The Messenger Vol. 47 No. 18 October 21, 2009

service

Anabaptist

The strengths and weaknesses of our terminology

personal

community

piety

Protestant

ďŹ rst-century

authority

and life

socially conscious

baptism

Lord

regeneration

worship

creed

Creator

Evangelical

will of God

discipleship

testament ethics

conversion martyr

Christ

missions

transformation

Bible

churches

atonement

volume 47, number 18 October 21, 2009

resurrection

justice

Jesus

obedience

beliefs

witness

peacemaking

a publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference

gospel

MESSENGER

THE

Christ-like

revival

a Reformation Sunday feature

www.emconf.ca/Messenger

editorials

Celebrating the Protestant Reformation

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ext year the Lutheran World Federation, according to an announcement at Mennonite World Conference’s general assembly, will not celebrate its 500th anniversary because of the Reformation’s divisiveness. This is unfortunate.

Yes, we can regret the fragmentation of the Christian Church into hundreds

We can regret the fragmentation of the Christian Church into hundreds of denominations, but this doesn’t mean we can dismiss Reformation history.

of denominations. Today there is much evidence of the Church recognizing that it is ultimately one: one Body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all (Ephesians 4:4-6). We can rejoice in the World Evangelical Alliance and Mennonite World Conference.

None of this means, though, that we can dismiss Reformation history.

The Protestant Reformation had many causes—theological, political, economic, the Renaissance. But a debate began about how Christ’s grace touches an individual, shapes a congregation, and establishes the Christian Church.

The Protestant Reformation saw

a return to a richer understanding of the Christian gospel. This is worth celebrating!

Perhaps the LWF’s choice is, in part, a response to its decision in 1999 to sign, with the Roman Catholic Church, a Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification (an action that not all Lutherans supported). If so, it is further evidence of how it was unwise to sign the statement.

One hopes the LWF will reconsider its decision. Celebrating the grace of Christ can be done openly, as my former professor Alvin Lewis once preached, without throwing stones at T the Roman Catholic Church. M Terry M. Smith

Keeping our grip on Scripture

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s we approach Reformation Sunday, we recall that imprisoned early Anabaptists sometimes amazed their interrogators with their knowledge of Scripture. Harold S. Bender has written that Menno Simons was saturated with Scripture.

What of Evangelical Anabaptists’ use of Scripture today?

Today fewer EMCers take their Bible to worship services. Frequently little Scripture is read at services (perhaps an opening verse or two, a brief reading of one passage, and a benediction).

Doctrinal preaching is frowned upon. Theology is considered too ab-

EDITOR Terry M. Smith tsmith@emconf.ca

ASSISTANT EDITOR Rebecca Roman

rroman@emconf.ca

Address changes and submissions to The Messenger should be sent to messenger@emconf.ca MESSENGER SCHEDULE: No. 20 – November 18 (copy due November 6)

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stract. Sermons are getting shorter. Bible paraphrases are read in public. All of this weakens the Scripture-based nature of our churches.

By keeping our grip on Scripture, we retain our grasp on the non-negotiable core of our Christian faith and on the Church’s mission.

By taking a personal Bible to a worship service, we remember at what great cost the translation, printing,

By taking a personal Bible to a worship service, we remember at what great cost the common ownership of the Scriptures has come to us.

THE MESSENGER is the publication of the Evangelical Mennonite Conference. It is available to the general public. Its purpose is to inform concerning events and activities in the denomination, instruct in godliness and victorious living, inspire to earnestly contend for the faith.

Letters, articles, photos and poems are welcomed. Unpublished material is not returned except by request. Views and opinions of writers are their own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Conference or the editors.

THE MESSENGER is published twice a month (once a month in July and August) by the EMC Board of Church Ministries, 440 Main St., Steinbach, Man. Subscriptions: Canadian subscriptions are $24 for one year, $44 for two years,

distribution, and common ownership of the Scriptures has come to us.

To strengthen our personal use of the Bible is to recall that the study, discernment, teaching, and application of Scriptural truths are corporate tasks. Such a duty is not to be left to paid clergy to whom we simply defer in matters of interpretation and application; this would be, in fact, a reversion to a pre-Reformation past.

This does not mean that we can simply rest in individual interpretation only: “my Bible says” or what “the Bible means to me.” This is far from what the Protestant Reformation T meant by “Scripture only.” M Terry M. Smith

$65 for three years (Manitoba residents add 7% PST); U.S. subscriptions are $30 for one year, $55 for two years, $82 for three years; all other countries are $45 for one year, $85 for two years, $125 for three years . Subscriptions are voluntary and optional to people within or outside of the EMC. Subscriptions are purchased by the Conference for members and adherents.

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MESSENGER

On-line edition available at www.emconf.ca/Messenger

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

letters ‘By His stripes we are healed’ I would like to thank Flo Friesen for her excellent look at the topic of Divine Healing in the September 16 issue of The Messenger. Some very good questions were raised.

I don’t think it was a coincidence that just a few days before we got our copy at home, my wife and I looked up the EMC position on healing. Perhaps the title of Article 7 should read Divine Suffering, seeing about two-thirds of it deals with that topic.

In my opinion, through Adam’s sin, what became “natural” for us now is pain, suffering, and death. Yes, God

can use these in “supernatural” ways to refine our faith, perfect our hope, wean us from sin, train us in holiness, and deepen our relationship with Jesus (see 1 Peter).

Through the second Adam, Jesus, we have the position and authority to take back that ground given away a long time ago. Yes, Flo, “by His stripes we are healed.”

Darrel Guenther Steinbach, Man.

writings shared Bernardine Plett

Laina, Betty Barkman (self-published, 2006). 260 pp., $13, ISBN 978-155-09150-4. Reviewed by Bernardine Plett, retired homemaker, minister’s wife, and part of Steinbach EMC.

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hat do you do when a story needs to be told, yet a family member cannot put down the words? Betty Barkman, wife of Pastor Leonard Barkman (Pansy Chapel), has creatively, and courageously, written the story of her mother-in-law Helena (Laina) Plett.

Laina is the story of a child born into a German Mennonite family in 1912, while focusing on her life from 1919 till the 1940s. It is, however, not only her story; it is equally the stories of her parents (called Pa and Ma).

Laina loved learning and experiencing new things.

Life was an adventure, especially in her early childhood. She was shy, but dependably cared for her younger siblings, even at seven. Her imagination and intuitive nature sometimes brought her into dark and depressing moods.

