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An ancient honor roll How should Christians treat animals in research? Congenital Christianity

3 Volume 26 REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES EAST-CENTRAL AFRICA DIVISION Private Bag, Mbagathi, 00503, Nairobi, KENYA CONTENTS Andrew Mutero [email protected] Magulilo Mwakalonge mwakalongem@ecd. adventist.org ESSAYS EURO-ASIA DIVISION An ancient honor roll Krasnoyarskaya Street 3, 107589 Moscow, 5 RUSSIAN FEDERATION When God names a person to the honor roll of the righteous, He Vladimir Tkachuk [email protected] recognizes a life of trusting God and His Word, no matter what. Kasap Gennady [email protected] by Jo Ann Davidson INTER-AMERICAN DIVISION P.O. Box 830518, Miami, FL 33283-0518, USA How should Christians treat animals in Gamaliel Florez [email protected] 9 Benjamín Carballo [email protected] research? INTER-EUROPEAN DIVISION In doing scientific research, we must not forget the domain of our Schosshaldenstrasse 17, 3006 Bern, stewardship so as to move away from procedures that cause pain SWITZERLAND Barna Magyarosi barna.magyarosi@eud. and suffering in animals. We can and must aspire to a higher level of adventist.org responsibility to God and the rest of His creation. Stephan Sigg [email protected] by Mark F. Carr NORTH AMERICAN DIVISION 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Congenital Christianity Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600, USA 13 Larry Blackmer [email protected] If your religious experience is dry and barren, if you are working hard to keep James Black [email protected] up an outward Adventist appearance without the power of Adventism, if you Gary Councell [email protected] are busy for the Lord while feeling empty inside, if you feel as if your path NORTHERN ASIA-PACIFIC DIVISION in Christianity and Adventism was predetermined for you by a genealogical P.O. Box 43, Koyang Ilsan 411-600, KOREA Chek Yat Phoon [email protected] heritage, this article is for you: a cure for congenital Christianity. Nak Hyujg Kim [email protected] by David Kim SOUTH AMERICAN DIVISION Caixa Postal 02600, Brasilia, 70279-970 DF, BRAZIL Edgard Luz [email protected] Areli Barbosa [email protected] DEPARTMENTS SOUTH PACIFIC DIVISION Locked Bag 2014, Wahroonga, N.S.W. 2076, AUSTRALIA EDITORIAL LOGOS Ken Weslake [email protected] 3 Organizing for mission 23 Lost and found Nick Kross [email protected] by Lisa M. Beardsley-Hardy by John Wesley Taylor V and Miriam SOUTHERN AFRICA-INDIAN OCEAN Louise Taylor DIVISION PROFILE P. O. Box 4583 Rietvalleirand 0174, SOUTH 18 Nathalie Walther FIRST PERSON AFRICA Interview by Lorena Mayer 27 Be still and know Ellah Kamwendo [email protected] by Joy Devaraj Busi Khumalo [email protected] BOOKS Divinas maravillas: Evidencias FOR YOUR SOUTHERN ASIA DIVISION 22 P. O. Box 2, HCF Hosur, 635 110 Tamil Nadu, de diseño y planificación [Divine INFORMATION INDIA Wonders: Evidence of design and 30 Universities Nageshwara Rao gnageshwarrao@sud-adventist. planning] org by Gerald E. Vyhmeister 34 A look at the 60th General Mohan Bhatti [email protected] Reviewed by Silvia Schimpf- Conference Session SOUTHERN ASIA-PACIFIC DIVISION Torreblanca by Wilona Karimabadi P.O. Box 040, 4118 Silang, Cavite, PHILIPPINES Lawrence Domingo [email protected] Jobbie Yabut [email protected] TRANS-EUROPEAN DIVISION 119 St. Peter’s St., St. Albans, Herts, AL13EY, ENGLAND Daniel Duda [email protected] Paul Tompkins [email protected] WEST-CENTRAL AFRICA DIVISION 22 Boîte Postale1764, Abidjan 22, IVORY COAST Chiemela Ikonne [email protected] N. John Enang [email protected]

2 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 EDITORIAL This international journal of faith, Organizing for mission thought, and action is published two to three times a year in five parallel editions (English, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish) by the Committee on Adventist Ministry to College and University Students (AMiCUS) of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Volume 26, Number 3 Copyright © 2014 by the AMiCUS It happens every quinquennium. Before I came to work at the General Committee. All rights reserved. Conference, I had never used that word, not even in a game of Scrabble. A colleague Dialogue affirms the fundamental beliefs quipped that the process surely must have the leading of the Holy Spirit, as world of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and leaders of the church are elected without benefit of job descriptions or resumés. But supports its mission. The views published in it’s not as it might seem. Representing a membership of 18.5 million in 216 of the this journal, however, are the independent 237 countries and territories recognized by the United Nations, around 2,600 dele- thoughts of the authors. gates will gather in San Antonio, Texas, from July 2 to 11, 2015. Together, they will Editorial Board affirm the church’s faith and mission, receive reports from the 13 world divisions of Editor-in-Chief Lisa M. Beardsley-Hardy the church, elect global leadership for the next quinquennium, and vote changes to Editors John M. Fowler, John W. Taylor V Managing Editor Susana Schulz the constitution, fundamental beliefs, and church manual. All this and more occurs International Editions Susana Schulz within 10 days of meetings. International Copy Editors I can’t help reflecting on the events of the last session in Atlanta, Georgia. That’s Monique Lemay (French) when I was elected as the first female director of the Department of Education Roberto Iannò (Italian) Karina Carnassale Deana (Portuguese) in the history of the church. No one could have been more surprised than me. Susana Schulz (Spanish) Moments after the election, a dear colleague enthusiastically said, “You are the right Designer Glen Milam man for the job!” and we both laughed. Editorial Correspondence But it was serious business when I appeared before the Nominating Committee Dialogue to explain what the Department of Education would need to do and what quali- 12501 Old Columbia Pike fications were needed for associates in the department. Rather than seeking to Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600 U.S.A. Telephone 301-680-5073 represent the world field, the emphasis was on the capacity to serve the world field. Fax 301-622-9627 Qualifications included experience in two or more regions, language proficiency, E-mail [email protected] an earned doctorate, and academic content expertise. Speeches (including my own) AMiCUS Committee were made at the microphones about one candidate or another. Then I watched Chair Armando Miranda the bar graphs rise on the screen for various names as the Nominating Committee Vice Chairs Lisa M. Beardsley-Hardy, voted electronically. I contacted each leading nominee, and only after the individual Gilbert Cangy, Gary R. Councell Secretary Jiwan S. Moon consented to be considered could the world delegates make the final decision. At the Members Mario Ceballos, Lyndelle upcoming General Conference Session, they will use electronic devices to vote, but Chiomenti, Ganoune Diop, Falvo Fowler, in Atlanta votes on the main floor were by means of bright yellow cards. I’ll never Hudson Kibuuka, Linda Koh, Kathleen forget the flush of yellow as delegates voted their conscience. Kuntaraf, Faith-Ann McGarrell, Derek Morris, Álvaro Ordoñez, Ronald Pickell, Eliann The General Conference Session is like a camp meeting on steroids: the best Reinhardt, Roy Ryan, Susana Schulz, John W. music from around the world, inspiring sermons, colorful national costumes, happy Taylor, Clinton Wahlen, Thomas Wetmore. reunions in scores of languages, whispered prayers in as many, educational and Circulation Inquiries should be entertaining exhibits, and the largest Sabbath school and worship service one can addressed to the regional representative experience this side of heaven. But what impresses me most is how we vote the busi- located in the area where the reader resides. ness of the church: policies that coordinate our work, doctrine, weighty matters See names and addresses on page 2. such as whether women may be ordained to gospel ministry, and the quinquennial Subscriptions US $13 per year (three election of leadership and personnel for a global work. issues, airmail). See order form on page 6 Ellen White wrote, “God has ordained that the representatives of His church for details. from all parts of the earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have Web site http://dialogue.adventist.org authority. The error that some are in danger of committing is in giving to the mind Dialogue has received correspondence from and judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority readers in 120 countries around the world. and influence that God has vested in His church, in the judgment and voice of the

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 3 General Conference assembled to plan that the worship offered will gladden for the prosperity and advancement of the heart of God. May the theme for His work.”* this global gathering be our hope and For more than 150 years, these special prayer for the days to come: “Arise! meetings have served to keep a global, Shine! Jesus is coming!” growing, multinational denomination and its churches, schools, hospitals, institutions, and membership united for mission. –Lisa M. Beardsley-Hardy, Whether or not you can participate Editor-in-Chief in person or by means of the Internet or television, you should inform your- self about the upcoming General Lisa M. Beardsley-Hardy (PhD Conference Session (2015.gcsession.org). University of Hawai’I at Manoa) I also urge you to pray that the Holy is director of education, General Spirit will indeed guide in all delibera- Conference of Seventh-day tions, that the church will be unified Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland, and galvanized for mission, that our USA. E-mail: beardsleyl@ hope in Christ will be affirmed, and gc.adventist.org.

* Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church (Mountain View, California: Pacific Press, 1948), 9:261.

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4 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 An ancient honor roll by Jo Ann Davidson When God names a person to the honor roll of the righteous, He recognizes a life of trusting God and His Word, no matter what.

We are living in an era of hero wor- “a man after His own heart” (1 Sam. filled with violence” (Gen. 6:5, 1-12). ship. Museums celebrate nearly every 13:14). What about Moses, who The emphatic language of these sport. Memorials seek to immortal- received the Decalogue from God’s verses suggests that the antediluvian ize music and movie stars. Presidents own hand and met Him face to face world would react negatively to what build libraries to display the record (Deut. 34:10)? Then there is Elijah, Noah was doing. Indeed, Ellen White of their years in office. The Guinness with his amazing courage on Mount informs us that the people mocked Book of World Records highlights Carmel (1 Kings 18). Noah.1 They ridiculed the idea of rain. people who have achieved unusual As I’ve pondered this passage in Noah’s warning from heaven seemed accomplishments. Even the postal Ezekiel, I have come to the conclusion to make no sense in light of what service periodically issues stamps that that there are some critical matters they thought they understood of the celebrate certain important people. in the lives of Noah, Job, and Daniel natural world. Even the philosophers Humans love their heroes! that are significant for us today. Let’s and scientists of the time reasoned Interestingly, God has His heroes as consider each one briefly. that it was impossible for the earth to well, and has memorialized some of be destroyed by water, arguing, “The them in His Word. When we think The case of Noah threatenings of God are for the pur- of biblical heroes, Hebrews 11 often The first thing one recalls about pose of intimidating, and will never comes to mind. A much older honor Noah is that he was commanded by be verified. You need not be alarmed. roll, however, can be found in the Old God to build a massive ship on dry Such an event as the destruction of Testament. In Ezekiel 14, God draws land because of an impending world- the world by the God who made it, attention to three people, and He does wide flood. Apparently he did not stop and the punishment of the beings it four times in a single chapter. He to ponder what people would think of He has created, will never take place. says to Ezekiel: “Son of man, when him. Instead, he simply believed what Be at peace; fear not. Noah is a wild a land sins against Me by persistent God told him and started to work. fanatic.” 2 unfaithfulness ... even if these three One of the first descriptions that Had Noah been like some contem- men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in appears in the biblical record, how- porary Christians who insist that we it, they would deliver only themselves ever, is that Noah was righteous. He only need to know that “God is love” by their righteousness” (Eze. 14:13, 14; “was a just man, perfect [blameless] and that all we need to do is to “love see also vs. 16, 18, 20). in his generations” and “walked with the Lord,” the ark would have never Why did God single out these three God” (Gen. 6:9). For Noah to so live been built. Even in the face of intense individuals in this ancient honor roll? was not an easy matter. He lived in ridicule, however, we find Noah pro- Why wasn’t Abraham included – this the midst of an exceedingly wicked claiming a judgment message. We find man who was called God’s “friend generation: “The LORD saw that the him demonstrating genuine faith – a forever” (2 Chron. 20:7), and who wickedness of man was great in the faith that is obedient. He showed by had his heartwrenching experience earth, and that every intent of the what he did that he believed God, of being commanded by God to sac- thoughts of his heart was only evil even though he had never seen it rain. rifice his beloved son? Nor is David continually… . The earth was also Noah, however, was not an arrogant mentioned, the one whom God calls corrupt before God, and the earth was preacher of doom. Ellen White notes,

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 5 “When the last message of Noah was would be inconsistent with the laws perhaps comes first to mind. The given to that degenerate age, as he of nature… . But Noah stood like a harsh reality of unjust suffering is stood before the people giving his rock amid the tempest. Surrounded by often presented as an argument for warning, they turned from him to popular contempt and ridicule, he dis- unbelief. Yet no book in the Bible ridicule him. They had listened to the tinguished himself by his holy integ- focuses on suffering as poignantly as prayers of Noah that had ascended rity and unwavering faithfulness.”4 does the book of Job. day after day in their behalf, and Note the distinct parallels between Job, an upright and God-fearing with his heart drawn out for them the issues Noah faced and what we man, living a respected, happy, and he delivered his very last message to face today: (1) announcing God’s prosperous life, is suddenly plunged them.”3 Yes, the antediluvians consid- judgment on a resistant sinful world, into utter wretchedness, losing his ered Noah insane. But for 120 years, and (2) doing this in the face of phi- children and all his possessions. he kept building the ark according to losophers who insist that God is lov- Furthermore, he is soon covered with God’s directions. Noah took God at ing and would never really punish, painful boils from head to foot. Even His word. Perhaps not surprisingly, and evolutionary scientists who deny a his wife urges him to “curse God and we find Noah memorialized not only fiat Creator God. die” (Job 2:9). What will Job do? in Ezekiel 14 but also in the New The most important aspect, how- What will his response be to Satan’s Testament (Heb.11:7; 2 Pet. 2:4-5). ever, is that God commends Noah’s challenge hurled against God? How does Noah’s experience com- righteousness four times in Scripture: We know that Job was a righteous pare with ours today? Ellen White in the books of Genesis, Ezekiel, man. God has twice declared this suggests that there are some direct Hebrews, and Second Peter – Noah, in the prologue (Job 1:8; 2:3). Yet correlations: “In Noah’s day philoso- a righteous man, living in a corrupt without being privy to this divine phers declared that it was impossible secular society. assessment and in the midst of intense for the world to be destroyed by water; suffering, Job expresses his pro- so now there are men of science who The case of Job found faith in God: “I know that my endeavor to show that the world can- Job’s experience involves several Redeemer lives, and that in the end he not be destroyed by fire – that this issues. His faithfulness in suffering will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God” (Job 19:25, 26). There are additional issues beyond that of suffering that we must not Subscribe overlook. Job was not of the “covenant to Dialogue line,” though the details mentioned of his life likely place him in the time So you want to be a thinker, not merely a reflector of other people’s thought? Dialogue of the patriarchs.5 This would indi- will continue to challenge you to think critically, as a Christian. Stay in touch with the best cate that Job is a “worthy gentile.” In of Adventist thought and action around the world. Get into Dialogue. the Old Testament, we observe that One-year subscription (3 issues, air mail): US $13.00 Back issues: US $4.00 each God is careful to record two different groups of people: (1) the covenant line I’d like to subscribe to Dialogue in o English o French o Portuguese o Spanish in the Pentateuch, and (2) the exis- Issues Begin my subscription with the next issue. tence of faithful believers outside the I’d like to receive these back issues: Vol. ___, No. ___. Abrahamic covenant, such as in the Payment I’m enclosing an international check or money order. book of Job. My MasterCard or VISA # is______We also find striking evidence that Expiration Date______God, from the very beginning of Please Print recorded history, wanted the two sides Name ______of the great controversy clearly delin- Address ______eated. The cosmic conflict between ______Christ and Satan was not a late devel- opment in the minds of the Israelites. Mail to Dialogue Subscriptions, Linda Torske God included the record of the life of 12501 Old Columbia Pike; Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600; U.S.A. Job in the earliest book of Scripture so Fax 301-622-9627 that Satan’s adversarial role would be E-mail [email protected] clearly portrayed from the outset.

