UNITY • CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM

ADVENTIST

WEEKLY NEWS AND INSPIRATION FOR SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS MAY 25, 1995

How to Minister to Those Who Mourn

LE I I ERS

The Review Around the World The Lawlessness of Disease Knowing God's Mind Just a quick note to let you know "An Apple a Day" (Mar. 30) helped Statements that occasionally occur how much I appreciate the Review and me add another reason to my list of in the RevieW cause me to squirm theo- how exceptional I thought the March why good people suffer sickness in logically. They make unqualified 16 issue was. As the ADRA director spite of following the laws of health. claims to know the mind of God, such here in Mongolia, I am somewhat My list includes: as: "God wants . . ." "It is God's plait removed from the Adventist main- 1. Death comes to all eventually. to.. "God intervened in . . .""God stream. The Review is a blessing to our 2. Heredity—"unto the third and rewarded . . ." and "The Holy Spirit family and is the only regular link we fourth generation." Some people led ..." have with the church at large. I was When do assumptioni become unjus- especially impressed with the blunt tifiable presumptions? and challenging article on small 563 and Counting Robert Lee Marsh churches ("Shall We Close Small L& Canada-Flintridge, California Our notice in the March 16 Schools and Churches?"). I enjoy arti- issue about new vistas for the cles in the Review that grapple with Love Story Adventist Review with the invita- real problems and do it without a sug- As an Adventist writer I'm privi- tion to complete the little survey arcoating. Scott Christianson leged to write about many fine peo- is bringing an avalanche of ([email protected]) ple. One such person, Janis Sherfey, responses. So far we have provedp be the epitome of courage. received 563 letters, with more Many, many thanks for giving us an I'm sorry to report that she passed arriving daily. And a great many opportunity to read your interesting away shortly before "One Family's responses not only include the magazine since July 1994. In the name Love Story " (Mar. 16) was pub- survey but add a page or more of of the members of the Seventh-day lished. Certainly she was a role ideas! Adventist denomination in Valka, I model for those, facing adversity. She This is a wonderful response; want to say how much we appreciate was not one to latnent her lot; rather, we are gratified by the interest of your gift. she praised God for His blessings, readers in helping us shape the For us, the Adventist Review repre- especially for her late husband, future of the Review. Thank you! sents more than entertaining reading. Hugh. Your support means much to us. We read it and learn from it. Betty Kossick And exciting plans are coming B. Baika Cadillac, Michigan together. Valka, Latvia Immediately after our work on Sinners, Smart and Dumb the General Conference session During the past four years I have been You did it again—printed a story, bulletins we will share th6e plans around the world—I am in the United "Thief!" (Feb. NAD issue), that is with readers. Look for a summary States Army. Uncle Sam manages to worth the whole year's subscription to of the survey results in our send me somewhere every six months the good old Review. August 10 issue. or so. Last month I returned from There are two kinds of sinners— Haiti. smart sinners and dummies. Thank you, Wherever I go the Adventist Review have naturally stronger immune sys- Johanna, from anOther dumb sinner. follows me. I never ordered the maga- tems. A born-again §6-year oldie. zine. Someone somewhere put my 3. Environment=seeondhand smoke, Vernon Oliver, Sr. name on your mailing list. I am not the diet in developing countries, etc. Chattanooga, Tennessee only one who benefits from your pub- 4. Stress. lication. I leave the copies around the 5. Personal choice—diet, sin, detachment when I am done. They lifestyle, guilt, etc. This isolated pastor's family always get picked up eventually. 6. The devil (as in the case of Job). enjoys the Review. It helps us feel Thank you so much for your dedica- 7. The lawlessness of disease. connected to the church. I tore out tion to the Adventists in the military. While obeying the laws of health and "Divided, We Crawl" and gave it Your publication is very much appre- belief in Jesus Christ give vigor and to my husband. I expect that I'll ciated. hope that can change and uplift the be tearing out more articles in the Richard D. Ross immune system, we're still in the devil's weeks ahead and saying, "Hey (internet!aol.com!ROCKRANGR) environment, and he doesn't like us. honey, look at this!" 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) John Erhard K. Lindensmith Fort Bragg, North Carolina Apopka, Florida McClusky, North Dakota 2 (546) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995

ADVENTIS 1

MAY 25. 1995

DEPARTMENTS ARTICLES

2 Letters LIFESTYLE

6 Newsbreak 8 How to Minister to Those Who Mourn How odd that just when friends and family need the most sup- 13 Faith Alive! port we feel the most inept. Here's help. by Colleen L. Reece 21 Bulletin Board EDUCATION 23 Reflections 10 Reflections of a Former University President 10 Reflections What are the critical issues facing Adventist higher education, and what will the future hold? by W. Richard Lesher EDITORIALS