Laina’s first big adventure happened at

seven years old. The family moved west by wagon 20 miles, from Blumenhof to Landmark, Man., where they lived in primitive, near-pioneer conditions.

Laina gives us a glimpse of a beautiful relationship of a godly father to his wife and children. Her dad, David K. Plett, was of a cheerful nature, often whistling and singing at his work, positively affirming the children in their work on the farm and at school.

Pa became Laina’s hero. She worked alongside him, doing chores and field work.

Laina’s mother Elisabeth (Lees) was hard-working, rising to any emergency with a strong, steady hand. Her childhood was, however, insecure, and was the reason for dark moods and unwarranted anger. Lees’ mother Maria Esau (nee Unger) died when Lees was 11 months old.

Lees was brought up by her grandparents, who showed her much love.

Laina, openly told, is a clear example of how our everyday lives affect and influence our family and others around us.

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

Hey, Corey, thanks!

I wanted to thank you for your article in The Messenger (October 7 edition) on Berekah: a life of praise. It reinforced for me the absolute transforming power of a life of “lived thankfulness.”

I grew up with a dad who sometimes embarrassed me as a teenager because of his very overt and knee-jerk habit of spontaneously thanking God out loud for circumstances or events that were unremarkable and routine to me.

As an adult, however, I recognize how deeply his instincts have shaped my life into one of intentional thankfulness and I am very grateful for that heritage.

At the same time, I recognize how quick I can head “into the ditch” in my life as I experience successes, stresses, or failures which I naturally want to attribute to failings or strengths in me and/or the people around me.

Thank you for the reminder: “Giving thanks for the blessing of this day, for redemption, and for re-creation, all three, is an act of faith precisely because we see so much chaos all around us”!

Bruce Penner Steinbach, Man.

Article Correction In Corey Herlevsen’s Berekah: a life of praise (Oct. 7, 2009) the Hebrew lettering was inadvertently flipped in layout preparation.

Editor

Then her father John Esau left the family when Lees was 12 years old, and this made her feel unloved and insecure. She experienced depression at times.

Laina had an inner longing to know more about God, and it was through the example and help of her Pa and Ma that led her to experience the reality of God. Laina, openly told, is a clear example of how our everyday lives affect and influence our family and others around us.

It is a story of pioneer struggle and church life, of illness both physical and mental, and of Christ’s mysterious T grace scattered throughout. M

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regeneration

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Anabaptist

The strengths and weaknesses of our terminology

Evangelical The term evangelical, while associated with any number of reform movements in the history of Christianity, customarily refers to a modern phenomenon that emerged from various reforming streams in the 17th and 18th century, such as Puritanism, Pietism, Methodism, and the Great Awakening.

community

piety

witness

service

Protestant

ďŹ rst-century

authority

and life

socially conscious

personal

worship

t is common for Mennonites to identify themselves as Anabaptists and Evangelicals. This is certainly the kind of language that I have sometimes used to introduce the Mennonite faith perspective to others.

Shorthand descriptions of this nature can be useful in that they can effectively communicate to others the nature of our beliefs without us having to resort to long-winded explanations. Yet I suspect that using abbreviations to describe ourselves can also lead to considerable misunderstanding. The words we use may not always communicate accurately what we hope to bring across.

It is sometimes assumed, for instance, that Evangelicals are Christians that give special emphasis to the authority of Scripture, the centrality of Christ, the importance of having a conversion experience, cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus, and being committed to the ministry of evangelism.

While such a list of descriptions might aptly describe some of the primary characteristics of present-day mainstream evangelicalism in North America, it is questionable whether this is truly an adequate or complete description of the Evangelical tradition as it has expressed itself over time and around the world.

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gospel

conversion martyr

baptism

Lord

Creator

testament ethics

Evangelical

will of God

discipleship

transformation

Christian

resurrection

missions

atonement

Holy Spirit

evangelism

creed

churches

beliefs

Christ

obedience

peacemaking

Bible

Jesus

justice

Reformation Sunday

Christ-like

revival

Karl Koop, Ph.D.

To be sure these streams within Christianity which have evolved into the modern-day Evangelical movement have placed significant emphasis on the authority of Scripture, the centrality of Christ, a commitment to evangelism, and so on.

Yet as the movement has developed over time, it has also expressed itself in a variety of other ways, often including the social dimensions of the gospel message, such as the call to peace-making and living justly.

It is noteworthy that Evangelicals have often been at the forefront in fighting poverty, abolishing slavery, promoting education among the lower classes, and advocating for women’s rights.

The American Colonization Society founded by Evangelicals in the early nineteenth century, for example, was directly involved in buying slaves, setting them free and returning them to their African homeland.

The Great Awakening of the late eighteenth century, while associated with great emotional outbursts and a developing interest in personal inward piety, was instrumental in promoting women’s rights. The beginnings of the American feminist movement can be traced directly to socially conscious Evangelicals who were shaped by the religious revivalism of the time.

Most of us do not readily associate the Evangelical movement with social causes. There was certainly a time when I did not make this connection.

Then I began to pay attention to the various impulses that gave rise to modern Evangelicalism and I began to take notice of the way in which its current manifestations have shown an active interest in feeding the hungry, taking care of the sick, helping the homeless, and THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

promoting peace in areas of conflict.

Clearly Evangelicalism has been a movement that has strived to be faithful to all the various dimensions of the gospel message.

Anabaptist Turning to Anabaptism, here too we discover a tradition that is often misunderstood. Anabaptism is known for its emphasis on peace and justice issues, yet there is much more to the tradition than this. To be sure, the Anabaptists that emerged from the sixteenth-century Reformation placed great value on pacifism and many advocated for a greater level of justice in the realm of economics and politics.

This concern, however, was not driven, first of all, by human aspirations. The ethical impulse of Anabaptism was under-girded by a profound spirituality that was based on living “in Christ.” The emphasis on living peacefully and justly was the result of having abandoned selfish desires and yielding to the will of God. Anabaptists repeatedly spoke of the Christian life as an experience of regeneration and becoming more Christ-like, and even participating in the divine nature itself. They believed that this was possible through the power of the Holy Spirit. They routinely appropriated the language of rebirth, or new birth, with the assumption that the one who experienced conversion was a new creation. The church was viewed as a new reality because of the transforming nature of conversion.