6 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 Why do these issues matter? Job unfolding in all of creation, a plan when called before the very king who was a deeply spiritual person – he infinitely grander than human minds had taken him prisoner and destroyed regularly offered sacrifices for himself can fully grasp. We, along with Job, his country, Daniel did not hesitate and his family; he was sensitive to the need to be reminded that there is so to acknowledge the God of Heaven as needs of the poor; he was sought for much in God’s world that eludes our his source of wisdom. And he did this his wise counsel. Yet he was outside analysis and understanding. God’s more than once, even at the risk of his the divinely-elected covenant line of declarations convicted Job, and should life. Abraham through which the Messiah convict us, as well, concerning the When a death decree is issued was promised. limitations of human wisdom. affecting Daniel, he returns to his This is a significant point. As God does have a plan for this world. room, opens his window and prays. Seventh-day Adventists, we under- Everything is not in chaos, no matter The text makes clear that Daniel is stand, through a study of biblical how things may appear, even when not praying from mindless routine, prophecies, that we are called to bad things happen to good people. nor was this prayer his last resort. proclaim God’s last message of judg- Furthermore, as important as the No, he “prayed ... just as he had done ment and salvation to a dying world. Seventh-day Adventist mission is at before … three times a day” (Dan. The book of Job, however, reminds this time, we are not the only people 6:10, 13). us of an important perspective that that God loves. Scripture, in fact, By kneeling before his open window must accompany our understanding closes with God referring to those to pray, Daniel demonstrates heroic of what, who, and where we are in inside fallen Babylon as “My people” courage. He prefers the death sentence Earth’s history. (Rev. 18:2, 4). rather than break his communion It is true God has called us to an with God. As a skilled politician important mission. Yet the history The case of Daniel high in Persia’s government, Daniel of Job shows us that God has faith- Seventh-day Adventists rightly is not ignorant of what is going on: ful children outside the remnant line. study Daniel’s prophetic materials. In “Although he knew full well the con- While God chose Abraham to be the Ezekiel 14, however, God commends sequences of his fidelity to God, his Father of Nations, three times He Daniel’s righteousness. What is it spirit faltered not. Before those who says of Job something He never says about Daniel’s life that God acclaims? were plotting his ruin, he would not about any of the patriarchs: that Job In Daniel 1, we find a portrait of a allow even the appearance that his “is blameless and upright, … one who life of temperance and integrity, even connection with Heaven was severed.”7 fears God and shuns evil” (Job 1:1, though Daniel was a teenager and No wonder God dramatically 8; 2:3). Job’s life is a testimony that a prisoner of war in Babylon. Later singles Daniel out. On three dif- God’s sphere of influence is much we see Daniel maintaining his faith ferent occasions, when the angel wider than we might imagine! in God, even in the face of a death Gabriel is dispatched from heaven in Perhaps we need to inform our decree. Ellen White informs us that answer to Daniel’s prayers to under- thinking, through the witness of Job’s Daniel was “sorely tried” and that “he stand his visions, note how Gabriel noble life, that God has always had was surrounded with distrust and sus- expresses heaven’s affection: once devout followers inside and outside picion, … yet he maintained a serene “You are greatly beloved,” and twice the remnant stream. We must not and cheerful trust in God, never once “O Daniel, man greatly beloved” be so stuffy and arrogant as to think deviating from principle.”6 (Dan. 9:23; 10:11, 18-19). Daniel is that we alone are the people that God At the same time, there is no evi- the only person in the Scriptures so cherishes. Jesus Himself commented dence of Daniel harboring a haughty signally affirmed. Only the Messiah on a Roman centurion’s faith: “I have contempt for the pagan religion he Himself receives such multiple divine not found so great a faith in Israel” found in Babylon. Nor did he casu- expressions of affection, when at His (Matt. 8:10). ally assume that his Israelite faith was baptism and His transfiguration, the While we are rightly certain of just one of several possibilities that Father proclaims from heaven, “This our role in salvation history, God’s can bring a person to God, and that is My beloved Son!” (Matt. 3:17; four-chapter discourse to Job and it doesn’t really matter which religion 17:5). his friends – His longest address in one chooses. The consistent record of Scripture – reminds us that God’s Daniel’s life negates that perspective. Why these three? involvement in human history is Daniel knew exactly where he stood. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God much more extensive and complex He revered the God of Heaven and gives pointed attention to Noah, Job, than we can understand. God, in faithfully maintained his distinctive and Daniel. Why did God hold Noah fact, instructs Job that He has a plan worship amid great difficulty. Indeed, in such high esteem? Could it be

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 7 because of his unqualified faithfulness fully draws attention to the righteous- REFERENCES amidst the prevailing skepticism of his ness of Daniel. 1. Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, (Mountain View, California: Pacific Press time, of his integrity in the face of sci- Noah, Job, and Daniel. Each Pub. Assn., 1913), pp. 96, 103; Counsels to entific and philosophical mockery of one faced a distinct challenge that Parents, Teachers, and Students (Mountain the divine command? He confronted, demanded a profound level of faith: View, California: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1943), p. 55. just as we do now, a widespread loy- • Faith in the word of God amid 2. ___, Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 99. alty to a form of materialism where prevailing skepticism; 3. ___, Christ Triumphant (Hagerstown, reality is defined and circumscribed • Faith in God amid and in spite of Maryland: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1999), p. 55 [MS 86, 1886]. by what is humanly imaginable and acute suffering; and 4. ___, Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 99, 103. presently occurring. Noah, however, • Faith in God in a situation of 5. Such as: (1) The types of animal herds he grasped the infinite unseen world, sophisticated pluralism, choosing owns are like those described of Abraham and the other patriarchs in Genesis. (2) Job’s and this shaped his obedient faith. He to accept death rather than dis- offering sacrifices corresponds to that of followed God’s commands explicitly, honor God. the patriarchs. (3) There is no mention of the Exodus event in the book of Job, which, announcing God’s judgment on sin by These, in fact, are the very issues subsequent to its occurrence, is mentioned by building a large boat on dry land, hav- that Ellen White, in The Great almost every other biblical writer. (4) Ellen ing never seen rain. Controversy, indicates that we will face White informs us that Moses wrote the book of Job while in Midian (Education, p. 159). Why Job? Job traveled a tortuous as our world falls under its final judg- 6. White, “Daniel, an Example of Faithfulness,” route with God. Yet in the face of ment. Signs of the Times, November 4, 1886. confusion, suffering, and pain, we God, through Ezekiel, commends 7. White, Prophets and Kings (Mountain View, California: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1943), p. find Job declaring his unmovable these three Old Testament “worthies” 44. faith in God. Moreover, his life is to us four times in a single chapter! 8. White, The Sanctified Life (Washington, also a notable portrait of the “grafted When God speaks, we can believe D.C.: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1956), branches” God promises for the True Him. “The words of the LORD are p. 47. Vine; and we stand amazed at the pure words, like silver in a furnace of quality of these grafts! the earth, purified seven times” (Ps. Why Daniel? We, who are chal- 12:6). Throughout Scripture, God lenged by New Testament Babylon, calls us to righteousness. Through the have been called to the same high prophet Amos, He urges, “Let justice standards in our personal habits, per- run down like water, and righteous- taining to what we drink, what we ness like a mighty stream” (Amos eat, how we lead a simple lifestyle. 5:24). The psalmist adds, “For the Occasionally, some Seventh-day LORD is righteous, He loves righ- Adventists rumble that these lifestyle teousness” (Ps. 11:7). Through the standards are not that important. prophet Ezekiel, God commends Daniel’s singular witness in Babylon’s Noah, Job, and Daniel for their righ- luxurious court and its results give teousness. Thus, we can begin to testimony of the importance of faith- understand what God means as He fulness. calls attention to these three lives: that Ellen White also highlights Daniel’s a righteous life means trusting God prayer life: “If we as a people would and His Word no matter what. pray as Daniel prayed, and wrestle as he wrestled, humbling our souls before God, we should realize as Jo Ann Davidson (PhD, Trinity marked answers to our petitions as Evangelical Divinity School, were granted to Daniel.”8 When we Deerfield, Illinois) is professor consider Daniel’s steadfast prayer life, of systematic theology at the along with his determination to bring Seventh-day Adventist Theological glory to the God of heaven in that Seminary, Andrews University, premier but pagan court, and recall Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA. that he was willing to face execution E-mail: [email protected]. rather than compromise his faith, it is not difficult to understand why God, through the prophet Ezekiel, purpose-

8 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 How should Christians treat animals in research? by Mark F. Carr In doing scientific research, we must not forget the domain of our stewardship, so as to move away from procedures that cause pain and suffering in animals. We can and must aspire to a higher level of responsibility to God and the rest of His creation.

One of the most contested and reduce the number of animals in use. ally accomplished via national leg- perennial issues in how we relate to Finally, researchers should refine their islation and, increasingly, through our environment is the use of animals experimental technique so as to avoid international oversight groups. The in research. Seventh-day Adventists all unnecessary pain to the animals single most important international associated primarily with educational involved. oversight agency is the Association and healthcare institutions engage The prevailing arguments against for Assessment and Accreditation of in animal research. When properly using animals in research center on Laboratory Animal Care International regulated under current accrediting the idea of animal rights, and that (AAALAC). bodies, this research is justifiable. basic among those rights is freedom The guiding documents that pro- Nonetheless, I will make some propos- from pain and suffering. Without vide oversight and management of the als that will encourage Adventists and turning this essay into an argument actual research upon animals make up other Christians to move away from about animal rights, it is important a vast body of literature and regula- research that necessitates pain and suf- to recognize the presence and force of tion. The details are phenomenal and fering in animals. this line of reasoning in the ethics of at least as – if not more – rigorous as animal research. Following the basic those associated with research pro- The use of animals in research definition of human rights to be that tocols using human subjects. What The prevailing arguments in favor which any person has simply because can we glean from these documents of using animals in research programs he or she is human,2 an animal rights with regard to how Adventists might tend toward one or another form of definition would assert a certain set responsibly engage in research using utilitarianism. Within a utilitarian of protections and freedoms for all animals in the educational and health- framework, three primary rules are animals (or non-human animals, to care institutions that are so vital to the at work: replacement, reduction, and be precise).3 If we choose to engage in life of our church around the world? refinement. Established with the pub- this conversation, then we must spec- Principles worth upholding. Three lication of The Principles of Humane ify to what degree animal rights exist levels of regulation and oversight must Experimental Technique by W.M.S. and how those rights do or do not jibe be maintained if we are to engage in Russell and R.L. Burch in 1959, with human rights.4 morally-responsible animal research.5 these three Rs provide a conceptual How animal research is con- Institutional: All morally-respon- framework for morally responsible ducted. Of primary concern here is sible research must be monitored and utilitarian logic.1 Put simply, if there the laboratory research foisted upon regulated by the institutions within are alternatives to using animals, then animals that causes them pain and which it occurs. To put it negatively a researcher should replace the ani- suffering. Such research must be and within the specific context of mals. Then, effort should be made to morally justified, and this is usu- the Adventist church, no individual