4 Of Power, HERITAGE Influence, and 14 Kellogg's Counsel to Church Critics Conformity His keen intellect made him an "expert" on many subjects. 5 Caution: Learning But perhaps John Harvey Kellogg's most valuable advice was Curve Ahead how to deal with problems in the church. by James R. Nix

THEOLOGY

NEXT WEEK 16 Unity It's hard to define, but it's easy to tell when it's there—and 20 Cutting through "Confessions of a when it isn't. by Mario Veloso the red tape Closet Adventist" Is it only the public's mis- WORLD REPORT conceptions about Adventists that make 19 Deluge! us timid about sharing Wind and rain, lightning and thunder. It didn't stop the people our faith? from attending, or the Holy Spirit from working.

by Jim Zachary Cover photo by J. B. Gross/H. Armstrong Roberts

General paper of the Marketing Representative To Writers: We welcome unsolicited Subscription queries and changes Teds credited to NEB are from The AtwEnglish Seventh-day Adventist Church manuscripts. Manuscripts must include of address: Call toll-free 1-800-456- Bible.© The Delegates of the Word University address, telephone number, and Social Security 3991 or 301-791-7000, ext. 2436. Press and the Syndics of the Cambridge Editor William G Johnsson Consulting Editors: Robed S. Folkenberg, number, where available. Notification of reiec- The Adventist Review (ISSN 0161-1119) University Press 1961,1970. Reprinted by per- Associate Editor Roy Adams Matthew Bed Ow, B. F. Gilbert, Robert J. bon may be expected only if amompanied by a is published 40 times a year, each MrsSise. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Associate Editor Myron K. Widmer 10cogerhurs. A C. McClure, Kenneth J. Weeder, stamped, self-addressed envelope. Address all Thursday except the first Thursday of Bible, New International Version. Copyright editorial correspondence to 12501 Old each month. Copyright ig 1995 Review 1973. 1978, 1984, International Bible Society. News Editor 7 as Medley Leo Penzdin, CaMn B. Rock, G. Ralph Themson Assistant Editor Stephen Chavez Special Contributors: Bryan Ball, M. E. Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20934-6600. and Herald° Publishing Association, 55 Rods credited to NKIV are from the The New Editorial office fax number: (301)680-6638. Assistant Editor Kit Watts Cherian, P. D. Chun, Israel Leito, Edwin West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, King James Version. Copyright 0 1979, 1980, Maryland 21740. Second-class postage 1982, Thomas Nelson, Inc, Publishers. Used Editorial Assistant Ella Rydzewski Ludescher, J. J. Nortey, Jan Paulsen, L. D. Raelly, Ted N. C. Wilson, Joao Wolff Subscription prices: US$38.97 for 40 paid at Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. Administrative Secretary Chitra Barnabas African-Indian Ocean Editions Editor, issues. US$50.97 for 52 issues. Add $10.20 Postmaster: send address changes to Bible texts credited to RSV are from the Revised Editorial Secretaries Mary Munson, Japheth Agboka postage for addresses outside North America. Adventist Review, 55 West Oak Ridge Standard Version of the Bible, copyright Jean Seyueira Inter-American Edition Editor, Adalgiza To place your order, send your name, Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740. 1946, 1952, 1971, by the Division of Christian Art Director Bill Kirstein Archbold address, and payment to your local Adventist Education of the National Council of the Designer Steve Trapero South American Editions Editor, R. S. Book Center or AoVertist Review Subscription Internet: A11111AREAT@att ma i I . com ; Churches of Christ in the USA Used by per- Design Assistant Ged W. Busch Lessa, Portuguese, editor, Werner Man, Spanish Desk, Box 1119, Hagerstown, MD 21741. CompuServe nehyork: 74617,15: Prodigy net- mission. Ad Sales Melynie Tooley Single copy, US$2.50. Prices subject to change work: VRUN29B Subscriber Services Steve Hanson without notice. PRINTED IN THE USA Vol. 172, No.21

ADVENTIST REVIEW. MAY 25,1995 (547) 3 EDITORIAL Of Power, Influence, and Conformity