Anabaptist martyrs did not willingly give up their lives for the sake of some social cause. Their readiness to die was a direct result of a profound inner spiritual awakening, and an inner transformation brought on by the transforming power of Christ’s atonement and the ongoing activity of the Holy Spirit.

I suspect that using abbreviations to describe ourselves can lead to considerable misunderstanding. The words we use may not always communicate accurately what we hope to bring across.

They wanted to be like Jesus, who emptied himself and abandoned everything as an act of obedience to God. And they understood their willingness to die as a missionary witness for the world to see.

Today, many Anabaptist Christians continue to believe that the Christian life is about being like Jesus, about attending to the inner as well as the outer dimensions of the spiritual life.

In fact, there seems to be a renewed interest among contemporary Anabaptists for the spiritual life that is focused on the worship of God, devotion to Christ, and attentiveness to the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit.

This seems to be coming at a time when there is also a renewed interest among evangelicals to understand the gospel in terms of discipleship, service, justice, and peace.

Developments Such developments beg the question as to whether using terms like Anabaptist and Evangelical together to describe our faith traditions is all that necessary. Do we really need to place these two terms together as a way of letting others know that our faith tradition is balanced or all-encompassing? Is it possible that these traditions stand on their own, needing no complimentary theological stream to offset presumed shortcomings?

Putting it this way, of course, makes it sound as though Anabaptists and Evangelicals have arrived at some level of self-sufficiency. Yet no tradition is truly self-sufficient and we can all surely learn from one another. Of course, even when we depend on each other, we are still in need of God’s grace.

That said, most of us choose specific ways to describe our spiritual home. For many Mennonites, Anabaptist is that kind of place because of all that tradition stands for.

For other Mennonites, the term Evangelical must be added because the denomination to which they belong has an important historical connection to the Evangelical movement, or their own experience has led them to want to identify with more than one religious culture.

Perhaps the term is also important because it highlights the importance of mission.

Whatever ways we choose to describe ourselves, we need to be mindful of the language that we employ.

There are, without question, some differences between historic Evangelicalism and Anabaptism. This is evident when one notices how the two have developed over the T centuries. But the commonalities are also striking. M Karl Koop is associate professor of history and theology at Canadian Mennonite University and the director of the MA programs in theological studies and Christian ministry. He is editor of Confessions of Faith in Anabaptism 1527-1660 (Kitchener: Pandora Press, 2006) and author of Anabaptist-Mennonite Confessions of Faith: The Development of a Tradition (Kitchener: Pandora Press, 2004).

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with our missionaries The Philippines/U.S.

Dining with heroes On September 25, 2009, we were privileged to dine with heroes, men and women who have served the Lord for most of their adult lives and now at retirement age continue to serve tirelessly as the Lord enables them.

Paul and Oreta Burnham arrived in the Philippines in May 1970 and, because of 39 years of faithful ministry, there is a thriving church in the Ibaloi tribe today.

Burnhams raised their five children in the tribe. Later four children and their spouses returned to continue their parents’ legacy.

Martin, their oldest son, gave his life for his Lord after he and Gracia spent a year in captivity in 2001. During that time, Paul and Oreta parented Martin’s three children in the U.S. Although retired from New Tribes Mission, Paul and Oreta travel to assist in Bible translation into the Ibaloi language and to reconnect with believers.

We have been friends with the Burnham family since our years in the Philippines and were delighted to hear they were visiting. We invited two other couples, along with the Burnhams, for a Filipino dinner.

We glimpsed what it will be like in glory when we sit at the marriage supper of the Lamb and feast with those who have come before us in the faith.

Edna and Jim Ferguson, Oreta and Paul Burnham, Monty and Kathy Rasmussen, Ellen Koop

Jim and Edna Ferguson retired from NTMA and live here in McNeal. Earlier, Jim was a crop duster pilot to support his family. After joining New Tribes Mission, he and another pilot were challenged to start a program to provide air support for missionaries serving in tribal locations.

They purchased their first airplane in 1969 and based it out of Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania. From July 1972 to April 1976, Jim served as the pilot for the program on the island of Luzon in the Philippines and provided Burnhams with service in and out of the Ibaloi tribe.

Upon returning to the U.S., Fergusons served in leadership with NTM Aviation in Nebraska and Arizona until retiring in April 2002.

Join with Christ in shaping our

world

Evangelical Mennonite Conference Board of Missions 204-326-6401 info@emconf.ca www.emconf.ca

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Monty and Kathie Rasmussen arrived in the Philippines in November 1970 with their four children; they served on both Palawan and Luzon until relocating to McNeal in 1986. Martin Burnham flew in and out of the tribe for years in Monty’s plane. He claimed Monty’s example challenged him to become a missionary pilot.

We met Monty and Kathie in May 1982 when we first arrived in the Philippines.

They have been dear friends and close associates ever since and we praise the Lord for their example. Although they are at retirement age, Monty works parttime in our engine shop and Kathie and I co-teach a student ladies’ class every Tuesday morning.

As we sat at dinner and listened to these six reminisce about early days in the Philippines, laughter sporadically erupted from the group. We glimpsed what it will be like in glory when we sit at the marriage supper of the Lamb and feast with those who have come before us in the faith.

The words of Steve Green’s song Find Us Faithful kept running through my mind: “Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.”

Ellen Koop Ellen and Phil Koop (Kleefeld) serve in administration with New Tribes Missions Aviation in McNeal, Arizona.

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with our missionaries Mexico

CME challenged to help the wounded The German Conferencia Misionera Evangelica (Evangelical Missionary Conference, CME) held its annual meeting on September 12–13, 2009, on the campus of Steinreich Bible School.

SBS is located near the centre of the state of Chihuahua. Family gathered from all the main points of the compass, the north and south, and the east and west. They gathered and in greater numbers than in previous years. Thanks go to God, our Father!

We were privileged to have EMC representatives Tim Dyck and Ken Zacharias and Jacob Friesen from the EMMC. Jacob was also our guest speaker for the weekend.

Our whole conference was blessed through the challenging messages brought by Mr. Friesen. Our Saturday

morning worship service was geared towards the youth. Worship was led by the El Valle youth worship team, and Jacob spoke out of Luke 12:13–21, a challenge “to hold onto the things that last.”

After the service the youth went to an outing at the gym in Camp 79. It was estimated that there were from 60 to 70 youth that participated in the event.

Youth, you are a generation that makes an impact now and in the future.