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 9 researcher/teacher in a Seventh-day “who or what is so valuable that it of Genesis 1:26 (KJV), the statement Adventist educational institution should be treated with special regard.”8 notes that we were “given dominion should engage in research/class exer- When I refer to moral status here, it over the world, and charged with cise without direct institutional over- is to note our intuitive, nurtured, and responsibility to care for it.”9 As the sight. This oversight must be encour- commanded sense that the object to belief is interpreted and published in aged, supported, and maintained by which we refer is morally important. Seventh-day Adventists Believe, we find the institution/school. I say intuitive because, as creations of two passages: one asserts that we have Local: Institutional oversight must God, bearing His image, we have an a “divinely bestowed responsibility of include complying with any relevant intuitive sense (when we follow His preserving the quality of our environ- local government laws. These laws will) that other parts of His creation ment”; the other notes that “because will vary widely across the nations are morally important. I say nurtured life is a gift of God, we must respect within which the church maintains because we take Scripture seriously it; in fact, we have a moral duty to educational institutions. Regardless in our personal, familial, and congre- preserve it.”10 of variation, local legislation must be gational life, and Scripture teaches Proposal 2: Re-evaluate our the- followed. For instance, vivisection (the that God cares for His creation. If ology of stewardship. Seen through dissection of live animals) is forbid- God cares for His creation, then the lens of theological ethics, what is den in England but not in the United we also ought to care for it. Ought at stake in the creation accounts of States. implies moral obligation or status. I Genesis is our very identity, our role, International: Independent and say commanded because we have been and our place in the entirety of God’s international accreditation offered assigned by God a particular role and creation. There are two principal met- by AAALAC should be sought responsibility within His creation, aphors essential to a biblical, and thus after, achieved, and maintained by as stewards, to value (morally value) Adventist, interpretation of our role in all Seventh-day Adventist educa- other parts of His creation. The onus God’s created order, namely, dominion tional institutions engaging in animal of responsibility here is ours, and it and stewardship. research. AAALAC provides the gold means that we should treat the rest of On having dominion. Humans have standard for any and all efforts to creation as God Himself would treat failed through the course of history as justify research on animals that poten- it. we narrowly interpreted dominion to tially causes pain and suffering. To put it negatively, if we mistreat mean that we could be dominators, While these three fundamental rules an object of His creation (one that users, takers, and abusers of the rest can provide practical guidance for the He has told us we are responsible for of the creation that God announced ethics of animal research, they can- [Gen. 1:26-28]), we engage in a moral good. Following the metaphor of not, and do not, establish acceptable wrong, a sin. For instance, there is dominion, in Christian Western soci- conceptual guidance for the Adventist little or no debate about the moral ety, the rest of creation was thought to church. The conceptual problems ramifications of crushing rocks to have value as it benefits humankind.11 associated with animal research make gravel. Crushing the skulls of How humans relate to the rest of revolve around issues of morality live animals in order to study brain God’s creation is revealed through informed by Scripture, theology, and trauma for human well-being is an beliefs and actions. When something church teaching. entirely different moral activity, and (say, a snail) has intrinsic value, it we recognize it as such. If we do not, has value in and of itself. This is true A three-point proposal we are morally retarded and fail to simply because God created it. God As a means to encourage the church properly reflect God’s image within does not need to command us to value forward, I offer the following three His creation. the snail. The snail has value because strategies. The relevant statements of the God made it. Those of us who hold Proposal 1: Establish consensus Adventist church regarding moral to this view typically argue that all that all non-human creation has moral status emerge in two different forms, of God’s creation has intrinsic moral status. Laboratory research that causes the Twenty-Eight Fundamental value. Those who hold a different view pain and death of animals must be Beliefs and the official statements of assign value because they choose to or morally justified.6 This very fact rec- the General Conference of Seventh- because God commands it. That is, ognizes that there is some moral value day Adventists. Fundamental Belief there is no intrinsic value in the snail. inherent in the non-human animal number six, titled “Creation,” states Rather, it attains value only when we creation of God.7 that humankind made in the image attach value to it (because God has Moral value or status is a term used of God represented “the crowning told us to or we like what it does for in ethics to help us conceptualize work of Creation.” Echoing the words us).

10 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 Of course, one can take a position the world, imaging or reflecting God’s certified by AAALAC, we can be sure on the intrinsic/extrinsic value of beneficent rule over the universe.” that we are maintaining high stan- the rest of God’s creation on a very Additionally, it urges us toward the dards. But high standards may take on complex scale.12 At either extreme of view that “as human beings, we are to a type of status quo that should not be a scale of value are the following two act like God because we are made to acceptable to us as God’s stewards. A positions: be like God. Though we are human, more aspirational approach that calls 1. All things – all of God’s non- and not divine, we are to reflect our us to higher standards should motivate human creation – are intrinsi- Maker within our dominion in every us. If, indeed, we are called to treat cally valuable (they have moral way possible.”15 animals as God Himself would treat status) because He created each Three official statements from the them, we would do well to find alter- and pronounced them good. Seventh-day Adventist Church are rel- natives. Value here is essential in the evant to our role as stewards of God’s Other models of research must be entity itself. creation, listed here chronologically: developed and encouraged that will 2. All things – all of God’s non- “Caring for Creation – A Statement discontinue the harm these animals human creation – are extrinsi- on the Environment,” “A Statement are exposed to. The three Rs approach cally valuable (they have moral on the Environment,” and “Statement to minimizing pain and suffering status) because they benefit on Stewardship of the Environment.”16 (reduce, refine, replace) is consistent humankind. Whether a stone “Caring for Creation – A Statement with this assertion. When carried or a great ape, all of the rest on the Environment” is the only one to its logical end, the 3Rs move us of creation has value only as it that explicitly refers to animals. It completely away from the use of enhances human life. Value here refers to wildlife being plundered as a animals in educational and research is instrumental to humankind. result of human disobedience to God. protocols that cause pain and suffer- In my theological ethics framework, I deeply appreciate these statements, ing. The Guide for the Care and Use of I must take the position that all things finding them among the most elo- Laboratory Animals (one of the three God created hold at least some moral quent ever made by our church. Aside primary resources used by AAALAC status. Any amount of moral status from these statements, there has been itself) describes replacement as fol- imposes a moral obligation upon me no effort to shape an ethic of respon- lows: as the responsible steward of God’s sibility aimed toward the environment “Replacement refers to methods creation. in general or at animals in particular. that avoid using animals. The term On being responsible. The responsi- Nonetheless, our church has called us includes absolute replacements (i.e., bility that God assigns humankind is to respect creation, use restraint in our replacing animals with inanimate a moral one. We have a moral respon- relationship toward Earth’s resources, systems such as computer programs) sibility to engage in a managerial role reevaluate what we really need, and as well as relative replacements (i.e., within the creation. This managerial reaffirm the dignity of created life.17 replacing animals such as vertebrates role is best understood under the Proposal 3: Move medical research with animals that are lower on the theological framework of the principle beyond the use of live animals. As phylogenetic scale).”18 of stewardship. Stewardship, argues we use animals in laboratory and Consistent with the Guide, there are Bauckham, is a “vocation of caring medical research, we must do so with two broad categories of alternatives: responsibility for other creatures.”13 full recognition of the previous two in vitro, literally “in glass,” procedures My point is that we must under- proposals: namely, that these animals are slowly replacing many animal test- stand the metaphor of dominion have intrinsic moral status and that we ing and experimentation processes. through the metaphor of stewardship are morally responsible as God’s stew- Additionally, in silico, or computer and responsibility. With Bauckham, I ards. Clearly, conducting research on modeling programs, are also making would note that “the human relation- animals has instrumental or extrinsic some inroads.19 Two simple illustra- ship to the rest of creation, as intended value to both humankind and non- tions can make the point that seeking by God according to the biblical mate- human animals. We benefit tremen- alternatives is viable. First, observe the rial ... cannot be easily summed up by dously from this research, as does the trend over the last 20 years wherein a single term such as stewardship.”14 animal world itself. fragrance and skin-care product The expository document of Adventist Even in light of this more pragmatic companies have found alternatives to fundamental beliefs blends both reality, the intrinsic moral worth of testing their products on animals.20 metaphors in its reference to Adam animals pushes us away from research Second, how many of us remember and Eve’s responsibility: “His was the that causes them pain and suffering. when pregnancy testing involved kill- responsibility to rule graciously over In cases where Adventist research is ing a rabbit?21 A test once considered

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 11 alternative (using a test strip that mea- publications include several Suffering Matters: Philosophy, Theology, and professional articles and the books Practical Ethics (New York: Oxford University sures hormonal levels in urine) is now Press, 2009); Andrew Linzey, Christianity considered standard practice.22 Life Philosophy and Moral Issues and the Rights of Animals (Chicago, Illinois: The point is that while we may (Silver Spring, Maryland: North Crossroad Publishing Co., 1987); Norm Phelps, The Dominion of Love: Animal Rights presently find it justifiable to cause American Division of Seventh- According to the Bible (New York: Lantern pain and suffering in laboratory ani- day Adventists, 1999), Passionate Books, 2002); Stephen Webb, On God and mals, using the best possible practices Deliberation: Emotion, Temperance, Dogs: A Christian Theology of Compassion for Animals, foreword by Andrew Linzey (New and oversight methods, we do not and the Care Ethic in Clinical York: Oxford University Press, 2002); Tony have to settle for this in the long term. Moral Deliberation (Dordrecht, Sargent, Animal Right and Wrongs: A Biblical We can and must do our best to man- Netherlands: Kluwer Academic Perspective (London: Hodder & Stoughton Religious, 1996); J.R. Hyland, God’s age this domain of our stewardship so Publishers, 2001), and Lovangelism: Covenant with Animals: A Biblical Basis for as to move away from procedures that Love Makes Evangelism Work the Humane Treatment of All Creatures (New (Ringold, Georgia: Teach Services, York: Lantern Books, 2000); and Donna cause pain and suffering in animals. Yarri, The Ethics of Animal Experimentation: We can and must aspire to a higher 2010). E-mail: markfcarr53@gmail. A Critical Analysis and Constructive Christian level of responsibility to God and the com. Proposal (New York: Oxford University Press, 2005, see especially chapter four on “Animal rest of His creation. Rights”). 5. This proposal assumes personal responsibility Summary This article is slightly condensed from on the part of the researcher. its original version that appeared in 6. I would include here the routine instruction Seventh-day Adventists around the in Adventist biology curricula that utilizes live world who may be involved in animal Stephen Dunbar, L. James Gibson, animals. In other words, all vivisection pres- research or the use of animals in edu- Humberto M. Rasi, eds. Entrusted: ently allowed in our educational system must stop. cation that causes pain and suffering Christians and Environmental Care 7. This is not to say anything about whether or face an ethical issue. There are strict (Loma Linda, California: Adventus – not animals are capable of being moral crea- guidelines that must be followed in International University Publishers, tures. It is to say much about human ability and obligation as moral creatures. Part of this order to engage in these activities in 2013). Used by permission. obligation moves us to recognize the value, morally-appropriate ways. Beyond the moral value, of other creations of God. these practical guidelines, we would 8. My colleague James Walters, PhD, used this phrase in his article “Moral Status” in the do well to think clearly about the REFERENCES Encyclopedia of Bioethics. He notes also that biblical and theological convictions of 1 W.M.S. Russell and R.L. Burch, eds. The while moral status is not a new concept, its Principles of Humane Experimental Technique technical use has emerged in part through Adventists with regard to non-human (London: Methuen Press, 1959). public debate about the value or status of the animals, and our relationships to 2. See James W. Nickel, “Human Rights,” in human embryo. There is no tie to the animal nd them. The church has some beliefs Encyclopedia of Ethics, 2 ed., eds. Lawrence rights movement or to any particular ideologi- C. Becker and Charlotte B. Becker (New cal camp. It is a tool that helps each of us and statements that can serve to move York: Routledge Press, 2001), 796-800. categorize who or what is valuable to us and us forward into more thoughtful 3. The Encyclopedia of Ethics (note 2 above) why. As Walters notes, we may throw pebbles reflection on our role as stewards in offers an article titled, not “Animal Rights,” on the beach into the water, “but the people but instead “Animals, Treatment of.” A salient bathing on that same beach are totally dif- God’s creation. It is our responsibil- quote regarding the assertion and develop- ferent. To wantonly toss one of them into the ity now to make the effort to move in ment of the idea of animal rights comes from same water would constitute an immoral, rep- that direction.23 this article: “When Mill writes that all great rehensible act.” Using moral status as a way movements go through three stages: ridicule, of framing the reasons why is commonplace discussion, adoption, those who are active in in ethics. See Jim Walters, “Moral Status,” the animal rights movement understandably Encyclopedia of Bioethics, 3rd ed., ed. Stephen Mark F. Carr, (PhD, University of hope he speaks prophetically of their cause” G. Post (New York: Macmillan Reference, (p. 73, Torn Regan, “Animals, Treatment 2004), 1855-1864. Virginia), a former professor of of”). 9. “Creation” available at http://www.adventist. ethics in the School of Religion 4. The following is a brief sampling of more org/beliefs/fundamental/index.html. important and/or more recent publications on and co-director of the Center for 10. Seventh-day Adventists Believe: A Biblical Christian thought and theology as they relate Exposition of Fundamental Doctrines (Boise, Christian Bio-ethics at Loma Linda to animal rights: D.J. Atkinson, “Rights, Idaho: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 2005), 85, University, California, is currently Animal,” New Dictionary of Christian Ethics 86. and Pastoral Theology, eds. David J. Atkinson the regional director of ethics for 11. See Ernest Fortin, “The Bible Made Me and David H. Field (Downers Grove, Illinois: Do It: Christianity, Science, and the Providence Health and Services, InterVarsity Press, 1995), 745-747; Richard Environment,” Review of Politics 57 (Spring Alaska. He is an ordained minister Bauckham, Living with Other Creatures: 1995) 2:197-223 for a survey of the history Green Exegesis and Theology (Baylor, Texas: of Christianity and the environment. See and was a pastor and youth Baylor University Press, 2011); Richard Alan also G.M. Tucker, “Rain on a Land Where director in the Alaska Conference Young, Is God a Vegetarian? Christianity, No One Lives: The Hebrew Bible on the Vegetarianism, and Animal Rights, foreword of Seventh-day Adventists. His by Carol J. Adams (Chicago, Illinois: Open Court, 1999); Andrew Linzey, Why Animal Continued on page 29

12 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 Congenital Christianity by David Kim If your religious experience is dry and barren, if you are working hard to keep up an outward Adventist appearance without the power of Adventism, if you are busy for the Lord while feeling empty inside, if you feel as if your path in Christianity and Adventism was predetermined for you by a genealogical heritage, this article is for you: a cure for congenital Christianity.