en Singapore justice officials Threatening to cane or inflict physical allow significant decisions to be made Wecently caned a young American pain for error or disobedience would be at the lowest level possible. man for vandalizing with spray paint, counterproductive and antithetical to O. Rethinks and updates its standards some people were outraged over such the freedom of choice inherent within (not Christian principles) when they "barbaric" punishment. But what the gospel. And we do not wish for the become dinosaurs in a new age. should the government have done? Let power to fine members or institutions III. Admits that church leaders on any him go without penalty? Certainly not! for failing to follow church policies or level can make mistakes—and is not The young man knew that vandalism to uphold all 27 fundamental beliefs. willing to just transfer those who make was wrong and that a penalty might But the church can use redemptive grave mistakes to another church entity. await him. And to expect Uncle Sam to discipline to urge conformity to the ► Communicates openly and regu- barge in and demand his freedom with- basics of the Adventist Church. larly with its members about current out the usual punishment is ridiculous. Discipline is by denial—taking away a and upcoming issues—and seeks and Laws of any country are formed to member's church leadership positions, uses input from them. protect the rights and freedoms of indi- declaring one's ordination to be void, or 110. Gives full reports about tithe, viduals—often from the misbehavior of the ultimate, taking away one's mem- offering, and Ingathering funds and others. And if those caught breaking the bership. For errant, rebellious congre- what that money is spent for. laws aren't rewarded with punishment, gations or even conferences, the ► Has a commitment to deal morally the laws become meaningless and gut- constituencies may exercise their right and ethically at all times with members less—with chaos not far behind. to vote them out of the sisterhood of and employees. Laws don't focus on punishment, but churches or conferences. ► Is willing to change (even down- on conformity. They seek to define the But the threat of punishment—which size) organizational structures to limits of what is acceptable and unac- deters some crime in society—is not a become more efficient and effective. ceptable in a society. And the expected good motivator for loyalty to a church. IP. Keeps the greatest percentage of consequence of breaking them is pun- Loyalty and support of the Adventist resources flowing to the level where ishment, which comes in many forms, Church and its mission come from what ministry really occurs—the local church, depending upon the country: I might call the "power of attraction." the driving force of this denomination. ► Physical pain—from caning to the People are attracted to the church when, death penalty by its words and actions, it: ere are more. These are only a few O. Limiting one's physical free- IN. Preaches Christ and Him cruci- Rat have the power to attract mem- dom—from taking away a driver's fied, risen, and coming again—the One bers and to engender loyalty to the license to imprisonment who freely offers grace sufficient for church over the years. The threat of 1111b. Taking away one's position or any repentant sinner. punishment never nurtures loyalty. It power—from taking away one's right to O. Adopts and teaches only those may force conformity on the outside, work to the impeachment of a president beliefs that are taught by God's Word. but not inside. 11. Monetary fines—from parking IP. Offers hope and meaning to our Only the gospel and grace of Jesus tickets to paying damages for polluting lives in this cruel world. Christ has the power to attract, change, the environment 110. Has leaders who articulate a clear and hold an individual's loyalty. And if sense of mission and direction. we want that loyalty extended to our ut let's come to the question that is P. Reports regularly and frankly to church, we must continually portray the Bcentral in this editorial: How does members the progress and challenges of presence of Christ in all our words and a church, specifically our church, nur- the gospel work around the world. actions—particularly through our cor- ture adherence and loyalty to its core 110. Bases decisions on moral and ethi- porate self. I pray that we might do this beliefs, standards, and organizational cal rightness—and will never be swayed daily. policies by its members and entities? by political or fmancial expediency. Certainly the church cannot resort to Po Is race, gender, and color blind. the likes of a secular government. ► Respects members enough to MYRON WIDMER

4 (548) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 EDITORIAL Caution: Learning Curve Ahead