During the Saturday evening service Mr. Friesen spoke on who is our neighbour. This was a great challenge to step outside of our “shells” or the four walls of our sanctuaries, which culture, religion, and tradition have formed over or around us, to help the wounded in this world (Luke 10:25–37).

Sunday morning was another awesome message. God rejoices over the lost sinner when he is found. Likewise, the church should rejoice, instead of acting like the older son in Luke 15. The worship in both services was also meaningful, which was led by El Valle worship team.

John Froese President, CME

South Africa

Trials that come “Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed you will be strong in character and ready for anything” (James 1:2–4 NLT).

Pain and trials are labeled negative.

Things have been tough and it always seemed that if we would wait another week then there would be more good things to write about.

In some ways things do look brighter today than they have for a long time.

Besides, according to James, trials are investments that result in positive returns: joy, endurance, character!

Leaders of the Evangelical Church reported discussions with government over land title deeds. One involves a property that TEAM gave to the church back in the 70s. Documentation reveals that the church has legal permission to occupy the land, but there seems to be no deed that proves the land belongs to it. Will they have to give it up?

A donor shipped a container of used clothes to Mozambique to distribute among the needy. Expenses paid to release the container equaled the cost of getting it to Maputo. Thanks to the same donor, expenses were paid.

On September 3 we were traveling to Johannesburg when our vehicle’s engine blew its coolant. We were able to rent a car and continue with our itinerary, but tests on our vehicle revealed a crack requiring a new cylinder head.

We were having Leadership Team meetings when Joe’s family contacted us. Our dear brother, One of our associated schools, Durban Bible College, is husband, and father, Ben Reimer, severely short of instructors. Joe has stepped into that need had passed away at home in and is teaching a course, to an attentive 10 students, on Winnipeg, Man., from heart disease the church’s opportunities to minister to HIV/AIDS-related on September 11. After phone calls, challenges.

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

prayer, and delegating responsibility, we went home for the funeral and to be with family. We were gone for 10 days.

On July 16 Olga had a flare-up in her lower spine, which resulted in visits to doctors and a physiotherapist. Hip and leg pain related to lumbar spinal challenges were in her history, but she coped with treatment and exercise.

Now nothing brought relief. A specialist said surgery was the only answer. After prayer and deliberation we agreed and a lengthy insurance deliberation ensued.

Surgery was set for October 2. Then came Joe’s brother’s funeral, which we could go to with the airline’s wheelchair offer.

On our return, surgery happened on October 8 at Durban. Olga is wiped from everything, but surgery is behind us and we look forward to better days.

Please pray for Olga’s recovery. She was in to be in hospital for a week. It will be another five weeks at home before she can lift anything more than a utensil.

Yes, I am sharpening my housekeeping skills!

Joe Reimer Joe and Olga Reimer (Blumenort) serve with TEAM in South Africa and elsewhere in southern Africa.

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with our missionaries Canada

Missionary fellowship: who cares?

What do we do with our spiritual struggles? Who do we talk to when the going gets tough? How do we serve in the midst of spiritual dryness?

These and others were the questions that were addressed

by Daryl Climenhaga, our guest speaker at the EMC Missionary Fellowship at Ridgewood EMC, on Tuesday, September 8.

Dr. Climenhaga, the Associate Professor of Global Studies at Providence College and Seminary, shared his personal testimony of spiritual dryness and how the Lord led him through that difficult time. He went on to lead a discussion on things such as the difference between spiritual attack and depression, the value of peer support, and God’s healing hand through dreams and visions.

There were 24 missionaries in attendance during the afternoon session, which represented all our missionaries on Home Ministry Assignment this summer.

Incorporating this afternoon session into our existing format was quite useful, as it included a workshop and a small groups discussion time.

Another benefit was creating a safe place for workers to share current ministry concerns with one another with the purpose of imparting relevant solutions and supporting one another in prayer.

Beth Koehler, Kirsten Kroeker, and Lesley and Marianne Fast—specifically invited ahead of time to share—blessed us with stories of challenge, victory, and thanksgiving in the good times and the bad.

Several other missionaries also spoke of struggles they had faced or ways in which they had experienced the care of others, including that of fellow missionaries, home offices, national believers and friends, both Christians and non-believers alike.

Sixteen retired missionaries joined in for supper, served by several ladies from the host church. In total 59 people were in attendance, including staff and Board of Missions members.

After a time of worship through song, led by Darrel and Audrey Guenther, we were also encouraged by a devotional shared by Faith Krahn, a Board of Missions member. We ended our evening by mentioning items of need and concern

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Twenty-four missionaries attended the afternoon session.

Daryl Climenhaga, guest speaker, shared how the Lord led through a difficult time.

Kirsten Kroeker, Beth Koehler, and Marianne Fast were invited to share current ministry concerns during the afternoon session.

In the evening missionaries and Board of Missions staff and members gathered for worship, a devotional, and sharing and prayer. (photos by Gerald D. Reimer)

and then holding these people up in small group prayer.

It is our desire, as Board of Missions staff, to find creative and useful ways to care for our front-line missionaries. Our ongoing prayer is that they would go out in joy and be led forth in peace.

Gerald D. Reimer Gerald D. Reimer (Steinbach EFC) is Conference Youth Minister, and relates halftime to the EMC Board of Missions.

Ken Zacharias, a staff member relating to the Board of Missions, and John Bueckert, Board of Missions chair, spoke during the evening session.

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

with our churches

Diversity in the family They have become friends, Steinbach EMC (Man.): On in spite of the language barrier, Sunday, May 24, we had a “family with whom we can laugh or gathering” where we listened to share concerns, as extended the testimonies (or as Pastor family members in Colombia Garry Koop said, “spiritual continue to be in danger. Their autobiographies”) of three many expressions of thanks couples who had requested to God for bringing them to membership transfers to our our country and safety has church and three young people reminded us of how fortunate who had decided to follow the we are to live in Canada and that Lord in baptism. we have the privilege of sharing Every one of us has a unique God’s goodness with them. story of the work of God in our Children are always welcome lives, and the only way we will Our Colombian family: Katerine, Marco, Cristian and Amparo. in our church family as well, and hear these stories is if we share them. We were blessed as they shared After several months of anticipation one of the more recent additions comes their spiritual journeys, their joys and and preparation, in May we welcomed a all the way from Ethiopia. Leonard and sorrows, their defeats and victories, refugee family from Colombia: Amparo, Christine Dueck and their two children and the different ways in which God is her two grown sons, Marco and Cristian, welcomed a beautiful little daughter, continuing to work in their lives. and a daughter-in-law, Katerine. As a Gracia, into their family in July.