I am a son of Korean immigrants, an You avoid talking about your faith at The bad news is that, first, untreated elder brother, a husband, a father, a for- school or work, because you don’t want congenital Christianity leads to eternal mer professional cellist, and a corporate to have to explain what you believe, or death 100 percent of the time. Second, executive. Yet, as important and defining because you’re embarrassed by it. while the disease is passed down, the as each of these is to my identity, the You’ve heard that we have distinctive cure is not. You cannot be saved by your most important and most defining fact biblical beliefs about death, hell, and the parents’ faith, nor that of anyone else. in my life is that by the grace of God, sanctuary, but you’re not sure what they Third, you must affirmatively choose I am the survivor of a chronic and are or why they matter. to be cured. It will not get better on its deadly disease. You hear people talking about the own. Millions around the world have “Spirit of Prophecy,” but you’re conflicted That’s the bad news. Would you like this disease. It runs in families and about it (even though you’ve never actu- the good news? First, the good news is is passed from generation to genera- ally read any of the books). that there is a cure, and I am living proof. tion. It is a silent killer. There is no Those beasts on the prophecy seminar I can testify that I have been cured by known cure for this condition without flyer look really bizarre to you, and you’re the love of Jesus and the power of the a miraculous intervention by God clueless as to what it all means. everlasting gospel, and if God can save Himself. I am a survivor of congenital You think that the mega-church down a wretch like me, He can surely save Christianity. the street, or that independent congrega- anyone. Second, it is not too late. Even if tion on the other side of the town, would you have been suffering under the luke- A diagnosis be much more fun, but you feel slightly warm, putrefying malaise of congenital Congenital Christianity is a spiritual guilty for thinking that. Christianity for years and even decades, condition, which in some ways resem- You go to church most weeks, because God can still reach down from His bles true Christianity, but at the core is you want your kids to have exposure, throne, touch your heart, and change it superficial – lacking an authentic saving even though you don’t personally feel from a heart of stone into a heart of relationship with Christ. Perhaps you invested in the faith. flesh. I know He can do this, because have seen this deadly disease firsthand in These are just a few of the symptoms, He did it for me. your church, in your family, or in your but they should give you an idea of what own life. Let me share a non-exhaustive we are talking about. Does any of this Early symptoms list of symptoms, any one of which can sound familiar? Well, I have good news My story begins three generations be a marker for the condition. and bad news. ago, in the early 1900s, when my great

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 13 grandfather became the second ordained faithfulness, but at that time, she was in school I attended public schools, which Seventh-day Adventist pastor in Korea. a different place spiritually. was great academically, but my faith His son, my grandfather, also entered After I asked my mother why these was continually assaulted from all sides. the pastoral ministry and became the people were going to church on Sunday, Specifically, the assault came from the first native Korean to serve as president she replied something to the effect of “I curriculum, the extracurricular activities, of the Korean Union Conference. don’t know,” and that was the end of it. and peer pressure. His son, my father, did not enter the I walked away from that conversation First, the curriculum. It was 100 per- ministry, but he attended Seventh- confused, and scratching my head. cent secular and humanistic. From biol- day Adventist schools all the way up One of the primary risk factors for ogy to English literature, I was exposed to entering medical school, where he congenital Christianity is confusion. to the breadth of worldviews in which achieved the highest score in the entire From my earliest childhood experience, humanism was exalted and God was country on the national medical board I was confused and did not receive clear torn down. exams, while keeping the Sabbath in a instruction at home. This is why the Now, don’t get me wrong. In order to country that required attending class on Lord told us long ago, “And these words witness to the world around us, we need Saturdays. which I command you today shall be in to be able to speak the language and That’s where I come in, because I was your heart. You shall teach them dili- understand the culture. Sustained expo- just four months old when my father and gently to your children, and shall talk sure to these worldviews, however, can mother came to the United States with of them when you sit in your house, be dangerous if we are not well ground- two suitcases and a baby, so my father when you walk by the way, when ed in the reality of God and the truth could pursue his medical residency in you lie down, and when you rise up” of His word. By beholding you become Boston. So, while I am a 1.5 generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).1 changed, and if all you are beholding is Korean-American immigrant, I am a That is Bible instruction for all time! Darwin, Kant, Rousseau, and Richard fourth-generation Seventh-day Adventist If you leave your children confused, Dawkins, without beholding Moses, Christian. While many blessings come you increase their risk of congenital Daniel, Paul, John, and Jesus, then you from having this history in the church, Christianity. You might think that they will be changed! At a minimum, you are this spiritual heritage also comes with a are too young to understand or care, but setting yourself up for confusion, and predisposition to congenital Christianity. they are paying more attention than you more likely, you will end up in out- My earliest spiritual memory goes might guess, and you have the oppor- right apostasy and even atheism. back to when I was just four years old. tunity to provide them with the vaccine So that was the curriculum, but I would come downstairs early on of a strongly biblical, age-appropriate beyond the curriculum were the extra- Sunday mornings and watch television foundation, or leave them dangerously curricular activities. Whether sports, while my parents slept. It didn’t take vulnerable on the shifting sands of clubs, arts, or academics, it seemed that me long to notice that every Sunday it confusion. everything conflicted with the Sabbath. seemed as if every channel I turned to I struggled greatly with these conflicts, was broadcasting a church service, and The condition worsens because my unconverted heart wanted I was completely perplexed. Even at that The ensuing years of my childhood to accomplish much in the world, and young age, I knew that Saturday was and adolescence read like a textbook case I believed that my success depended on the Sabbath. of progressive congenital Christianity. worldly recognition. This continued for some time, until In sixth grade, I was pulled out of our In my case, I was gaining success as a finally one day I decided I would ask local Adventist school for two reasons. cellist I was one of the best in the state my mother what was going on. I have First was the excessive PDAs exhibited of California, and I was considering a the distinct memory of walking into the by high school kids at the adjoining career in cello performance. A key part kitchen where my mother was doing academy. No, I don’t mean personal of establishing a track record in music dishes, and asking her, “Uma, why are all digital assistants. Smartphones were is the competition circuit, but time after these people going to church on Sunday? not the problem. I mean public displays time, I had to decline participation due Don’t they know that Saturday is the of affection, and they were at the point to the Sabbath. It was an excruciating Sabbath?” where my parents no longer felt comfort- struggle in my teenage mind, and this Now, before I tell you what happened able having their fourth and sixth-graders struggle was compounded by the fact next, I must explain that my mother attending that school. The second reason that some fellow Adventists did not see is a godly woman. She is now a prayer was that the academics were not as chal- the issue as anything big. warrior, a Bible worker, and a church lenging as I needed. I was becoming The third force assaulting my faith planter amongst the Korean immigrant bored in the classroom. through my formative years was peer community. I thank the Lord for her So, from the sixth grade through high pressure. Beginning in the sixth grade,

14 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 through my peers, I was exposed to the course, there wasn’t an Adventist group one. I was spiritually bewildered and range of filth and wickedness that we anywhere on campus, but it didn’t matter checked out of church completely. unfortunately consider a normal part to me, because other than Sabbath keep- The next 14 years were a blur. I was in of growing up. Whether on the school ing, I didn’t know the difference. hot pursuit of worldly success, and I was bus, sleepovers, field trips, or the cafete- I will never forget the first InterVarsity succeeding. Over that period of time, ria, or through the popular media and Bible study I attended. There were about I earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees various and sundry other settings, Satan 10 of us, and it was led by a senior in cello performance with honors and was there to teach me what things are named Drew. He was a French horn scholarships from top music schools. I pleasurable, desirable, and required for player. We went around the group, performed all over the world at some of social standing, emotional fulfillment, introducing ourselves: name, where we’re the most prestigious musical venues with physical gratification, and ultimately from, what we were studying, and any world-class conductors and orchestras. happiness. spiritual background. I earned an MBA from one of the lead- Of course, there are exceptions. But When it came to my turn, a dialog ing programs and worked at some of the for every person who manages to handle ensued which went something like this: most prestigious companies. I married the peer pressure and emerge unscathed, Me: Hi, my name is David Kim. I am my beautiful wife and had two precious an untold multiple of that number see, from San Luis Obispo, California. I am children. I felt like I had achieved the hear, touch, taste, and smell images, here studying cello performance, and I American dream. My house did not have media, and substances, and have myriad am Seventh-day Adventist. a white picket fence, but it did have a experiences which leave deep mental, Drew: Seventh-day Adventist, eh? solar-heated swimming pool. emotional, and even physical scars that Why are you a Seventh-day Adventist? Over the years, however, the Lord will haunt them for the rest of their lives. Me: Well, my family is Adventist and had drawn me back into the church. At There may be some of you reading I grew up that way. But beyond that, I church, I met and married my wife when this who know exactly what I am talking think that the Bible is pretty clear on the we both lived in Chicago. I was even about. In fact, Satan may infiltrate your Sabbath being on Saturday. serving as an elder when we moved out thinking and may even push you to the Drew: Hmmm ... well, what about to California. But I was not yet heart- point where you wish that God did not Colossians 2:16? converted. I was still as confused as ever even exist! Because if He exists and is Me: What’s Colossians 2:16? about our message. My theology and as holy and perfect as spelled out in the Drew: Let’s look it up and read it lifestyle were still a mess. Bible, you would surely be destined for together. Oh yes, “the outside of the cup” was eternal loss. Me: O.K. “So let no one judge you in clean, but inside I was “full of extortion It was with this mindset that I limped food or in drink, or regarding a festival or and self-indulgence.” I was like a “white- my way through high school. All of this a new moon or Sabbaths… .” washed tomb, which appeared beautiful hurt, shame, and conflicted emotion Drew: Right. So by being so focused outwardly,” but inside I was “full of dead was hidden behind a facade of perfect on keeping Saturday, you guys are just bones and all uncleanness.” On the grades, musical accolades, and admis- being legalists. Jesus freed us from the outside I “appeared righteous to men,” sion to world-class schools like Stanford law. but inside I “was full of hypocrisy and University and the Eastman School of I’ll never forget that moment. I felt lawlessness” (Matthew 23:25-28). Music. mortified as I read those words. I had This period of my life was marked I was chasing the world and doing never seen that verse in my life, and by an intense ambivalence toward God, extremely well by its standards, but all I had no clue what to say. You would Adventism, and Christianity. As far as I the while I was ambivalent toward God, think that someone who grew up in could tell, Seventh-day Adventists were resentful toward His church, and spiritu- our church would have understood the evangelicals who went to church on ally ungrounded – cast adrift in a sea difference between ceremonial Sabbaths Saturday. I was sticking to the Sabbath of worldliness and secularism. and the Sabbath of the fourth command- out of a desire to keep the fourth com- ment. But I did not learn about this mandment, but I was bringing a legal- The condition becomes full- growing up, and so I felt confused, istic mindset to it. blown betrayed, and humiliated. To top it all off, I had been diagnosed Against this backdrop, I went off to I never went back to that Bible study. with a degenerative bone condition in Eastman, and like any freshman, I was And I stopped going to church. My both of my hips, and I was suffering looking for a sense of belonging and congenital Christianity had metastasized. through multiple unsuccessful surgeries. affiliation. One of the places I looked While I never gave up the idea of God, For 10 years, I walked with a combina- for this was at the local chapter of I had no idea who He was, what to tion of crutches, canes, and pain. (I InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. Of believe, or which church was the right don’t have these today. Praise the Lord!)

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 15 But at the time, as far as I could tell, way I was going to attend. thought was, “I better do something God was leaving me to suffer through Little did I know that God had other about it!” this condition on my own, and I was plans for me. Come November, instead My life has never been the same. The angry with Him. of being busy with work, I was told that Lord put me on the road to recovery, and So I focused on worldly success, I should look for a new job. This came I haven’t looked back! though I called it “providing for my as a total shock, but I, like many others, family” because it sounded better. I was caught in the undertow of the global Life restored didn’t have personal devotions. I didn’t financial crisis. The good news was that That next month was GYC2 in San study the Bible. We had family worship I had plenty of time to attend the meet- Jose, California, and I took that opportu- occasionally, but only if I happened to ings. nity to be a local bus guide for the out- come home early enough that the kids I thank God for that opportunity to reach. It was a small step, but a big deal were still up, which was rare. I was pride- hear the entire gospel message in a sys- for me, because I had never participated ful, covetous, and ambitious for worldly tematic way. As the evangelist unfolded in any evangelism in my entire life. I things. God and church were something the message step by step, night after thought I could handle this since I did I did for my children – just in case it was night, I saw for the first time the logic, not have to get off the bus and knock all true – but I was angry at God and coherence, and reliability of the Bible on an actual door. consumed with the world. and our gospel message. For the first I survived that experience intact, so I time, I could cut through all of the started to look for other witnessing and The road to recovery clichés and assumptions tied up with training opportunities. I attended a Yet through all of this, God was trying our Christian faith, and I understood training seminar, AFCOE to Go, where to reach me. There were times at church that the Bible could be trusted. I began I learned how to give personal Bible when I would hear a song, testimony, or to grasp why an all-powerful and all- studies. I accompanied my church’s Bible sermon, and my heart would be touched loving God would allow suffering and worker to follow up the Bible study leads and my eyes would become wet with evil to exist for a season. I began to from GYC. tears. But I would quickly wipe them comprehend the “physics” of salvation: On the job search front, God was faith- away as inconspicuously as possible and why Jesus had to die, and what it has ful. In the middle of the worst job market hope that nobody noticed what had to do with me. I understood how God in a generation, He provided me with happened. has shown us through His prophetic not just one, but six excellent opportuni- In these moments, I knew that the word all that we need to know to get us ties, one of which brought me to the Holy Spirit was trying to reach me, but safely through to the Second Coming Philadelphia area, where I live today. I refused to yield to His promptings. I and beyond, if only we would read it. I As I embarked on a new job in a new was still too proud, too angry, too con- saw that all of the do’s and don’ts that are place just over four years ago, it is almost sumed by the world, and I didn’t know commonly associated with God, His Law, as if God gave me the opportunity to God, much less trust Him. I didn’t and even things like the health message, start life again with a clean sheet. I understand the Bible and its message. are not because God is picky or arbitrary purposed in my heart to be faithful to It didn’t make any sense to me. I was or mean, but rather that He is preparing God in all aspects of my life, to bring congenitally Christian, but my heart was us for a future reality in which we will my authentic faith to everything I do unconverted. live in His direct presence for all eter- each day. It was in this spiritual context that I nity, and that this is what we ourselves It has made all the difference. Let was sitting in a church board meeting. It would choose, if we could see every- me describe for you some of the dif- was early 2008, and we were discussing thing as He sees it. ferences I have seen in my life, not to offering our first prophecy seminar in For the first time, God was real to glorify myself, but to give you tangible over a decade. The pastor was emphasiz- me, because for the first time, He made examples of what a transformed life can ing the need for every member to attend perfect sense. look like. I have a regular devotional life, to support the meetings. I’ll never forget how I felt, sitting there with a depth and consistency I’ve never I remember thinking to myself that in the hall, looking up at the PowerPoint, had before. In particular, I’m praying going to church five nights a week for and realizing that the 70-week proph- more than I ever have. When I suffered five weeks to listen to preaching was ecy in Daniel 9 perfectly predicted the from congenital Christianity, I used to crazy. Maybe the weekends, but I was beginning of Christ’s ministry in the struggle to pray more than a few minutes simply too busy at work to go to church “15 th year of Tiberius Caesar.” at a time. As my walk with the Lord has on the weekdays. Who had time for I had two immediate thoughts. My deepened, He has built out my time in that? I would be happy to write a check first thought was, “Wow! This is incred- prayer to be around 30 minutes or more to support the effort, but there was no ible! This is really true!” My second every morning, and I pray without ceas-