t recently dawned on me that technol- someone who bucked tradition, and smelly thing—joyless and burdensome. Ilogy is passing me by. I can hook up a you'll often hear about being treated like And scores of Adventists leave the stereo system (if it doesn't have more an outcast or viewed with suspicion. church every year because in many than a few components), I can get my Yet individuality and nonconformity places the church is constantly rehears- computer to do a few simple tasks (like are what Adventists are all about. ing its past rather than creatively pro- typing), but don't ask me to program a Think of it: while most of the world claiming God's truth for a new VCR. And I would no more cruise the worships on a spurious sabbath, generation. (Don't be frightened, the information superhighway than ride a Adventists stand practically alone wor- principles of the gospel—like God—are bicycle on the beltway. shiping on God's day. the same yesterday, today, and forever. Technology is increasing at such a For more than 100 years Adventists That's why it's called "everlasting.") staggering rate that it's hard to separate have resisted being conformed to the The pivotal events of Christianity took fact from fiction. And while I'm world in terms of dress, diet, and place in the past, but the hope we have in impressed with the capabilities of the lifestyle. the future grows brighter the closer we technology that inhabits our offices— get to the Second Coming. So the Bible copiers, fax machines, modems, CD- Conformed or Transformed? counsels us to sing new songs (Ps. 33:3); ROMS—I'm intimidated by any But another part of our heritage puts to reflect on God's mercies, which are machine that has more than an on/off a premium on conformity. There are new every morning (Lam. 3:23); to for- switch or more "memory" than I do. those who want every Adventist to get our past accomplishments (as well as Engineers, scientists, and inventors dress the same, eat the same (at the our failures) and wait on the Lord to do a are coming up with creative inventions same times), listen to the same kind of new thing (Isa. 43:19). that I can't even imagine. Just when I music, watch the same television pro- We can't excel in spiritual maturity think I've seen it all, USA Today carries grams (or not watch television at all), by measuring ourselves with yester- a story about another technological embrace the same worship style, and day's traditions. There has to be for- marvel destined to change the world. basically look like we've all been ward movement if we want to reach If I believed in evolution, I'd be stamped from the same cookie cutter. heaven. And even then it's progress tempted to believe that this is the way But absolute conformity means sup- measured by the Holy Spirit—not by the species is supposed to evolve into a pressing that part of God's image that our fellow pilgrims. higher life form. makes us thinkers, not mere reflectors This is God's church. And if there But I believe in Creation. I believe of others' thoughts. But where are are some who make lifestyle choices that a wise, all-powerful Creator placed today's thinkers? Where are those who that I'm uncomfortable with, it may be us on this planet to ... to what? wrestle with Scripture—as did our pio- because the answers I grew up with are neers—to discover "present truth"? no longer authoritative to a new genera- Creature Creators I know some Adventists believe that tion of Adventists. So I have to go back Ellen White wrote: "Every human all good thinking has already been to the Bible. I have to believe that being, created in the image of God, is thought, that all the important texts God's Spirit will guide all those who endowed with a power akin to that of the have already been explained, that all the sincerely desire to do His will. Creator—individuality, power to think truth has already been discovered. As the apostle Paul said: "Each one and to do" (Education, p. 17). We're Modern Adventism, they claim, has should be fully convinced in his own here to reflect God's image, and part of become corrupt. The genuine article, in mind" (Rom. 14:5, NIV). God is our that image is to be creative. their opinion, no longer exists (or they judge. The rest of us have enough to do But many Adventists are uncomfort- have assumed the responsibility of just keeping our eyes on Jesus—and able with creativity and individuality. Or, being its sole practitioners). trying to figure out how to use the as Mrs. White also said, being thinkers, What they don't realize is that microwave. not just reflectors of others' thoughts. truth—like technology—continues to Nonconformists are not usually wel- expand and evolve. Religion that come in the Adventist Church. Talk to doesn't mature becomes a stagnant, STEPHEN CHAVEZ

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 (549) 5 NEWSBREAK

Church Leaders Sound Call for Prayer

o help make prayer central in the life of every member, The leaders' call for prayer includes the beginning of a TAdventist world leaders are encouraging administrators, global prayer network—volunteers who will quickly initiate a pastors, and members to join together in prayer before, dur- prayer response for crisis situations. ing, and after the General Conference session in Utrecht, June GC president Robert S. Folkenberg asked committee mem- 29-July 7. bers to take the call to prayer seriously and not to let it degen- The formal call, voiced and voted at the GC Executive erate into mere routine. Committee's Spring Meeting April 4-5, urges prayer at every "I want to affirm what we're doing. But I need to point out level of the church, from the General Conference to local con- the risks. It's too easy for these calls to grow cold and be gregations. The first day of the GC session, June 29, will be a reduced to formalities. Prayer must be born within our own worldwide day of prayer. souls and implemented within our own private lives. On that day GC president Robert S. Folkenberg will lead a "I hope we will take it seriously. This action has the poten- call to prayer for all delegates and guests at the session, and tial of being one of the most critical things we've focused calls to prayer will be launched simultaneously in each of the on." church's 11 world divisions as the session convenes. Benjamin Maxson, General Conference church ministries A special room at Utrecht will be designated for those who codirector for stewardship ministries, voiced his and others' would like to pray during the daily business sessions. hopes that delegates to the GC session will be sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and lead the worldwide delega- By Carlos Medley, Adventist Review news editor. tion into a season of prayer whenever it's needed.