God loves variety and diversity—and It was interesting to note the different church, we have agreed to sponsor countries that were mentioned— them for a year, through MCC’s Refugee so should we! Whether we are from Germany, Ireland, Colombia, Brazil, Germany, Peru, Brazil, Ireland, Canada— Sponsorship Program. places where they had either been born This family is gifted artistically, and Ethiopia or Canada, male or female, and raised or had served in short-term most of them have a good education. They young or old, we are all one in Christ and missions. Each story was different, have all found jobs and are also enrolled part of His family around the world.

Martha Kroeker showing the variety of ways in which the in English classes. Our congregation has Lord draws people to Himself, transforms been enriched by their presence. their lives, and uses them in His service.

The following Sunday we had the joy of accepting Rob and Sharon Steeves, Dean and Kaylene Buhler, and Michael and Melissa Thiessen into our church family. We also welcomed the three young people who were baptized, Sandra Heilmann, Adam Friesen and Nikki Penner.

God gives different gifts to different people, and these new members have already blessed us in a variety of ways with their gifts, serving in the music ministry, participating in Vacation Bible New members at SEMC: Michael amd Melissa Thiessen, Rob and Sharon Steeves, and Dean and Kaylene Buhler.

School and Bible camps, and just by their presence.

Retreat brings worshipful reflection Fish Creek (Calgary, Alta.): Once again Fish Creek Christian Fellowship embarked on our annual church retreat weekend. This year our guest speaker was Peter Hill. Along with his wife, Danielle, the two led us in meaningful worship and song experiences.

Peter Hill grew up on the east coast of Canada. They currently make their home in Calgary. Peter began his involvement with music ministry at the age of eleven and has cultivated a heart desire for authentic worship ever since. He travels

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

across Canada speaking to churches and leads training seminars on music and worship. He has a passion to see people equipped and encouraged in their faith, in their abilities and in their ministries.

Peter is also the author of The Process of Purity. Throughout the weekend, he spoke to us about living our lives as an act of worship. He says, “Winning some of our battles involves our active participation in the starving of our sinful nature.”

How true this is! Romans 12:1 says,

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Meanwhile, our pastor Scott Koop has begun teaching a series on the book of Acts, which is equally inspiring.

Joyce Landis

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with our churches

VBS held, pastor sought Creighton, Sask.: Up to 34 children registered throughout the Vacation Bible School held at Northern Fellowship Chapel from August 17–21.

The children were occupied with music, stories, games, snacks and crafts. Song leader Deb Odegaard and story teller Sandra Schroeder kept the children’s interest. Skit characters (puppets Froggie and Susie) led the children in a variety of adventures as they went Searching for Treasure, which was the theme for the week.

Jeffery Odegaard and Henry Rempel were able skit characters and helpers.

Margaret Buie helped to lead the singing and work with the youngest class.

Margaret Moorhead kept the children fed and happy with snacks and Lorne Moorhead adeptly guided the older class in discussion and games.

Coordinator Janice Imrie worked with adults and children during the week. The program was held on Friday with many parents in attendance.

Northern Fellowship Chapel shares leadership with Cornerstone Community Church (Mennonite Brethren) in Flin Flon, Man. Pastor Scott Koop (and Natalie, Spencer and Marissa) was officially finished at the end of July and has moved to Selkirk. We miss them so much. We have an active joint pastoral search committee to fill Scott’s position.

Some of the scholars at VBS.

Cornerstone also had its 25th anniversary on August 28–30.

On this anniversary weekend, Northern Fellowship hosted a breakfast on Sunday, August 30, for pastors Scott and Natalie and family, Dale and Marge Warkentin (Carmen, Man.) and Ted and Mary Goossen (Thompson, Man.).

Northern Fellowship Chapel is also hosting the EMC Region 3 Ministerial meeting on Monday, September 14, 2009.

Janice Imrie

Sandra Schroeder guides during VBS.

Trio baptized at Taber Taber, Alta.: On June 28, 2009, we had three more people join our membership with baptism by immersion. It was such a blessing to hear the testimonies of these three young people. It is just so amazing to see how God works in each one of us differently and the desires He puts on our hearts to follow Him. Eva Koethler

Helen Reimer is baptized with senior pastor Dave Wiebe and youth pastor Dave Sawatzky nearby.

10

Youth pastor Dave Sawatzky (left) and senior pastoral couple Audrey and Dave Wiebe (right) stand with baptismal candidates Pancho Sawatzky, Helen Reimer, and Lorena Enns.

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

with our churches

Celebration Sunday at CBF of being a leader there.

Swan River, Man.: On a Kevin and Carolyn Penner’s beautiful Sunday evening, two sons played music once many people gathered more with their Dad before at the home of Don and heading off to Bible College in Darlene Buhler to celebrate Steinbach. They both spent the events of the summer. time working in children’s Celebration Sunday began camps this summer. several years ago as a way to There were teens who encourage youth and adults have been to camp for several who gave their summers to years and for others it was a God to serve in camps and new and exciting experience. other summer missions’ Some women shared about projects.

Melissa Buhler cooking at camp and This year Melissa Buhler was home for three weeks from Los enjoying the fellowship of other women Angles where she serves with YWAM who worked in the same kitchen.

Pastor John Reimer talked about and shared with us the highs and lows his cycling for camps with his nephews out West. Other people shared about their family reunions, vacation trips, and meeting new people.

Of course, there were prayer requests as well. As night was falling, the campfire was lit and coffee cups were refilled. It was a good time.

Betty Warkentin Many people gathered at Don and Darlene Buhler’s home.

People come and go Morris, Man.: What a wonderful God we have! After a long cold and rainy summer, He has given us wonderful warm and dry autumn days. The farmers are grateful for some good harvesting weather.

The activities in our church included Vacation Bible School with more than 100 children attending and many making decisions to follow Jesus. The Sunday School picnic was enjoyed at the Rosenort Arena, beginning with the morning worship service, a barbecue for lunch, and lots of activities before watermelon was served.

It was special for us to wish interim pastoral couple Mel and Mary Koop congratulations on their 50th wedding anniversary on August 16. We said goodbye to Ed and Dorothy Thiessen with a few group farewell parties. They have moved to Three Hills, Alta., to manage seniors’ facilities.