16 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 ing throughout the day in meetings and involvement with an amazing record- encounters with the people in my life. ing project called The Lamb Wins. It The Lord is teaching me how to praise is an epic musical journey through the Him like David did in the psalms. He is book of Revelation. The songs take you teaching me how to pray for others. He chapter-by-chapter and verse-by-verse has also given me the boldness to have through the entire book. It is textually spiritual conversations with everyone rich, theologically powerful, culturally around me. He has taught me how to relevant, and eminently listenable.3 The approach these conversations in a very Lamb Wins is the most gratifying musi- natural way, to identify interests and cal endeavor I have ever been part of, plant seeds. I have been having a dozen because God has redeemed my musical or more spiritual conversations per week talents, from glorifying my carnal self with people in my sphere of influence. to glorifying Him. Some of these spiritual conversations Now, I am just a layman who grew up have turned into personal Bible stud- in the church. My story is perhaps not ies. Over the last few years, the Lord so unusual, but if I might be so bold, I has given me the opportunity to study pose to you this question: Are you suf- with people who have a wide range of fering from congenital Christianity? Is spiritual and educational backgrounds, your religious experience dry and bar- from atheists to agnostics to Buddhists ren? Are you keeping up appearances, to evangelicals, from PhDs to MBAs to working hard for the Lord, while feeling lawyers and others. empty inside? Are you having an “elder The Lord has also changed my family son” experience as described by Jesus in life. I used to rush out in the morning the parable of the prodigal son? Do you before the kids were up and stumble feel as if your path in Christianity and back in the evening when the kids were Adventism were predetermined for you asleep. Today, we gather for family by a genealogical heritage passed down prayer every morning, and every evening from your parents or grandparents? Or we have family worship. perhaps you came later to the faith, but God is so merciful and good! I am so have lost your first love? thankful that He got hold of my heart I have good news for you! You too while my children were still young. By have the opportunity – in fact, the His grace, my congenital Christianity obligation – to make your own decision will stop with me. for Jesus, to make your own decision Free subscription I am by no means perfect, but I’m dif- for revival. The choice is up to you! ferent than I used to be; by the grace of The cure is readily available to you. for your college God, I’ll be even more like Jesus every Jesus wants to destroy the congenital day. Day by day, from faith to faith, and Christianity coursing through your veins or university glory to glory! and replace it with His saving blood. library! The Lord is even using my musical talents in a completely new way. In my Do you wish to see Dialogue available congenital Christianity, music was a David Kim (Master of Music, in the library of your public college or way to glorify myself, to feed my ego. Northwestern University; MBA, university so that your non-Adventist And it made me resent the Sabbath. Stanford University) is a corporate friends may also have access to the jour- I considered playing special music at executive with Vanguard Group. nal? Contact the librarian, show him or her a copy of the journal, and suggest E-mail: [email protected]. church a burden and beneath me, and if that they request a free subscription to I condescended to do so, I would play a Dialogue, writing on official letterhead. secular classical piece to better showcase We will take care of the rest! my skill. REFERENCES The letter should be addressed to: Over the last few years, however, the 1. Scripture references, unless otherwise stated, Dialogue Editor-in-Chief; 12501 Old are from the New King James Version. Lord has been teaching me how to per- 2. Generation of Youth for Christ outreach. Columbia Pike; Silver Spring, Maryland form for His glory, not my own. The 3. If you’d like to learn more about this project, go 20904-6600; U.S.A. culmination of this process has been my to www.thelambwins.com.

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 17 PROFILE Nathalie Walther Dialogue with a nurse from Switzerland Interview by Lorena Mayer

Choosing a career can sometimes prove a daunting search. Not so for Nathalie Walther. Her vocation was clear from a very early age, as may happen to other nurses. Her desire to help and make people aware of the great capital they have been given by their Creator has led – and continues to lead – her life choices and activi- ties. Hers is a life lived with a purpose at a time in history when purpose in life can be a rare commodity. Walther has a strong faith in her Creator God. She seeks to share hope with patients, their families, and She is married to Nicolas Walther, colleagues. She also seeks to instill who has worked since 2009 as the love of service in her children managing director of the Clinique and other young people in her local La Lignière, a renowned Adventist Adventist church. hospital in Gland, Switzerland. They Walther was born in Fribourg, have two children: Emma, 12, and Switzerland, and grew up enjoying Arnaud, 13. She is an active member the beautiful Swiss countryside. Even of her local Adventist church, where though she has a passion for the out- she devotes herself to Sabbath school doors, she chose to become a nurse activities for the youth and partici- and spend her working hours indoors, pates in Adventist social and health setting aside the beauty of her land projects. from her eyes and focusing instead on the suffering and pain within hospitals. n What motivated you to become a She graduated as a registered nurse nurse? from the Geneva Nursing School. Ever since I can remember, I always Later, she obtained a certificate in wanted to be a nurse. Three people palliative care. She has worked at the in my life had a strong influence on renowned Geneva University Hospital my decision to become a nurse: my and Fribourg Cantonal Hospital. mother, my grandmother, and a little Currently, she works part-time in a boy named Philippe. My mother has private hospital. always had a strong desire for social

18 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 welfare; she always wanted to help n Is he still part of your family? not buy toys to put in the boxes; they others. My grandmother as well. She In a sense, yes. He lived with my had to choose a toy they loved and had, near our home, an old people’s paternal family for about 30 years, give it away. They did. And I think home, and I would spend long hours until it was not possible for my par- they learned to be sensitive to the playing with people there. It was all ents to look after him anymore. He is needs of others. I realized that it could too natural for me to look after them, now in a home for the handicapped, be learned. If you don’t feel inclined and it was great fun for them to look but we are still in touch, all of us: my to help others, you can learn. It does after me. parents, my brothers and I, and our not take doing something big. It takes own families. And whenever he makes making yourself available and willing n And this boy named Philippe? life difficult for his caretakers, a phone to do what you can. When I was one year old, my par- call to my mother works wonders. ents brought Philippe home. He was That soothes him, and he becomes n One day you made yourself available four years old and had severe mental “normal” again. Until the next crisis, professionally, and started working as a challenges. He needed help and a that is. nurse. Where did you start? family, because his mother was also I was extremely happy to finish my handicapped and could not look after n Did anyone, later in your life, play a studies and finally start working as a him. He was a perfect match for my role model for you in the world of heal- nurse. My first position was at Geneva mother’s outgoing love. So I grew up ing and health care? University Hospital. Such was my with Philippe, always helping and hav- I don’t think so. But I remember a excitement that whenever I went on ing fun with him. My experiences at group of nurses I got to know pretty holidays, I missed work and longed to home sparked my dream to become well. I had a health problem when I get back to the hospital. I have fond a missionary and go to Africa to help was 10 years old, and for two years memories of those years in Geneva. little children with big bellies, suffer- they would come to my place and give But then we moved to Fribourg, and I ing from malnutrition. me injections. When they left, I would was offered a job at Fribourg Cantonal go to the bin and retrieve the needles Hospital, in the unit specializing in n Did your dream come true? they used. Then I’d get my teddy ear, nose, and throat treatment. There No, not really. I remained in bears and would give them injections I was to learn a thing or two about life Switzerland. We looked after Philippe myself. I just loved playing nurse with and death. for many years. He needed us in every them. sense: he had crises of epilepsy, he had n What happened? to be taught the very basic routines n Your vocation seems to be larger than I was confronted with patients with of life, and his social manners were the medical world. How do you live it cancer and treatments that, in my particularly funny. It was a full-time today, now that you are married, have view at that moment, left them inca- job for the whole family, and we all two teenage children, and work as a pable of doing some basic things, like pitched in to make it feasible. nurse? eating or breathing normally. I simply With the help of my husband, I could not understand why so much n You taught and gave much to try to instill in our children love and had to be done for patients who were Philippe. Did you learn something from service to others. I have told them ever so weak and sick. I would even get him? since they were little that we are not angry at the doctors and other nurses. Absolutely. We learned not to be here to live only for ourselves. We have I thought it would be better to spare ashamed of being with those who received much, we need to give much. patients those “destructive” treatments are different. I remember when we Actually, I’m passing on to them what and let them live the end of their life were teenagers, we used to go out to my mother taught me. She used to tell with more dignity. But then I learned the city with one of my brothers and me that we had good health, a good about palliative care and realized that Philippe. As he didn’t behave normally family, a house, and many other bless- when you’re fighting a deadly disease, and said all sort of weird things, we ings. Then, if we wanted to be coher- there’s an instinct within you that had to get used to behaving like adults ent with our Christian faith and with makes you want to do everything pos- looking after a difficult child. I con- our relationship with God, we had the sible to postpone death. You want to fess that this was not always easy, but responsibility to give. For example, try every possible treatment, whatever in the end we did not really care about since they were little, we have pre- the cost. I learned that the healthy what people said. pared ADRA Christmas gift boxes person and the terminally-sick person that travel to orphanages in other have very different priorities. I needed countries. I told them that I would to respect that.

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 19 n Palliative care training brought a new perspective to your life. Do you remember a case where it particularly helped you in your daily work? After surgery, we used to accom- pany patients back to their rooms and had the chance to spend the morn- ing with them, making sure that all was technically fine but also bringing them personal comfort. I remember one man. He was intubated in the throat and looked at me with deep anguish. He was very scared. I held his hand, smiled at him, and spoke kindly. Suddenly, in a totally involun- tary reaction, he coughed and a big mass of mucus came out of the tube and landed on my sleeve. He knew he could not help it, but I could see the guilt in his eyes. He looked at me as if saying, “Look at the mess I’ve done! I’m so sorry.” How was I to react? It was not a pleasant sight all right, but I managed to control myself. I didn’t clean up the mess as an immediate reaction. I just smiled and stayed there. I could feel he was relieved. n What about the families of terminal patients? When one member of the family is sion that I bothered him. My children eyes and squarely asked, “I’m going to terminally sick, the dynamic of the were also great in this sense and would die, right?” I was taken aback. What whole family changes. I have count- do all sorts of little things to make me could I say that would make sense? less opportunities to talk with family feel loved and supported. Some col- So I prayed, “God, give me the right members. It is rather difficult for me leagues I had didn’t have any support words, please!” Somehow I knew I to remember a particular conversation. at home or perhaps lived alone. Either had to send the question back to him. But, again, palliative care training they did not last long in oncology or “What do you think?” He gave him- helped me see things from their per- palliative care units, or they protected self the reply, “Yes, I’m going to die.” spective and be more helpful to them. themselves to the point of just going This led to a very deep conversation through the motions and not giving with him about life, death, and hope. n Working with people with cancer anything of themselves. and seeing death on a daily basis can n You talked with patients, their fami- be extremely taxing on the medical staff n How has your faith in God helped lies, and surely also with your colleagues around them. How did you cope? you cope? to help them cope. Indeed. If you don’t have some sort Without God, life in any dimen- On a daily basis, I see colleagues of support, you simply can’t make it. sion can be empty. Many prayers who need to be cheered up. When For me, my husband’s support and go up every day as I treat patients. I I was working at Geneva University encouragement has been key. He lis- remember once I was with a 40-year- Hospital, there was this young, sport- tened to my stories of the day, and he old man with a malignant tumor. We ive nurse who looked after a very looked after the kids as much as he knew he was quickly going to die, but young patient, 17 years old, with a could. He had his own full-time job as nobody dared talk with him about tumor in the knee. She saw herself in well, but never did I have the impres- it. One day, he looked at me in the this young man and couldn’t stand the

20 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 emotional roller coaster. So we would versa. This insight makes them aware ferent personalities. If you don’t like talk and try to find ways to overcome of certain changes they need to make. technical work, you can do relational her difficulty. In the nursing ministry, In a way, a health expo serves as a work. You can be a circulating nurse sharing and supporting each other as driver of change. It compels people or a scrub nurse. You can do social caregivers is a great source of mutual to take their health more seriously to service in the streets. There’s room for strength and help. ensure a better quality of life. many types of people. This is a very fulfilling profession. And, needless to n Currently, you are working in a n Would you repeat the experience? say, it is also a perfect match for an private clinic, part time. Do you miss I am currently helping out in the Adventist. the possibility of working as a full-time organization of another health expo, nurse? this time at the United Nations High Sometimes I miss it. But it is impor- Commission for Refugees, also in Lorena Mayer (MA in international tant for me to focus on our needs as a Geneva. I trust this will also be a great communication, University of family. I find it a real privilege to be experience. We have also done other Southern Queensland, Australia) able to work part time, not far from health expos in the École Hôtelière in writes from Bern, Switzerland, home, and keep pace with my profes- Lausanne and in the city of Gland. where she works for a specialized sion, and at the same time be available Everywhere, people get very excited agency of the United Nations. for my family. I cherish the possibility in having us back again. We have E-mail: [email protected]. to cook healthy meals for them, do received some other invitations and things together, and be there for my will definitely have more opportuni- Nathalie Walter: Nathalie. children, who still need me. ties. [email protected]. n Are you involved in other health- n You are very active in your local related activities, now that you have church. What are your preferred activi- more time? ties? I have a passion for health promo- We are members of the Fribourg tion. I’ve had great opportunities Adventist Church, a small congrega- to contribute to health promotion tion but teeming with life and proj- activities organized by the Adventist ects. I am a Sabbath school teacher for church. In 2013, I participated in a young people. I trust God will use me health expo at the United Nations as a positive influence for them, and office in Geneva. Around 600 people bring them closer to God’s Word and working at the Palais des Nations His mission. And, of course, whenever came over and participated in physical there are social projects, particularly and psychological tests. At first, they with ADRA, and health projects, I am looked at us with some skepticism, there. Church life is always very excit- but when they were done with the ing for us! tests and discussions, they would go and tell their colleagues to come. It n What would be your message to the was a treat for me to be able to make readers of Dialogue, particularly those them perhaps more aware of what they who are studying to become nurses? could do to improve their health. I always say that nursing is the most wonderful profession in the world. n How does a health expo concretely You have the opportunity to be close impact participants? to people in their vulnerability, when Something that people find very they want to say or share something. useful and interesting is that, at the You end up receiving more than you end of the tests, they are given their give. This fills me with purpose and biological age. It can be very differ- the desire to go to work every day. ent from their real age, depending What is fascinating about being a on their sleeping, eating, and exercise nurse is that there are many types habits. Lack of good habits will result of work possible, according to one’s in a greater biological age and vice interests, which can match very dif-