WORLD CHURCH the Adventist seminary and 40,000 Adventists live in East African countries partici- publishing house in Burundi. pated in a congress held April Thugs Threaten Euro-Asian Zaokski, and a language 12-15 in Nairobi, Kenya. Ministries. The Adventist school in Moscow. Brazil Publishing House Delegates to the meeting work in the former Soviet Manager Dies. Pastor discussed ways the church in Union has garnered the Recent Fighting in Burundi Carlos M. Borda, manager East Africa can utilize the attention of organized crimi- Raises Concern. Adventist of the Brazil Publishing talents of the growing num- nals, reports Ted N. C. leaders are voicing concern House, died April 11 after a ber of civic leaders and busi- Wilson, president of the over recent civil unrest in long bout with cancer. nesspersons who are joining Euro-Asia Division. Burundi that disrupted sev- Born in 1938, Borda the church there, says Mafia-type gangs have eral Adventist programs in worked as a pastor, academy Solomon Wolde-Endreas, approached the Adventist the small African country. treasurer and principal, col- Eastern Africa Division Health Center in Moscow, Africa-Indian Ocean lege president, and union church ministries director. demanding extortion pay- Division president Jacob J. president. The numerous recommen- ments as high as $15,000 a Nortey says the fighting During his 10 years as dations voted will be pre- month. In Azerbaijan, two damaged the Adventist manager of the publishing sented at a midyear meeting men assaulted an Adventist church building in Kemega, house in Tatui, the institu- of the Eastern Africa Development and Relief just north of Bujumbura, tion has made considerable Division. Agency official and looted and Adventist mission pro- growth in book sales. the office. grams also have been dis- The popular annual IviAKE C:HIRIST YOUR CAPTAIN Wilson says stronger rupted in the Cibotoke open house brings security measures have been region, and at the secondary 17,000 visitors to the •r implemented, and he voices school at Kivoga. publishing house to appreciation for the thou- Officials from the divi- buy Christian litera- sands of prayers being sion and the Adventist ture. offered for the protection of Development and Relief Adventist workers and prop- Agency already have made East Africa Laity erty. No payments have plans to provide humanitar- Congress Convenes. been made to these groups. ian aid to Burundi, should More than 800 Music was a major highlight at the confer- Gangs have also approached it be necessary. About Adventists from seven ence.

6 (550) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 NEWSBREAK

NORTH AMERICA Adventist Review, Liberty Adventist Media Center Win ACP Awards Property to Be Sold. After voting in February not to The Adventist Review and Liberty magazines received move, the Adventist Media awards at the Associated Church Press's annual convention in Center Board has reversed Ottawa, Ontario, April 23-26. its decision on April 3 and The Adventist Review received awards of excellence for the voted to sell the Newbury best four-color magazine cover, and best Park, California, property, magazine graphic in a spread or story. The Volunteers Dr. Arthur Bergman and reports Ray Dabrowski, respective designs, conceived by Steve his wife Lilliane sort and tabulate Adventist Review survey responses. General Conference com- Trapero, appeared in the December 15, 1994, munication director. issue (see photo) and the November 3, 1994, share their opinions. This The reason for the sudden issue. shows how loyal our readers change? An unsolicited offer The December cover photo, by Adventist are," says William G. to purchase the 17-acre Review associate editor Myron Widmer, was Johnsson, Adventist Review complex received from a taken at an archaeological dig in Amman, Jordan. editor. buyer who owns contiguous The Review also received an honorable mention in the property and plans to one-, two-, or three-color magazine cover category. FOR YOUR INTEREST expand current operations. Liberty magazine received second place for the Best in The offered sale price was Class category for special-interest magazines and an honor- SDAs On-line Expands. The above the current market able mention in the Humor: Graphic category. Eighty-three Adventist forum on appraisal. publications submitted nearly 1,000 entries for judging. CompuServe, called SDAs AMC president Glenn On-line, topped 2,500 mem- Aufderhar says, "We were bers and added three new sec- going to stay until something lion in 1993. Academies Survey Responses Pour In. tions, reports Ralph Blodgett, dramatic happened. This cash raised nearly $5.6 million, When the editors of the forum director. The new sec- offer, that came without a up from $3.9 million. Adventist Review included a tions are a Singles' Network, realtor's commission, appears short survey form in the Utrecht Session/GC, and to be in that category." To New Positions. Clayton March 16 issue, they had no Religious Liberty. As of presstime a new Farwell, manager of the clue to what the response The Singles' Network sec- location had not been deter- Cohutta Springs Adventist might be. tion has a message area mined. Center, a retreat and confer- However, it didn't take where public messages are ence center owned by the long before responses started posted and a library area Giving to SDA Education, Georgia-Cumberland pouring in. More than 550 where color photos of mem- Health Care Soars. Philan- Conference, was elected persons returned the survey bers can be uploaded and thropic giving to Adventist president of the Indiana forms, sent in handwritten let- viewed. The Utrecht GC ses- colleges, universities, Conference on April 30. ters, or E-mailed their replies. sion section will contain arti- academies, and hospitals in Farwell, a former presi- And responses are still pour- cles, documents, and actions North America reached an dent of the Kentucky- ing in. The response was so about and from the upcom- all-time high of $70.7 mil- Tennessee Conference, heavy that volunteers were ing 1995 General lion in 1994, says Jeff replaces David Wolkwitz, recruited to tabulate and ana- Conference session. Scoggins, communication who recently became direc- lyze the results (see photo). To order a membership coordinator for Philanthropic tor of public relations and "We're gratified that so packet, call (800) 260-7171 Service for Institutions, development for the It Is many people took the time to or (301) 680-6309. based at the North American Written television min- Division. istry. CHURCH CALENDAR Hospitals raised more than Larry Evans, former