Dwane and Charlene Wiebe and Brad and Cheryl Klippenstein were welcomed into our fellowship with Mel Koop officiating. On June 7 we were also blessed to have six young people follow the Lord in baptism with Mel Koop officiating.

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

On September 6 we held promotion Sunday for the new Sunday School year. Nathan Bartel, our superintendent, led in a prayer of dedication for all the teachers before each one led the youngsters to their new classes.

Lorraine Loewen

Kevin Penner (right) and sons

only $2.50 each!

Pastors, youth/adult Sunday School teachers, small group leaders: Have you tried Follow Me yet?

This 13-lesson study booklet is written

by EMCers for EMCers. Contact the Conference office to get copies: 204-326-6401 rroman@emconf.ca

New members: Dwane and Charlene Wiebe, interim pastor Mel Koop, and Cheryl and Brad Klippenstein.

Baptized were Caitlyn Nickel, Caleb Siemens, Marshall Janzen, Leah Bartel, Marilyn Janzen, and Ryan Tate.

11

pictures of God Joanna Plett

J

Investing in the Upside Down Kingdom

ust a few blocks from our house stands a low, properly. We seek to aid society in disposing of waste dilapidated old building. It used to be a factory completely and to pipe in fresh, living water. or warehouse, I presume, but looks like it hasn’t The underground also has many stories to tell that been used recently. In front of the building is the buildings above don’t necessarily reveal. Toronto a flashy new sign advertising Up Side Down Condos, was originally built in a region covered with rivers. complete with directions to parking in the back.

The majority of those rivers were dammed, drained, or If I were searching for a condominium, the popular piped through underground drainage to Lake Ontario. high rise housing choice for young adults in Toronto, Today, Toronto still has many patches of soft or I would certainly not visit this location. Based on its marshy land, which are deemed unsafe for residential exterior, the only way this place could fit the description development. Some of these properties, however, are of a condo would be if it were not only taken over by municipal governments upside down, but also underground. to build schools and other public As Christians, we are called buildings.

First impressions do not compel me to invest time, never mind money, into As Christians, we serve underground not only to invest in, but to this property. as watchpersons of the foundations move into, an Upside Down of the city. We are called to watch for I think non-Christians often look at Christianity the way I look at cracking ideological foundations and Kingdom. the Upside Down Condo. Despite for public policies and values built flashy signs and decent advertising, on marshy ground. Underground, we economically driven investors and culturally driven serve as the maintenance people, plumbers, and repair individuals are rarely drawn to a faith driven lifestyle. people of society.

The Upside Down Condo can’t compete with high rise Many may pass by with barely a glance, seeing only condominiums on the harbour front and hardly appear dilapidated warehouses of questionable investment to be a lucrative long-term investment. value. Yet the signs keep inviting them to enter the As Christians, we are called not only to invest in, but Upside Down Kingdom. Those who enter should find to move into, an Upside Down Kingdom. God challenges themselves swept into a community at the core of us to live with upside down values, asking us to make society, cleansing corruption, repairing foundations, long-term investments into the people we encounter and piping living water into it through and the communities we live in. We sacrifice time and every accessible tap and T money, not for our own future returns, but for the shower. M ) a Plet t Jo ann y growth of the kingdom. b to ( pho The Upside Down Kingdom is not only upside down in values, but also operates underground.

God has commissioned very few of us to be towering high rises, commanding the skyline of our societies. He has called most of us to be underground in our communities.

The underground may not be a fun place to live, but it is essential to any city.

The veins of the city run underground, regulating the health and cleanliness of the people through sewers, waterworks, and drainage.

As preservers of society, Christians are to help these amenities function 12

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

EMC and

Statement of Faith Church Practices A 25-part series

Ron Penner

The Board of Leadership and Outreach has invited EMC pastors and other leaders to reflect on the meaning of our Statement of Faith and Church Practices. These writings are intended to inform and to invite conversation.

In the end, this 25-part series might be published as a booklet. Have you heard a sermon on these articles? Encourage the preacher to forward the material to The Messenger.

9. THE STATE (abridged) We believe that God has instituted human government.

We also believe this arrangement of government includes two basic functions: directing the interaction of society and serving as God’s agent of wrath of punishment.

We should determine all matters concerning the Christian and the state by carefully interpreting the Scriptures with a deep sensitivity to the moral problems involved (Matthew 4:8–10; 5:39–48; Luke 4:5–8; John 12:31; 16:11; 18:36; Acts 4:19; 5:29; Romans 12–14; 1 Timothy 2:1–3; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13–17; 1 John 5:19; Revelation 13).

Church Practices Article 9: The State

F

or us today, as also for the early Anabaptists, this issue separates us from some other Christians. In the 16th century, some reformers argued for a state-church society while the Anabaptists insisted on the separation of church and state. The position one adopts has implications for how one relates to the state today.

This article underscores the clear affirmation of the state as a divinely ordained institution. In Romans 13, the Bible states God’s purpose for the state is to be his agent in maintaining law and order generally and the punishment of evildoers specifically. There are other passages that support this view.

Our Church Practices emphasizes that we are to be citizens who are law-abiding and submissive to the laws of this land and to respect the state’s God-given authority.

However, though our view of the state is generally positive, there are limits to our allegiance. Our primary allegiance is to Christ and his kingdom and when the state enters the realm that belongs to Christ, we are clear that the separation of church and state has been violated.

Can citizens in the kingdom of God participate in government? Vote?

Become members of various levels of government?

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

“My Kingdom is not of this world,” Christ declared emphatically (John 18:36) and when Satan offered the world to him in his temptation in the wilderness from a high mountain (Matthew 4:8-10), Jesus rejected it totally.

Disciples of Christ adopt the same mindset, since we “have passed from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of his beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13).

This article is important because we do not always recognize the radical difference between these two kingdoms. In this world, the government’s mandate is to protect its citizens, exact justice, punish evildoers, and maintain law and order by means of the power of the police force, the judicial system, and, in some cases, the military. Hallmarks of the Kingdom of God, on the other hand, are love, peace, gentleness, grace, and forgiveness.

The Church is the central agency of God to demonstrate and proclaim this alternative kingdom in this world.

• Where do the values of the two kingdoms clash most frequently?

• Can citizens in the kingdom of God participate in government? Vote? Become members of various levels of government? Pay all taxes?