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 21 BOOKS these are truly wonders designed by the Creator or two of the consequences of sin. Divinas maravillas: Even though the first and the last sections are related to Evidencias de diseño biology, it is the fourth section that the author has specifi- y planificación [Divine cally titled “Biological Wonders.” In it, he explains biologi- Wonders: Evidence of design cal processes such as pollination, instincts, regeneration, and planning] defenses of living beings in a hostile environment, biologi- by Gerald E. Vyhmeister (Buenos Aires, cal clocks, and bird flight. Argentina: Asociación Casa Editora The author closes by describing the wonders of the Sudamericana, 2012; 224 pages; human body, such as the organs related to the senses and paperback). the functioning of the digestive, excretory, skeletal, cir- culatory, nervous, respiratory, muscular, and reproductive Reviewed by Silvia Schimpf- systems. Torreblanca Besides being a book geared to the general public, which is actually easy for both youth and adults to understand, it can also be used as a support textbook for science classes, Gerald Vyhmeister has a PhD in biology and an EdD especially at the high-school level. In keeping with its origi- degree. He has spent his life teaching science at Seventh- nal intent, and perhaps to prevent the book from appearing day Adventist schools in Chile, Peru, Jamaica, and to be just an academic manual, the author has not included Rwanda. In this book, he deftly combines his knowledge footnotes to support his claims, although a useful bibliog- of nature and his professor’s teaching ability to offer a large raphy provides direction for further assistance and reading. review of essential topics in natural sciences from a stand- We must stress, however, that Vyhmeister contributes point which is clearly on the side of Bible teachings. much needed material for times such as these, when evo- Divine Wonders introduces us to a common thread lution appears – either in explicit or implicit ways – in throughout the text: namely, a description of the various practically every single scientific book. Thus, this work is a wonders of God’s c reative power. Any pantheistic associa- meaningful contribution toward understanding the marvels tion is readily dismissed, since those wonders are not divine of life around us from a creationist perspective. As a scien- in themselves, but, as the title proclaims, evidence of design tist with a biblical and Christian worldview, the author has and planning. Thus, each chapter explicitly introduces us made a valuable contribution to the integration of faith and to God as the Master Designer. learning, and to our understanding of the wonders around The wonders discussed have been grouped into five us without having to question our faith in the God of cre- major sections: wonders in origins, geological wonders, ation. invisible wonders in action, biological wonders, and won- This book is also a thing of beauty to hold in one’s hand. ders in the human body. The book presents a fast-paced It is printed on elegant, coated paper, with exquisite color tour through various areas where we can clearly and defi- pictures and drawings. Students, teachers, parents, and pas- nitely see the works of a wise Creator. tors will find beauty, order, and understanding within its In the first section, “Wonders in Origins,” after introduc- covers, while once again appreciating the wonder of it all: ing the quandary of evolution vs. creation and the limits of God the Creator. science, the author discusses the origin of life, the wonders of the cell and the genome, the origin of human beings, and the debates about how the current variety of organ- Silvia Schimpf-Torreblanca has an MEd in sciences, and isms came to be. The second topical grouping also presents an EdD (Inter American University of Puerto Rico, issues related to origins, but this time from a geological San German campus) with a focus in curriculum and standpoint. Vyhmeister tackles topics such as the age of the teaching. She writes from Puerto Rico, where she earth, the Flood, fossil remains, glaciers, deserts, volcanoes, teaches science and religion for SETAI (Inter-American and earthquakes. Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary). E-mail: The third section, “Invisible Wonders in Action,” dis- [email protected]. cusses a combination of issues: the biblical origin of the week; topics related to physics and chemistry, such as energy, surface tension and buoyancy; and other subjects of interest, such as hunting methods in animals and the pro- cess of aging. In the latter two – feeding through hunting and human senescence – we should ask the author whether

22 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 LOGOS Lost and found by John Wesley Taylor V and Miriam Louise Taylor

When I wrapped my arms around my poor little sheep, it felt like my heart would burst – from anguish because of the pain that she was suffering, and from joy because the search had not been in vain.

“See how He associates with publi- It actually began like any other shepherd and made my escape. I don’t cans and sinners, vile creatures. Such summer day, serene and bright. I felt think that any of the other sheep even scum of the earth!” secure and happy in the flock. I truly realized that I was missing – at least, The rabbis taught that a sinner did not lack any good thing. That none of them gave a cry of alarm. must repent before God would be afternoon, though … I don’t know At first, everything seemed won- inclined to love him, or even pay him what got into me, but I began to feel derful. The grass had never been so attention. And the Pharisees boasted, quite independent and self-sufficient, tasty. The flowers had never seemed “There is great celebration in heaven capable of managing my own affairs. so vivid. I felt daring, free, and very when those who provoke God perish Everything around me was so intrigu- clever. from the earth!” ing! It seemed tedious to forever fol- I began to climb one of the moun- So Jesus told them a story about low where the shepherd led, rather tains that I had been dreaming of grace and pardon, a parable illustrat- than to explore and experience the exploring. Imagine standing on that ing the desire of the Father that no captivating world around me. pinnacle high above the rest of the one should perish, a chronicle of It’s true, at first I did not stray sheep! How they would envy me! God’s love for those who know that very far. Only until something would It was there on that mountainside they are lost but who don’t know the frighten me, and then I would quickly that my problems began. No ... in way home. return. reality it was there that I began to After a time, however, I became realize that I was in trouble. My prob- The loss bolder. After all, nothing drastic had lems had begun when I abandoned my I remember that day toward the happened. Perhaps I would be able to shepherd. Actually, it was before that, end of summer. The grazing lands on take care of myself. Maybe life would when I had convinced myself that I the plains had become parched, and be more thrilling if I did my own thing, could manage things on my own. But there was little water to be found. if I took charge more often! Perhaps it was there on that mountainside, That is why our shepherd had brought there were even better pastures where the shepherd had never taken us to higher ground, camping with us behind that bluff ... . us, that I began to realize that the in one of the highland meadows. So, quietly, I turned my back on the matter was serious.

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 23 There was little pasturage on the wind had started to blow. As it got The search slope; the mountain was covered in dark, I began to feel quite alone and I love my sheep. I love them because a thorny brush. I began to feel quite vulnerable. All my visions of grandeur they are mine. I know each one by empty inside. Hunger growled in my vanished into the thin air. name. stomach. Suddenly, I saw it: a clump Suddenly I heard the scream of a I remember that afternoon when I of grass, right there in a thicket. I wild beast on the mountain, a ter- discovered that one of my sheep was had never felt such an overwhelming rifying sound like I had never heard missing. How did I know? I counted desire for something. I had to have it. before. A chill raced through my them. While it is true that a shepherd With effort, I forced myself into and body. I was frozen to the spot! I could counts his flock each evening as they beneath the brush to reach it. scarcely breathe. enter the sheepfold, even during the The first mouthfuls were delicious! The scream again sliced through the day I frequently number my sheep. If It seemed to be the best grass that night, but this time it seemed even a storm or wild beast has surprised us, I had ever eaten. But as I was finish- closer. I panicked and started running, it is common for some sheep to bolt, ing off the morsel, I began to sense my legs trembling uncontrollably. I gripped with panic at the unexpected a bitter, revolting taste. I regretted was desperate; I had to find the shep- event. having tried it and decided that I had herd! That afternoon, even though every- better get out. But when I tried to I don’t know which direction I ran; thing had been quite peaceful, I felt back out, I discovered that I was in an I couldn’t see anything, and, truthfully, as though something was wrong, as even greater problem. The bush was I didn’t have the slightest idea which if one of the sheep might be missing. a mountain bramble, and it held me way to run. Quickly I checked over the flock, and prisoner. Frantically, I bolted into the dark- indeed, it seemed that one sheep was The more I jerked and struggled to ness, and suddenly my feet no longer not there. After counting them one escape, the more the thorns snagged touched the ground. I found myself more time, I was certain. One of my my wool and buried themselves in my falling, crashing into rocks and roots, sheep had wandered away. One was skin. Finally, panic set in and with a slipping, sliding, tumbling, until I finally lost. great surge of determination, I man- came to rest at the bottom of a small I was worried and anxious. You aged to jerk free. Several bunches of canyon. must understand that sheep are the wool were left behind, however, and I What agony! All of my bones and most helpless and defenseless of all retained a number of the thorns that joints ached, and my head felt as if creatures. Sheep do not possess any had penetrated too deeply. I soon it had split open. I’m not sure, but I natural means of protection against noticed a bright red color staining my think that I must have fainted for a the attacks of an enemy. wool in several places. My lovely wool few moments. You should also know that a sheep, coat! What a fool I had been! When I regained consciousness, I once lost, is not able to find its own I think it was then that I had the realized that I was lying in the mud on way back to the fold. It wanders from first inkling that I really should try the canyon floor. It was a slimy, smelly mountain to ravine, incapable of find- to return and find my shepherd, but ooze – just horrible. I tried to get ing the flock again. If it is not res- it only lasted a moment. The next up, but a sharp pain shot up my left cued, it will wander until it perishes, minute I caught sight of that moun- leg. It was twisted, doubled back in a entangled, perhaps, in briars, mired tain again, and the summit seemed strange way. How it throbbed! in a pit, or trapped in a crevice, in a so much closer now! I had to see the Peering into the darkness, I realized fault. Yes, a sheep for which no one view from the top. What stories I that even if I was fine, it was literally searches, never returns. would have! impossible to climb out and escape So I took my flock to the sheepfold So I continued climbing. At those from the hollow where I had fallen. where they would be safe. On the heights, there was now even less veg- The canyon walls were steep and horizon, dark clouds were gathering. It etation, and I had not found water for crumbling, and within the canyon, the looked as if a storm might hit within a several hours. My throat was burning, rocks were large and difficult to clam- few hours. Furthermore, it was already my tongue felt like sandpaper, and my ber over. late in the day. Night was falling rap- stomach was hurting cruelly, probably I had never felt so bad – so idly. from that clump of bitter grass that I depressed, so alone. If only I could be Quickly, I left a message for my had swallowed. safely in the sheepfold again. If only friends and neighbors that I had gone What began to worry me most, I could again be a part of the flock. out to search for a lost sheep. I didn’t however, was that the sun was begin- Why had I been so foolish… . take time to eat or rest. How could ning to set and a cold, penetrating I sit down and eat, leaving my poor

24 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 sheep to fall victim to some wild of the end. The floor of the canyon By now, I had resigned myself to beast? How could I stretch out and where I lay began to pool. The water die; it wouldn’t be long now. Already I rest, while my sheep stumbled on was frigid, and it soon soaked through had lost almost all feeling in my body, frantically in the darkness? my wool. The cold permeated my and almost all desire to live. I closed the gate to the sheepfold whole body. I began to shake uncon- I was about to slip into uncon- and headed out in search of my poor trollably. sciousness when I heard it ... . It was lost sheep. I wasn’t sure, but I imag- The storm became fierce. The light- as if my shepherd was calling me. ined that perhaps the sheep had start- ning was terrifying. The thunderclaps What a tender dream, but no ... there ed to climb one of the mountains that left me paralyzed with fear. Each time ... I heard it again. It really was the surrounded us. That often happens one fell nearby, I shuddered in panic. voice of my shepherd! He was calling when a sheep is lost. Without warning, a bolt of lightning me. That was my name! So I crossed the high plain, now exploded on a rock at the very edge I don’t know where I found the windswept and desolate, and began of the canyon. I recoiled in terror and strength, but I let out a bleat. It was to climb the steep hillside, searching wished that I would die. Never before very weak, though, and was swept through the tangled brush. I scram- had I felt so terrified. quickly into the darkness. bled up through gullies, clambered Almost as if it were a dream, I At once, I began to feel mortified. over rocky outcroppings, peered over began to think about my shepherd: What if my shepherd were to find precipices, pulling myself over boul- Where would he be now? What me in this miserable condition, in ders and ledges. At nearly every step, would he be doing? Would he be try- this dreadful state – fallen into this I called my sheep by name, but there ing to calm some of the lambs, tak- quagmire, disobedient, guilty, stained. was no answer. ing them in his arms, as he often did Would he stand there, looking at me Night had fallen with a dense dark- when a storm would break? with condemnation and reproach? ness. The storm that I had seen on Could it be that he had noticed that Would he scold me and harshly tell the horizon began to lash the region. I was missing? What would he think me that I shouldn’t have become lost? Lightning flashed from angry clouds of me? Maybe he would sigh, “Well, I already knew that. Would he glare at and streaked across the sky. Thunder let her go, if she wants to. The 99 are me, uttering sharp words of reproof rolled through the canyons. A chill- good enough for me.” The truth was, and criticism? Well, he would have all ing, hostile wind swept down from the I was not a ram nor a prized lamb – the right to do so, but I didn’t think mountain peaks and whipped across only a generic sheep, common and that I could endure it. That would be the barren landscape. The fury of a ordinary. more painful than all that I had been freezing rain pelted down. Maybe he had thought of looking through already. As the storm became more intense, for me. But would he think, “Well, So I lowered my head and kept I felt ever greater anxiety and dread. A it’s just too much trouble. When she silent. It would be best if he never sheep exposed to the elements under comes back, then I will open the gate. found me, if he never saw me … . such conditions can perish in a very I’m surely not going out to look for short time. I had to give everything her on a night like this.” When I heard that faint and terri- that I had to find my sheep … before If only it hadn’t been so late in the fied cry, my heart leaped for joy! My it was too late. day when I wandered away, maybe he little sheep was still alive. My sheep So intense was my resolve that I would have at least tried to find me. If needed me. My relief, however, was hardly realized that I was exhausted, only I hadn’t strayed so far away from short lived. The weakness of the cry starving, and chilled to the bone. I the fold ... if only I hadn’t fallen into warned me that there was not much hardly felt the briars that snagged this desolate canyon ... if only ... . time left. In fact, I had not heard any my ankles, the rough stones that cut It seemed almost impossible now further cries. my hands. I hardly noticed that I that I would find my poor lost sheep. Frantically, I ran in the direction was shivering violently as a result of I had been searching for her almost from which the sound had come. the downpour and from fording the the entire night. What made a lump in Stumbling through the darkness, I mountain streams. my throat, though, was to think that if arrived at the edge of a rocky canyon. Regardless of the pain, I had to find I finally found her, it might already be Could it be that she was somewhere my lost sheep. too late. down there? But I must not lose hope; I had to Almost without thinking, I started The find find her. I called again and again, but to slide toward the floor of the can- When the storm descended, I my words seemed to be lost in the yon. thought that it was the beginning wind and the darkness.