$28 million, up dramatically Potomac Conference secre- May 27 Annual Global Baptism Day TO O

from $16 million given in PH tary, was elected president of June 3 Bible Correspondence School Emphasis Y 1993. Support for colleges the New Jersey Conference June 10 Women's Ministry Day MEDLE

and universities totaled $37 on April 9. Evans replaces June 24 Thirteenth Sabbath Offering OS ARL million, up from $28.2 mil- Robert W. Boggess. for the Euro-Asia Division C

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 (551) 7 LIFESTYLE

How to Minister to Those Who Mourn Five simple things to ease another's pain

BY COLLEEN L. REECE

hen my mother died in critiqued my 70 books and 1,000 arti- 1992, it was the end of an cles and stories. era. For 56 of my 57 years "Blessed are they that mourn: for they Wwe had been together— shall be comforted" Jesus said (Matt. first in my parents' home and later in 5:4). mine. Since I had never married, my In the traumatic, confusing weeks that loss went beyond the usual mother- followed, I discovered that God most daughter sharing. Suddenly I was with- often sent me comfort through other out my companion, friend, staunch people. Family and friends rallied and supporter, and editor who proofed and helped in countless ways. As I look

8 (552) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995

back, specific acts and attitudes stand me sent a gorgeous card bearing a posi- what every grieving person must go out; they became mileposts in my jour- tive message of the resurrection. I trea- through in order to become whole ney to a changed life. From them, I've sure it. But when it arrived I couldn't again." She paused and added, "Most gained new wisdom in how to minister handle the first few lines. The message people don't even begin to experience to those who mourn—and in a few said how often we can't understand why all these things until after the funeral or cases, how not to increase the pain by one is taken and the other left. It was a memorial service." well-meaning actions. too-poignant reminder. "A word fitly Thank God for this woman. I believe spoken is like apples of gold in pictures God truly used her. Another gift also of silver" (Prov. 25:11). helped—a squishy, plush, lavender toy Pray with your friend, not We need to use care in what we select raccoon complete with shiny black just for her or him. or write, or say. What may be appropri- eyes, a ringed tail, and an eye mask! ate and needed later can create fresh My family bought it for me. This cud- All through the waiting, funeral heartache if it comes too soon. dly animal's soft body and outstretched arrangements, etc., I felt a protective net paws wordlessly invited my tired head of prayers supporting me. I knew dozens I had lived with Mom to rest. of concerned Christians were literally praying without ceasing, as Paul admon- ishes (see 1 Thess. 5:17). Increased for 56 of my 57 years. Continuing care. comfort came when some prayed with me—in prayer services, in my home, Mom would have been 96 had she over the telephone. No matter how Losing her was losing lived a few more weeks. A few days short, those prayers brought release before her birthday that year, a dear through tears and the presence of the friend called. "Friday may be hard for Holy Spirit. almost everything. you. How do you feel about going out to lunch? We can have a private little cele- bration of your mom's birthday. I think she'd have liked that." Respect individual needs. Surprise gave way to happiness. "I Be a giver. think she would, too." We spent our Neighbors who dropped by showed time together, speaking of the tremen- remarkable sensitivity by allowing me Some of my greatest help came from dous impact for Christ Mom made on time to be alone and by limiting the a former intensive-care unit nurse, now everyone and how her editorial work length of their visits but by coming disabled, who insisted I stop by her would live on and on, as would her often. Some who lose loved ones simply home close to the hospital each day after example and her high expectations for can't talk about them for a while. visiting Mom. She gave of herself, her my writing and speaking ministry. I found some of my greatest comfort love, her knowledge of what was hap- "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, in sharing special memories that keep pening. Through her helpful explana- saith your God" (Isa. 40:1). What Mom alive in my heart. Not just inspira- tions and Christian insight, the two greater ministry can we offer than to tional things, but funny incidents. weeks between Mom's hospitalization obey this commandment? Laughter heals. Once my visitors real- and death proved to be a time cushion in ized that I needed to speak of Mom, rich which I could adjust and grow. experiences followed. One particularly bad day I cried out, "If God had to take her, why couldn't it have been during surgery, when I was Watch the words. prepared?" She quietly asked, "Would you really Sympathy cards convey a depth of have wanted that?" concern friends sometimes don't know "Yes. No. I don't know," I cried. how to express personally. Yet the "God's timing is perfect. I've seen Colleen Reece is a free- wording of the cards needs to be care- you overcome much of the disbelief, lance writer living in fully considered. shock, anger, and guilt that you couldn't Auburn, Washington. Just when I had begun to accept the do more, all in this two-week period. quietness of my home, a dear friend You still will have bad times, depres- who would never do anything to hurt sion, and so on, but you're past a lot of

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25. 1995 (553) 9 EDUCATION

REFLECTIONS of a former University President He speaks frankly about the spiritual and secular challenges facing Adventist higher education.