• Since the state uses force to enforce laws, can a pacifist Christian join the police force?

• How can we respect the state and yet be T faithful to Christ? M Ron Penner (Braeside) recently served as EMC moderator.

13

in memory

DARRELL BRAUN 1960–2009 Darrell Braun was born on June 9, 1960, firstborn to Menno and Lucy Braun of Landmark, Man. He passed away at the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre on Friday morning, June 26, 2009, after collapsing meters from the finish line at the Manitoba Marathon the previous Sunday morning.

He leaves to mourn his sudden passing his wife Jolyn, two daughters Rochelle and Jaclyn, two sons Alek and Dustin, his mother Lucy, his sister Crystal, his brothers Russell (and Sarah) and Trevor (and Sheila), plus nieces and nephews, and all of Jolyn’s family as well as many friends and relatives. He was predeceased by his father, Menno Braun, in 1994.

Darrell grew up and lived near Landmark all his life. Horses were a deep part of who he was, and he had a gift of relating with them and training them.

Darrell farmed with his family—first with his dad and brothers, and then with his children and employees. Though farming wasn’t always easy, he enjoyed his work.

Darrell was a man of integrity, humility, and compassion. He knew how to listen and how to love. Darrell’s devotion to Jolyn is something the family will always cherish. Darrell and Jolyn found deep joy in each other and in their shared interests.

Darrell also pursued relationships with each of his children. Darrell and Alek enjoyed farming together; Darrell took joy watching Alek play soccer.

Darrell and Rochelle shared a passion for horses and Darrell was thrilled about her latest addition to her dog family, a collie named Majesty.

Darrell and Jaclyn loved to run together. Daily they would discuss race times, and their training schedule for the next race. They planned to run Boston together. Darrell was excited about Dustin’s interest in ball. He practiced with him, made a lot of effort to drive him to training, and the two of them enjoyed a special week of ball in Tennessee recently.

Our family’s farming and homeschooling lifestyle lent itself to a sense of togetherness and provided opportunity to work through the challenges of relationship, for which we are so grateful. Darrell was devoted to His Maker, and had much influence on us.

Similarly, Darrell cared for others, including his church family at Prairie Grove Fellowship. He took time to build connection with people, and was often found in the foyer listening and encouraging.

The viewing service for Darrell was held on June 29, 2009, at Birchwood Funeral Home. The funeral was held at Blumenort EMC the following day, with burial at Pansy Chapel. The family thanks you for your support, and welcomes your continued prayers. We also appreciate any memories you have of Darrell.

Darrell often prayed for others, that their faith in God would increase. May ours do so! Although we are shocked by his sudden departure, and don’t want to live without him, we find some comfort in the fact that he now knows Love completely, and he is running five-minute miles on streets of gold.

His Family

25th Annual EM Cup Hockey Tournament November 13–15, 2009 T. G. Smith Centre Steinbach, Man. For information, contact Colin Loewen 204-346-1380 18 teams expected!

14

coming events October 15–November 8 The Story and Song Tour World Vision Humourist Adrian Plass, Musician Glen Soderholm 17 cities, B.C. to Maritimes Talking, humour, storytelling, music, worship, hope www.storyandsong.ca

October 31 The Great Emergence: How Christianity is Changing and Why Phyllis Tickle Booth College Winnipeg, Man. $75, $25 seniors/students www.faithforum.ca

November 5–8 Business as a Calling 2009 New Frontiers: New Solutions San Jose, California businessasacalling.org

November 7 New Songs for Worship IV Dr. Christine Longhurst and others Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg, Man. www.cmu.ca

November 8 Peace Sunday Your congregation MCC Canada canada.mcc.org/peacesunday iamrevolting.org

November 8 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church Free 2009 resource kit Persecuted, Not Abandoned www.idop.ca

November 14 Meetiing MCC 2009 Eden High School St. Catherines, Ont. mcc.org/ontario 905-646-3161 519-745-8458

November 20–22 IMPACT: Youth discipleship weekend Finding Your Identity Speaker: Kent Martens Steinbach Bible College Steinbach, Man. 800-230-8478 www.sbcollege.ca

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

shoulder tapping Wymark EMC, a country church located 20 miles southeast of Swift Current, Sask., is accepting applications for lead pastor. We aim to be a friendly, family-welcoming church body of 70 to 90 people, and seek a pastor who can encourage us by word and example to grow to maturity in Christ. Enquiries can be directed to the Pastoral Search Committee at 306-773-9089 (leave a message) or funkfarm@ gmail.com (Paul Funk).

La Crete Christian Fellowship, in the northwest corner of Alberta, is looking for a full-time youth pastor to be a part of our pastoral team.

LCCF’s service to God is based on core values: a commitment to worship, discipleship, teaching of God’s Word, and reaching our community and world with the gospel. We are a vibrant church of about 350 regular attendees who desire to spread the Word through a variety of ministries.

The youth pastor will direct the youth leadership team in implementing our vision of helping our youth establish and strengthen their personal connection to Jesus Christ.

Applicants are to be a disciple of Jesus Christ who is a willing and teachable leader; a person whose love for the Lord is reflected in their ability to work well with others.

Contact us for details. Call Mike Schellenberg at 780-841-9376 or e-mail lccfc@ telus.net.

Pelly Fellowship Chapel (EMC) seeks a youth worker or couple to develop a program for youth and junior youth. PFC is a small church in the village of Pelly, located in central Sask., close to the Manitoba border.

Submit resume to Pastor John Froese, Box 70, Pelly, SK S0A 2Z0. Phone 306-595-2074. E-mail pastor@pellyfellowship.com.

Morris Fellowship Chapel (EMC), located in Morris, Man., is looking for a fulltime pastor for a congregation of about 120.

Previous pastoral experience and leadership abilities are assets. For job description and information, please call Brian Klassen at 204746-8102.

North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church in Winnipeg, Man., is looking for a children’s ministry director. The children’s director, who will focus on visioning and implementing a Christ-centred children’s program, will be an integral part of the pastoral leadership team.

The children’s director is a half-time position.

For an applicant who also has a vision for small groups ministry, consideration will be given for a full-time position including both ministry responsibilities. NKMB is a multi-generational congregation of nearly 600 members with many young families. Inquiries and resumes may be sent to: Search Committee, NKMB,

THE MESSENGER October 21, 2009

Full text of ads available at www.emconf.ca/service.htm 1315 Gateway Rd., Winnipeg MB R2G 1P2 or email: brigittep@nkmb.org.