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 25 Lessons from A small avalanche of stones on the Rejoice with me and celebrate! My other side of the canyon signaled that sheep was almost dead, but now is the loss something, someone, was rapidly alive again; she was lost, but now she descending the embankment. I don’t is found!” A lost sheep cannot save itself. know how I knew it, but I just felt Lost sheep will perish unless that it had to be my shepherd. My heart was also bursting, from someone goes after them, to search for For a moment, I felt the impulse to anguish because of the pain and anxi- them and bring them back to the fold. flee, to try and escape from his pres- ety that I had caused him, but also One lost sheep was enough to start ence, but then I paused. It was fleeing from joy for having the shepherd Jesus on the search. from my shepherd that had brought that I have. As the neighbors came Lessons from the search: me to this crisis. If he had come this out of their cabins and congratulated The trouble and anxiety caused by far to look for me, maybe he still my shepherd, I looked down at his a sheep’s wandering do not depreciate loved me. hands, wounded and bleeding, torn the value of that sheep. I gave one more little cry, and and scarred, and my heart filled with The search for a lost sheep must be instantly he was there. He stooped a love impossible to describe. A love done personally, with sacrifice. down, falling on his knees by my side. that no longer could be contained The effectiveness of salvation does He scooped me into his arms, burying within me. not consist in our seeking after God, his face in my wool. How I wish that you had a shepherd but in His search for us. He didn’t reproach me. He didn’t like mine. condemn me. He didn’t even speak of Lessons from the find: The search is not over until the all of the anxiety and pain that I had Note: This dialogue, set in the con- sheep is found and brought back to the caused him. He only took me tenderly text of shepherding in biblical times, fold. in his arms and pressed me close to is based on Christ’s parable of the lost Some people have the idea that his heart, the warmth of his own life sheep, as recorded in Matthew 18:12- when a child of God falls, God reviving me. 13 and in Luke 15:1-7. As Christ’s becomes disgusted, fed up, and furious. parable is, in reality, about people who This is simply not so. The celebration are lost and found, this story is told in God does not demand, “Get your When I wrapped my arms around the first person from the perspective of act together first.” He simply asks us to my poor little sheep, it felt like my the individuals involved in the story, let Him draw near. heart would burst – from anguish using Christ’s metaphor of the sheep Lessons from the because of the pain that she was suf- and the Shepherd – Editors. celebration: fering, and from joy because the God rejoices in doing us good. search had not been in vain. The joy of salvation must be shared. Carefully, we made our way out of John Wesley Taylor V (PhD, We cannot be happy without Jesus, the canyon and headed for home. It Andrews University; EdD, and He, in His great love, cannot be was just before dawn. Soon the sun University of Virginia) is an satisfied without us. would break over the horizon. associate director of education I was so filled with emotion, so for the General Conference of thankful that I did not have to return Seventh-day Adventists, and alone, that my joy found expression an editor of Dialogue. Miriam in shouts of thanksgiving. I began to Louise Taylor serves as executive sing out a song that lasted all the way assistant in the Secretariat of the home, “Rejoice! Rejoice! For I have General Conference. Their e-mail: found my sheep that was lost!” [email protected]. As we neared home, I called out to my friends and neighbors, “Come!

26 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 FIRST PERSON Be still and know by Joy Devaraj How the words of Psalm 46:9 rescued one out of death to a new resurrection, out of shame and abuse to a life of fulfillment, out of nothingness into a gem of God’s own glory – A true story.

Sundari looked down the those were taken over by the greed of a moment, and whispered to herself, bridge into the gushing waters of those who knew him longer than she “To jump is better than to live in Thamiravaruni, the river that feeds did. “Knowing longer” seemed more abuse.” Suddenly, that resolve turned the southern part of Tamil Nadu, important than the Edenic tie that into a question, even as she tightly India. She was not admiring the fish bound the hearts of two in wedlock. clasped the two little gifts love had that danced up, down, and round With one heart gone, the other heart bestowed upon her: “To jump or about in the waters below, nor was she had claim for a place to live. At least not to jump?” And then, as if from watching the fishermen in small boats that was the definition of family in nowhere, memory flooded her soul eagerly trying to make their living for the biblical sense. But to all her rela- and confronted her with a promise the day. With a two-year-old daughter tives, near and far, she became a non- she had learnt as a child and used to on her waist, and a four-year-old son person, a castaway object of just flesh face every challenge – whatever the in the tight grasp of one hand, she and blood. kind – that she had met in her 23 could only think of another woman of Thus Sundari became the object years of life. The promise was as old long ago, who with sorrow and grief of abuse. She had no one to stand up as humanity, as fresh as the Spirit that cried out, “The Almighty has dealt for her, to protect her from being bat- gave it in the first place: “Be still, and very bitterly with me” (Ruth 1:20).* tered, both verbally and physically. know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). Sundari thought her bitterness had Her house and land and money were Come wind, come weather. Come filled her cup and was overflowing. usurped. Her dignity was defiled. Her rain, come shine. Come sorrow, come Married at 18, mother of two beauti- hopes were crushed. The few personal joy. Come abuse, come hopelessness. ful children, she was now widowed items she had were bundled up and Come hatred from those closest to at 23 – left to experience the curse thrown out along with her. Being you, come a sliver of hope that comes of poverty and stare at the wilder- driven out of a beautiful house into a and disappears as the dew in the ness of time ahead. Even before her thatched hut was the last straw that morning. Sundari reflected on the tears could dry, she became the broke her heart. With nowhere to go, burden that she carried, and behold object of derision, abuse, scorn. Not no one to lean upon, two babies to God seemed to tap on her shoulders from strangers – that one can brush care for, she decided to take a walk to and whisper into her soul, “Be still, away – but from family, both near the bridge over the river. know, I am your God.” and extended. Her husband had left Sundari looked below. For the last Sundari gripped her children ever her a large house and property, but time, she thought. She pondered for so closely to her, turned her back on

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 27 the river, and walked firmly back to the frightened and the abused, He is has said that each day some 50,000 the village. Home or no home, love or the refuge. For the weak and the per- thoughts cross the average mind. hatred, whatever was or whatever was secuted, He is the strength. For those Those thoughts aren’t always pretty. not, she knew one thing for sure: God who stand on a bridge over rushing You know the ones: “I can’t believe I is, and with that her faith grasped the waters, He offers the reach of His messed up, I can’t do it, it’s too hard, promise: “All things are possible for hand and the embrace of His love and I’m a failure, I’m a fraud, I’m too old, one who believes” (Mark 9:23, ESV). watch care. I’m too young, he is no good.” We She learnt to be still, to be at peace So, be still. That does not mean “be must learn to tell our fearful and anx- with herself. She learnt what it means inactive.” It means, stop striving, stop ious thoughts to hush. One sure way to have faith in God. She resolved to struggling by yourself, for yourself, or to hush our negative thoughts is to live by that faith, and to live for her in yourself. One of the great tempta- join the psalmist in quiet meditation children. From that moment on, she tions of life is the dynamic of “I” – I and say to ourselves, “Be still … and worked hard at any job that came her can do it; I can solve any problem; I know that God is.” way – on the paddy fields, at home, am my own solution. While self-con- Second, know. The psalmist’s in the banana plantations. She worked fidence is a virtue one should strive answer to human anxiety, worry, and six days a week, rested on the Sabbath, for, that in itself is not sufficient to go wondering why bad things happen to and kept her hope alive by the four through the tumults and torrents we good people is to know that God is, little bright eyes of her children. In face in life. At the end of it all, there and that He will bring about the best those eyes she saw the fulfillment of stands a bridge over perilous waters. out of our suffering. That’s what my her dreams, the smile of her husband, Before we come to that moment of mother experienced. She faced the and above all God’s plan for them. If peril, it is good to know and affirm sudden death of her husband, encoun- work was her way, trust in God was that with God every impossibility tered abuse and suffering from those her light, and the hope for her kids becomes a possibility. So let go, let who should have been the source of was the ever-burning motive. God. For He “is a very present help in her strength, and faced a dark and Sundari is now 68 years old. Her trouble” (vs. 2), and therefore we need uncertain future. While she knew not children and grandchildren call her not fear. her future, she knew Him who held blessed. They too share her foundation “Be still” also reminds us of the her in the palms of His everlasting for a life of fulfillment: “Be still and great storm that rolled over the Sea of hands. know that I am God.” Galilee, threatening to topple the boat The knowledge of God that the the disciples were traveling in, while psalmist talks about is not a theoreti- I know this story is true. I am Jesus slept, exhausted and tired after cal knowledge. Knowledge of God Sundari’s daughter. She endured every a day-long ministry of teaching and is not history, not philosophy, not sorrow, bore every heartache, turned healing. The disciples, in panic, woke geography, not even theology. It is per- away from the fatal leap into the cold Jesus and wondered whether He cared sonal, experiential, and practical. Like waters of the river, to give my brother for the tragedy at hand. The response Job, we need to cry out, “I know that and me an opportunity to know life, of Jesus was to rebuke the wind and my Redeemer lives” (Job 19:25), and to have an Adventist education – and the waves, and command, “Peace, be in tune with God’s will and way. more than that, to experience for be still!” (Mark 4:39). The Creator’s Only then we can say God is in our ourselves the promise that sustained command “Be still” simply means midst and we “shall not be moved” her all through her torturous life. As “Hush.” (Ps. 46:5). a result, her favorite verse became the The answer to human panic is still Third, “be still and know that I foundation of my faith. hush. And listen. How often do we am God.” The ultimate refuge and What have I learnt? ask God for everything, but we don’t defense for a hurting Christian is First, be still. Psalm 46 speaks of stop to listen or be still? The act of to experience the “One who says I fearsome earthquakes, roaring seas, being still becomes more of a chal- am God.” He is a personal God. He crumbling mountains, raging king- lenge in our hectic world. The world knows you by name. He knows where doms, fear-torn human beings. In and wants us to be busy. God asks us to you live. He wants to live within you through it all, through every crack be still so that we can hear the still (Rev. 3:20). He wants to be the com- and instability that characterizes the small voice and know that beyond manding presence and power in your flow of humanity, there is an immov- the storms of life, there is the rest and life. Only then can He change the able and ever-abiding assurance: “God peace that only God can give. course of your life – from the edge of is our refuge and strength” (Ps. 46:1). Along with panic and fear, anx- destruction to the pinnacle of God’s For the homeless, He is the home. For ious thoughts plague us. Someone mountain of joy.

28 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 Sundari means beautiful. That In Siiico Biology: An International Journal on How should Computational Molecular Biology, http://www. beauty was threatened at one time – Christians ... bioinfo.de/isb. debased, crushed, and nearly forgot- From page 12 20. For instance, in Europe, the European ten in the rushing waters of a swollen Union’s Office of Consumer Affairs has issued a directive that prohibits cosmetics river. But the words of Psalm 46:9 companies from testing their products on rescued Sundari out of death to a new Environment,” Journal of Biblical Literature animals see http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/ resurrection, out of shame and abuse 116 (1997) 1:3-17. scctors/cosmetics/documents/directive/index- 12. Richard Bauckham, The Bible and Ecology: en.htm). Available at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/ to a life of fulfillment, out of nothing- Rediscovering the Community of Creation LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=CONSLEG: ness into a gem of God’s own glory (Waco, Texas: Baylor University Press, 2010), 1976L0768: 2010030 l:en:PDF. – along with her children. What God 37. 21. While common reference to this test often 13. Ibid. Preface. refers to the rabbit dying as a result of these has wrought! 14. Ibid. 33, 34. pregnancy tests, this was only true in the early 15. Seventh-day Adventists Believe, 99. versions of the test in the 1920s. In keeping 16. “Caring for Creation – A Statement on the with the three Rs approach, later refinement Environment,” available at http://adventist. of the test simply allowed for the examination Joy Devaraj (MS in nursing org/beliefs/statements/main-stat5.html; of the rabbit’s ovaries to see whether or not education, Grand Canyon “Statement on the Environment,” available at the woman’s urine had a measurable effect on http://adventist.org/beliefs/statements/main- them. See http://diiopes.com/pregnant/rab- University) is an assistant director stat9.html; “Statement on Stewardship of the bit.asp. of nurses at Sanctuary at Holy Environment,” available at http://adventist. 22. See Carl Howard, “Yes, Dad, There are Cross, Silver Spring, Maryland, org/beliefs/statements/main-stat 10.html. Alternatives,” AV Magazine, a publication 17. These quotes appear in both “Statement of the American Anti-Vivisection Society, USA. E-mail: joynewbegin@gmail. on the Environment,” available at http:// Spring, 2005. Available at http://caat.jhsph. com. adventist.org/beliefs/statements/main-stat9. edu/publications/Arliclcs/aavs.html. html and “Statement on Stewardship of the 23. I offer my appreciation to David Wolf, DVM, Environment,” available at http://adventist. PhD, the chief veterinarian at Loma Linda org/beliefs/statements/main-statlO.html. University. He was particularly helpful in * Except as otherwise stated, all Scripture pas- 18. Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory my effort to understand animal research. sages are from the New King James Version. Animals (NRC 2011), 5 (PDF, 32). Available Additionally, I thank Stacey Butler, School of at http://www.aaalac.org/resources/ Medicine class of 2014, for offering helpful Guide_2011 .pdf. criticism of an early version of the essay. 19. For instance, there is a journal entirely devot- ed to molecular biology via computer: ISB

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 29 FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Universities BOTSWANA CAMEROON Kanye Seventh-day Adventist Université Adventiste Cosendai The Seventh-day Adventist Church College of Nursing Location: Nanga Eboko operates an international network of Location: Kanye Contact: www.uacosendai-edu.net colleges and universities that offer Contact: [email protected] academic and professional programs in CANADA many fields. This list includes accred- BRAZIL Canadian University College ited post-secondary institutions. Faculdade Adventista da Amazonia Location: Lacombe, Alberta Location: Benavides, Pará Contact: [email protected] ANGOLA Contact: [email protected] www.cauc.ca Seminario Adventista do Bongo www.faama.edu.br Location: Huambo CHILE Contact: [email protected] Centro Universitário Adventista de Universidad Adventista de Chile São Paulo Location: Chillán ARGENTINA Location: Campus Engenheiro Coelho, Contact: [email protected] Instituto Superior Adventista de São Paulo www.unach.cl Misiones Contact: [email protected] Location: Leandro N. Alem, Misiones www.unasp-ec.edu.br COLOMBIA Contact: [email protected] Corporación Universitaria www.isam.edu.ar Location: Campus Hortolândia, São Adventista Paulo Location: Medellín Universidad Adventista del Plata Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.unac.edu.co Location: Lib. San Martín, Entre Ríos www.iasp.br Contact: [email protected] CONGO, DEMOCRATIC www.uap.edu.ar Location: Campus São Paulo, São REPUBLIC of Paulo Université Adventiste de Lukanga AUSTRALIA Contact: [email protected] Location: Lubero, Butembo Avondale College of Higher www.unasp-sp.edu.br Contact: [email protected] Education www.uniluk.org Location: Cooranbong, N.S. Wales Faculdade Adventista de Minas Contact: www.avondale.edu.au Gerais COSTA RICA Location: Lavras, Minas Gerais Universidad Adventista de AUSTRIA Contact: [email protected] Centroamérica Seminar Schloss Bogenhofen www.fadminas.org.br Location: Alajuela Location: Peter am Hart Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Faculdade Adventista da Bahia www.unadeca.net www.bogenhofen.at Location: Cachoeira, Bahia Contact: www.iaene.br CROATIA BANGLADESH Adventisticko Teolosko Visoko Bangladesh Adventist Seminary and Faculdade Adventista Paranaense Uciliste College Location: Ivatuba, Parana Location: Marusevec Location: Gowalbathan, Gazipur Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] www.iap.org.br www.atvu.org www.bascollege-bdg.org BULGARIA CZECH REPUBLIC BOLIVIA Theological College “Stephan Teologicky Seminar CASD Universidad Adventista de Bolivia Konstantinov” Location: Sazava Location: Vinto, Cochabamba Location: Sofia Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.uab.edu.bo Contact: [email protected] www.tscasd.cz www.sdabg-college.org