BY W. RICHARD LESHER

At a recent meeting of North with our faith and the school's mission Good legal counsel saves money for the America's Board of Higher Education, statement. institution and headaches for the admin- Richard Lesher, Ph.D., was invited to From this perspective I will begin istration. share candid insights from his 10 years with a few brief observations on the 3. I believe it is the right thing to del- as president of Andrews University in work of a university president. egate responsibility in an organization— Berrien Springs, Michigan, and after 1. More than in any other area, the both for the sanity of the president and working 48 years for the Adventist president must be sure to do the right the morale of fellow administrators. Church as pastor, administrator, educa- thing when recommending faculty and These colleagues must be left free tor, editor, and biblical scholar. administrators for hiring—especially enough so that even if they make mis- He highlights critical concerns in the faculty on a continuous-appointment takes they are not undercut by the presi- ongoing struggle to keep Adventist track. Every time a faculty member is dent reversing their decisions. higher education viable in North hired, the future of the institution is 4. It became apparent to me on sev- America. We are pleased to present this being decided. I believe that the presi- eral occasions that substantive change in adapted version of his remarks.— dent should interview every prospective the university organization holds great Editors. faculty member before recommending risk for a reduction in enrollment—even him or her to the board. Included in the though the change strengthens the insti- n my reflections today I bring a pot- interview should be questions and dis- tution's future. I found that doing the pourri of thoughts on Adventist cussions that will reveal both academic right thing sometimes involves balanc- higher education—on what I've competence and spiritual commitment. ing risk against improvement. I learned and on what the future may 2. An area of growing importance in 5. Faculty members and every hold. higher education is the law. Its rising employee want the president to listen While at Andrews University I dis- import comes from the increased liti- to what they have on their minds. It is covered a concept in my reading that I giousness of the population, the time-consuming, but I am convinced found helpful: "It is the responsibility of increase of laws that affect higher edu- that giving them a hearing is the right the president to do the right thing, and cation, and the regulations that follow thing to do. However, it is probably the responsibility of the rest of the their enactment. less time-consuming than solving the administrators to do things right." Doing the right thing means seeking problems that might arise out of not The first concept is leadership, and legal counsel before making decisions being willing to listen. the second is management. For me, "to that have the potential for litigation and 6. The mission statement is an impor- do the right thing" was not only to to ensure compliance with governmental tant document for an institution. We all decide the correct administrative direc- regulations. Counsel is expensive, but have them, and I suspect most suffer the tion but also to harmonize that direction legal suits and noncompliance more so. same malady—that of trying to put