Continental Mission in Thompson, Man., needs a general director. This is an executive position. Qualifications for this position includes ministry experience, and an ability to lead and challenge missionaries in various ministries. A knowledge of the Word and a walk with the Lord are essential.

An evangelical ministry, Continental Mission (started in the 1940s) is involved in evangelism, church planting, camping, and drop-in ministries among First Nations people, mostly in northern Manitoba. The director will need to live in Thompson. Experience in working with Aboriginal people is an asset.

Send your resume to the chairman of the board: Ruben Goertzen, Box 57, Ashern, MB R0C 0E0, e-mail rgoertz@mts.net, phone 204768-2455. Or call the interim director, Bill Penner, at 204-778-8771 for information.

Mennonite Foundation, a donor-advised charitable foundation (est. 1973) with 17 employees and an operating budget of $1.9 million, seeks an executive director. The director is responsible to the board and will provide strategic leadership, directing and managing the overall operation. The candidate must be a church member in one of MFC’s six supporting conferences.

MFC promotes financial stewardship from a Christian perspective, creates opportunities for people to be generous with their financial resources, provides stewardship education for churches and members, is committed to socially responsible investing, and provides loans to constituent churches and related charities.

We are a growing and dynamic organization with over $100 million under management.

The head office is in Winnipeg, Man., with four other offices across Canada.

MFC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Resumes should be submitted to Personnel Committee, MFC, 121325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4J6; edsearch@mennofoundation.ca.

Rainbow Christian School, in Vanderhoof, BC, seeks a principal.

RCS is a growing K–8 Christian professional learning community and has been in operation for 20 years. It is a classified Group 1 Independent School and currently has a staff of six and an enrollment of about 80 students.

Applications must include: resume, three references (including a pastor’s), transcripts, BCCT certificate, statement of faith, philosophy of Christian education.

The principal is a full-time position (.6 admin. and .4 teaching).

Send a cover letter, resume, philosophy of Christian education with statement of faith.

Rainbow Christian School Search Committee, Box 710, 2994 Burrard Ave., Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0; ph: 250-567-3127; fax: 250-567-3167; e-mail: rcschool@telus.net.

Gruthal Bergthaler Mennonite Church is prayerfully seeking a senior pastor who has a heart for people and is community outreach minded.

We are an evangelical church located in Grunthal, Man., 45 minutes southeast of Winnipeg, and 20 minutes southwest of Steinbach. The town consists of about 1,000 people and is supported by a strong farming community. The church is multi-generational, with a core of middle-aged families, a strong youth program run by a full-time youth pastor, and a strong Sunday school program.

We seek a pastor who has the heart of a shepherd and a desire to see our church grow through reaching the lost and investing in the church’s people. He should have strong preaching and teaching skills. The candidate must have a Bible college degree. Some pastoral experience is preferred. He must be in agreement with our constitution and statement of faith.

Anyone who possesses these qualifications and is interested in this position can forward their resume, along with references, to the following address: Grunthal Bergthaler Church, Box 70, Grunthal, MB R0A 0R0, Attn: Elder Board; or e-mail gbmcleadelder@mts. net.

Youth For Christ in MacGregor, Man., is looking for a director. The job involves giving overall leadership to YFC ministries in Macgregor and Gladstone, its staff and its ministry; vision crafting, ministry development, staff/volunteer care and development, community/church relations, fundraising, evaluation. Contact: yfcmacgregor@mts.net for more information.

Fire at Sioux Valley On Thursday, October 8, 2009, the building of the Reserve Fellowship Chapel at Sioux Valley, Man., was destroyed by fire. The building was insured and the congregation is interested in rebuilding or replacing the facility (likely next spring). If anyone knows of a church building available to be moved, or work crews available to help in construction, please contact the EM Conference office. Pray for this small but resilient congregation.

Ward Pakrinson

15

kids’ corner Loreena Thiessen

D

Be thankful!

o like to receive gifts? Of course you do. On special days, your birthday, Christmas Day, you expect gifts.

On those days it is the custom to give and receive gifts. It’s exciting. It’s special.

You remember to say “Thank you!” The giver expects it. They wait until you say it: “Thank you!”

It’s the right thing to do.

But there are other kinds of gifts. Not all gifts come wrapped up and appear only on special days. Some gifts you may not notice at all. You enjoy them but you don’t realize they are gifts. What are these gifts?

One is good health.

“How is good health a gift?” you ask. “Either I have it, or I don’t. At times I may have the flu.”

You’re right. And it’s not a choice; you don’t choose to have the flu. Everyone wants to be healthy and feel strong, but you can’t choose that either. It is a gift you have been given.

What about safety? You feel safe when you are in your home. Your parents protect you. They do this by providing a warm and sturdy house for your family.

Your house protects you from the cold in winter and the heat in summer. In it you are safe; no one comes in unless you let them in. Your home and your parents are gifts to you to keep you safe.

What about school? Is school a gift?

“I have to go to school,” you say. “How is school a gift?”

Think about it like this. Many children in the world who want to learn and study can’t; there is no school for them, or they can’t go even if there is one.

There may be a fee they can’t pay for books or a uniform. Some children have to work to make a bit of money to buy food for the family instead of going to school. The chance to go to school is a gift not everyone has.

Can you sing or play the flute well? Are you able to explain how something works or a math problem to a friend? Can you cheer someone up if they are sad or disappointed?

Do you happily take care of your pet? Give him food and water and take him out if needed? Do you like to

PAGE 16

play with your baby brother or sister when your mother is busy?

You may think you just like to sing, or help, or explain a problem, and do it easily. These are abilities you have been given. And abilities are gifts.

Who has given you these gifts?

“Every good and every perfect gift…comes down from (God) the Father of lights,” says James 1:17.

By saying “Thank you!” for these you recognize God as the giver. You remind yourself that God has given you T these gifts. M

2 4

An Activity to Sing

Thank you for

sum - mer

fun

and

Thank you for

cool - ing

win - ter’s

Thank you for

friends and

sun - shine

2 4 snow

2 4 fam - i

-

ly

2 4 With whom to share what I

have and

know

THE MESSENGER Evangelical Mennonite Conference 440 Main Street Steinbach, MB R5G 1Z5 Publications Mail Agreement #40017362 PAP Registration #9914