30 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 CUBA GHANA Vellore Adventist College of Seminario Teológico Adventista de Valley View University Education Cuba Location: Accra Location: Otteri, Vellore Location: Santiago de las Vegas Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.sdaschoolvellore.com Contact: [email protected] www.vvu.edu.gh Indonesia

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HAITI Universitas Advent Indonesia Universidad Adventista Dominicana Université Adventiste d’Haïti Location: Bandung, Java Location: Sonador, Bonao Location: Port-au-Prince Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.unah.edu.ht www.unai.edu www.unad.edu.do HONG KONG Universitas Klabat ECUADOR Hong Kong Adventist College Location: Airmadidi Bawah, North Instituto Tecnológico Superior Location: Hong Kong Sulawesi Adventista del Ecuador Contact: www.hkac.edu Contact: www.unklab.ac.id Location: Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas HUNGARY Surya Nusantara Adventist College Contact: www.itsae.edu.ec Adventista Teologiai Foiskola Location: Kota Pematang Siantar, Location: Pécel, Budapest Sumatra ENGLAND Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.suryanusantara.ac.id Newbold College of Higher www.atf.adventista.hu Education ITALY Location: Bracknell, Berkshire INDIA Istituto Avventista di Cultura Contact: [email protected] Flaiz Adventist College Biblica Villa Aurora www.newbold.ac.uk Location: Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh Location: Florence Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] ETHIOPIA www.flaiz.net www.villaaurora.it Ethiopia Adventist College Location: Kuyera Lowry Adventist College JAMAICA Contact: www.eac.edu.et Location: Doorvani Nagar, Bangalore Northern Caribbean University Contact: [email protected] Location: Mandeville FIJI www.lowryinstitutions.org Contact: [email protected] Fulton College www.ncu.edu.jm Location: Tailevu METAS of Seventh-day Adventist Contact: [email protected] College JAPAN www.fulton.ac.fj Location: Surat, Gujarat Saniku Gakuin College Contact: www.metasofsda.in Location: Otaki-machi, Chiba FRANCE Contact: [email protected] Campus Adventiste du Salève Northeast Adventist College www.saniku.ac.jp Location: Collonges-sous-Salève, Location: Jowai, Meghalaya Haute Savoie Contact: www.neacollege.com KENYA Contact: [email protected] Adventist University of Africa www.campusadventiste.edu Roorkee Adventist College Location: Ongata Rongai, Nairobi Location: Roorkee, Uttarakhand Contact: [email protected] GERMANY Contact: [email protected] www.aua.ac.ke Theologische Hochschule Friedensau Spicer Adventist University University of Eastern Africa Location: Moeckern-Friedensau Location: Pune, Maharashtra Baraton Contact: hochschule@thh-friedensau. Contact: www.spiceradventistuniver- Location : Eldoret de sity.org Contact: [email protected] www.thh-friedensau.de www.ueab.a.ke

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 31 KOREA Universidad de Navojoa Location: Campus Juliaca Sahmyook Bogeon Daehakgyo Location: Navojoa, Sonora Contact: www.upeu.edu.pe Location: Dongdaemun-ku, Seoul Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] www.unav.edu.mx Location: Campus Tarapoto Contact: www.upeu.edu.pe Samhmyook Daehakgyo MOZAMBIQUE Location: Nowon-gu, Seoul Seminario Adventista do Setimo PHILIPPINES Contact: [email protected] Dia de Moçambique Adventist International Institute of www.syu.ac.kr Location: Beira Advanced Studies Contact: mozambiqueunion@gmail. Location: Silang, Cavite LEBANON com Contact: www.aiias.edu Middle East University Location: Sabtieh, Beirut MYANMAR Adventist University of the Contact: [email protected] Myanmar Union Adventist Philippines www.meu.edu.lb Seminary Location: Silang, Cavite Location: Myaungmya Contact: [email protected] LESOTHO Contact: [email protected] www.aup.edu.ph Maluti School of Nursing Location: Mapoteng NIGERIA Central Philippine Adventist Contact: www.maluti-adventist-hospi- Babcock University College tal.org Location: Ilisan-Remo, Ogun Location: Murcia, Negros Occidental Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.cpac.edu.ph MADAGASCAR www.babcockuni.edu.ng Université Adventiste Zurcher Manila Adventist College Location: Sambaina, Antsirabe PAKISTAN Location: Pasay City, Manila Contact: [email protected] Pakistan Adventist Seminary and Contact: [email protected] www.uaz.adventisthost.org College Location: Farooqabad Mandi, Mindanao Sanitarium and Hospital MALAWI Sheikhupura College Malawi Adventist University Contact: www.pasc.edu.pk Location: Iligan City, Mindanao Location: Ntcheu Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] PAPUA NEW GUINEA www.mau.ac.mw Pacific Adventist University Mountain View College Location: Koiari Park, Port Moresby Location: Valencia City, Mindanao MALAYSIA Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Penang Adventist College of www.pau.ac.pg www.mvc.edu.ph Nursing Location: Penang Sonoma Adventist College Naga View Adventist College Contact: [email protected] Location: Kokopo, New Britain Island Location: Naga City, Bicol www.pah.com.my Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected]

MEXICO PARAGUAY Northern Luzon Adventist College Universidad Linda Vista Universidad Adventista del Location: Sison, Pangasinan Location: Solistahuacan, Chiapas Paraguay Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Location: Asunción www.nlac.edu.ph www.ulv.edu.mx Contact: [email protected] www.unapy.edu.py South Philippine Adventist College Universidad de Montemorelos Location: Matanao, Mindanao Location: Montemorelos, Nuevo León PERU Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Universidad Peruana Unión www.spaconline.org www.um.edu.mx Location: Campus Ñaña, Lima Contact: www.upeu.edu.pe

32 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 POLAND THAILAND Pacific Union College Wyzsza Szkola Teologiczno- Asia-Pacific International Location: Angwin, California Humanistyczna University Contact:www.puc.edu Location: Podkowa Lesna Location: Muak Lek, Saraburi Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.apiu.edu Southern Adventist University www.wsth.pl Location: Collegedale, Tennessee TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO Contact: www.southern.edu ROMANIA University of the Southern Institutul Teologic Adventist Caribbean Southwestern Adventist University Location: Cernica, Ilfov Location: St. Joseph, Port of Spain Location: Keene, Texas Contact: secretariat@institutadventist. Contact: www.usc.edu.tt Contact: [email protected] ro www.swau.edu www.institutadventist.ro UGANDA Bugema University Union College RUSSIA Location: Zirobwe Rd., Kampala Location: Lincoln, Nebraska Zaokskaya Adventistkaya Contact: www.bugemauniv.ac.ug Contact: [email protected] Akademiya I Institut www.ucollege.edu Location: Zaok sk y, Tula UKRAINE Contact: [email protected] Ukrayinskyi Adventystkyi Tsentr Universidad Adventista de las Vyschoyi Antillas RWANDA Location: Bucha, Kiev Location: Mayagüez, Puerto Rico Adventist University of Central Africa Contact: www.ugi.edu.ua Contact: [email protected] Location: Kigali www.seminary-sda.org www.uaa.edu Contact: [email protected] www.auca.ac.rw UNITED STATES AND Walla Walla University PUERTO RICO Location: College Place, Washington SERBIA Adventist University of Health Contact: [email protected] Teoloski Fakultet Beograd Sciences www.wallawalla.edu Location: Belgrade Location: Orlando, Florida Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.adu.edu Washington Adventist University www.tfv.edu.rs Location: Takoma Park, Maryland Andrews University Contact: www.wau.edu SOUTH AFRICA Location: Berrien Springs, Michigan Helderberg College Contact: [email protected] VENEZUELA Location: Cape Town www.andrews.edu Instituto Universitario Adventista Contact: www.hbc.ac.za de Venezuela Kettering College Location: Nirgua, Yaracuy SPAIN Location: Kettering, Ohio Contact: www.iunav.com Seminario Adventista Español Contact: [email protected] Location: Sagunto, Valencia www.kc.edu ZAMBIA Contact: [email protected] Rusangu University www.esdes.eu La Sierra University Location: Monze Location: Riverside, California Contact: [email protected] TAIWAN Contact: www.lasierra.edu www.rusangu-university.edu.zm San Yu Chi Du Shue Yuan Location: Yu Chi, Nantou County Loma Linda University ZIMBABWE Contact: www.sdatac.org.tw Location: Loma Linda, California Solusi University Contact: www.llu.edu Location: Bulawayo TANZANIA Contact: [email protected] The University of Arusha Oakwood University www.solusi.ac.zw Location: Ngongongare, Arumeru District Location: Huntsville, Alabama Contact: [email protected] Contact: www.oakwood.edu www.universityofarusha.ac.tz

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 33 A look at the 60th General Conference Session by Wilona Karimabadi

Adventists count attending a or move on to other callings. While You’ll find many ministries offering General Conference Session as one of delegates to the meetings will take an resources and information sessions the highlights of their lives. Indeed, active part in decision-making, thou- throughout the exhibition hall as well. the opportunity to “Adventize” a sands of church members and visitors This session also offers something prominent city, filling a major sports will witness the process. significant for the millennial set: stadium to the rafters with fellow “Any church member, worker or Impact San Antonio (iSA). This is believers from all over the world, fel- lay person, may attend GC Session,” the latest installment in a series that lowshipping and worshipping together, adds Ng. “The business meetings of has run concurrently with previ- is a special experience. During the church are conducted openly and ous GC Sessions. According to its Sabbath, when thousands of visitors can be seen and heard by anyone. website, “Impact San Antonio is a flood the venue, the event turns into Transparency is the order of the day.” window of opportunity for the global a giant mega-church/camp meeting/ If you are curious about the inner Seventh-day Adventist young adult reunion of sorts. workings of major church business, community (18+) to bring hope to this event presents an opportunity to the city. Organized in conjunction 60 sessions in come and see for yourself. with General Conference Session, The upcoming gathering will mark iSA is an initiative of the GC Youth the 60th General Conference Session, Big Sabbaths in a big house Department, hosted by the NAD during which delegates from all cor- If you’ve ever attended a large sports Youth Department.” ners of the world will assemble to event in a major stadium, you’ve During any GC Session, the Impact study, pray, worship, and review the likely noticed that there are a lot of movement provides unique service onward progress of the church during people in the same place at the same opportunities in the host city, running the previous five years and plan for time. But imagine that crowd as fam- the gamut from street art to com- the challenging times ahead. ily members – folks with whom you munity service, health ministry, and The upcoming session – to be held share something deeply in common. even an outdoor youth rally/concert. July 2 to 11, 2015, in San Antonio, Sabbaths in San Antonio will be a Information can be found at www. Texas – will certainly address some big occasion but not just for the main impactsa2015.com. hot-button topics. “Many important service portion of the day. There will Which leads us to that host city issues will be in focus at the session,” also be Friday night vespers programs itself: San Antonio, Texas. It’s a pretty says General Conference secretary on a much bigger scale than what you nice city to explore. For accommoda- G.T. Ng. “Matters pertaining to the might be used to. tions, see: visitsanantonio.com/eng- church manual and fundamental lish/browse-book/lodging. beliefs will be discussed. Of interest About that host city San Antonio is perhaps most famous will be the decisions relating to wom- So what else is there to do? Every for the Alamo – a former mission en’s ordination.” GC Session includes a vast exhibition which was the site of an important As with all sessions, nominating hall in the convention center, featur- battle during the Texas revolution. committee reports will be a major ing booths from many Adventist enti- Other attractions to consider include agenda item, as world church leaders ties. And yes, you will be filling up Missions National Historical Park, the will either continue on in their posts bags with lots of Adventist souvenirs. River Walk and River Walk Cruise,

34 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 Alamodome - San Antonio The concluding Sabbath brings in more than 70,000 people as seen in Atlanta, Georgia at the 2010 Session.

Sea World San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Morgan’s Wonderland (the world’s only ultra-accessible theme park for people of all abili- th ties), the San Antonio Zoo, Botanical 60 General Gardens, and Japanese Tea Garden.

See you there? Conference Session There are great reasons to attend a GC Session, as there is something for everyone to be found there. While July 2-11, 2015 the host city has much to offer, there is indeed a great blessing to be found from the meetings themselves. You Henry B Gonzalez will hear renowned speakers and enjoy Convention Center wonderful music. You will be remind- ed of the amazing internationality of 200 East Market Street this church, and you will hopefully San Antonio, Texas 78203 renew your personal faith. Truthfully, you will likely never have the oppor- Alamodome tunity to worship with the sheer 100 Montana Street magnitude of this many like-minded San Antonio, Texas 78203 believers until heaven. And that alone is an experience that points us to what we can look forward to. Theme: Arise! Shine! Jesus Is Coming!

Wilona Karimabadi is the KidsView There’s an app for that too! editor for Adventist Review. To learn more about the official GC Session 2015 app and all the other important details, visit 2015.gcsession.org

DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014 35 English • French • Portuguese • Spanish

Some things never change — such as Dialogue’s mission and focus. Other things, though, are updated and enhanced — such as new ways in which you can access Dialogue. We want you to know that Dialogue is now available online, in addition to the regular printed format. At the Dialogue site, you will have the opportunity to read all of the articles, from the very beginning of Dialogue to the present. Additionally, you can read the articles in any of the four languages in which Dialogue is published. So spread the good news to your friends and colleagues, so they can be a part of Dialogue. We want to Dialogue with everyone, everywhere! dialogue.adventist.org

36 DIALOGUE 26 • 3 2014