10 (554) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 everything we believe into them. The Appropriations quality of education, probably produc- right thing to do in writing a mission Finances are a perennial problem. ing a drop in enrollment and further statement is to make it one sentence in Fluctuations in income are caused by exacerbation of the problem. length, followed by a statement of pur- the economy, which affects enrollment; For the church the erosion in appro- poses and goals derived from that one- the loss of enrollment for other reasons; priations would proportionately weaken sentence mission statement. If the and the level of giving to the denomina- the tie of the institution to the church, sentence is clear, there will be no ques- tion, which affects appropriations. and the complete loss of appropriations tion about what the mission is. The forecast until 2000 is for a mod- could result in independent Adventist For Andrews University a mission erate level of economic activity, which colleges and universities. So it seems to statement could very well state: me that it is in the church's inter- "The mission of Andrews est to maintain the percentage that University is to offer high-quality appropriations bear to an institu- undergraduate and graduge edu- tion's total income. cation in the context of the Seventh-day Adventist faith." Health-Care Assistance The statement of purposes and Health-care costs have been ris- goals then would expand its ing rapidly. If we add those meaning. increases to the volatility in total I'd now like to reflect upon a cost resulting from self-insurance, number of issues facing most each institution could face in any Adventist institutions of higher given year a large increase in education in North America. health-care costs beyond the bud- get. Colleges at Risk In one recent year Andrews While at Andrews University I experienced an increase of 25 per- had a number of conversations cent in health-care costs because with representatives of colleges of increases in the cost of care and that were having difficult times a larger-than-normal number of operating and were wondering if costly cases. This caused us to Andrews might be able to help search for an alternative to self- them. insurance. We found one, and Richard Lesher We searched for ways to be now Andrews is on a yearly con- helpful, but did not find practical tract and knows the cost of health solutions. There seemed to be no way to does not provide much hope for large care for the coming year before the bud- arrange a mutually beneficial rescue. increases in church resources. In fact, get is finalized, and health-care cost What should be done about colleges since church income is affected also by increases are held to a manageable level. at risk? In some quarters there is the factors other than the economy, the pos- view that we have too many Adventist sibility of dwindling resources is real. Inflationary Increase colleges in North America and that And that raises the question whether the Another financial problem that we all some of them should be closed or com- church at its various levels can continue face is the inflationary increase (even bined with schools having a stronger to provide the present amount of appro- exceeding the consumer price index) in operation. Past experience in North priations to higher education. a school's cost of operation. It ranges America on the academy level cautions The church has been regarded as from two to six points above the CPI. us that closing a school or merging two higher education's "endowment," and The church's appropriations to our insti- schools on one site results in the loss of the church's appropriations have been tutions do not increase at that rate, and students who will not transfer—thus seen as a cord that helps keep the insti- we overprice our services for our con- diminishing Adventist enrollment when tutions tied to the church. If Adventist stituents if we annually increase tuition we should be maximizing it. Church appropriations remain flat or are to match our increased costs. Why can We should take steps to save the col- reduced, thus reducing the percentage we not hold our cost increases to the leges we have, including increasing our of institutional income that comes from level of the CPI? enrollment of Adventist young people the church, it would be equivalent to a I'll make a simple analysis of just one and implementing innovations such as reduction in endowment. It would have area (by far the largest area) of the bud- interactive TV classrooms shared by the potential over time of changing the get—salaries and wages. The church generally plans to give a remuneration two or more schools. I recognize, how- relationship between the church and its z ever, that a point arrives when an insti- colleges and universities. increase annually about equal to the tution cannot be propped up any longer For institutions it would require an CPI. But that increase brings about an x and must be closed. increase in tuition or a decrease in the increase in Social Security taxes; retire-

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25,1995 (555) 11 ment fund contributions; funds budgeted Even before the increase, student for every occasion when students are for health care, educational, and spouse repayment of educational loans was a brought together for religious reasons. travel allowances; and in other items problem. So in the future, even more 2. There is a trend today toward tied to North America's monthly wage than at the present, students will be involving students in volunteer service. factor. All these costs are beyond the deterred from working for the church This provides an opportunity to teach basic remuneration increase. because of their large loan payments. students the Christian motivation for Beyond these is also the increase in Who will be available for employment? such service, and allows them to live scale for employees who have not Only the children from high-income their faith. reached the maximum in their category. families who haven't needed to borrow 3. Hire faculty who are committed Thus the increased cost for wages and to get an education. Christians, willing and eager to combine salaries, including benefits, considerably It seems to me that we must provide a religion with their disciplines. exceeds the increase in the wage factor. plan to assist young church and educa- 4. Develop a specific program target- If we were to make annual reductions tional workers in paying off the educa- ing non-Adventist students in an unob- in our budgets to hold our increases to tional debts they owe. Without the trusive way. the level of the CPI, then over a period loans, many of these students would 5. Arrange for spiritual visits to stu- of 17 to 50 years the budget would be never have come to an Adventist college dents by chaplains, pastors, elders, and reduced to nothing. If reductions are not or university. And if they hadn't come, others. the answer (and there should be reduc- we then would have to face the prob- 6. Plan an active, ongoing anti-alco- tions where there can be true savings lems that come with lower enrollment. hol, anti-tobacco, and anti-drug program: while maintaining quality), then income and provide qualified, confidential sub- must increase. Religion on Campus stance-abuse counseling for students And if appropriations cannot be Adventist higher education exists pri- who choose to seek such help. increased sufficiently to fill the gap and marily for religious reasons. Not that the I have referred to religion on campus, tuition cannot be increased enough to spiritual can replace the academic, but it but of course, being religious can miss cover it, where shall we turn? It seems suffuses throughout it. Without the spir- the whole point of Christianity. What to me the answer to the dilemma is to itual factor we have no reason to oper- we must seek in religion is a campus have an increase in enrollment at least ate educational institutions. Therefore, that fosters a genuine faith in Jesus equal to the percentage points by which we must jealously guard and energeti- Christ, an ardent hope of His second actual cost increases exceed the CPI. cally foster the religious instruction we advent, and an intelligent belief in the But that leaves us all vulnerable because offer, the religious services we conduct, Scriptures. If we do everything else enrollment is variable and sometimes the religious standards we uphold, and right and fail in this, our failure is com- volatile, and all it takes to put the school the religious principles that we believe plete, because this is why we exist. income under budget is a small drop in must permeate all secular disciplines. student credit hours. Thus recruitment is There are always forces operating to y tenure as a president is ended, a very lively topic among presidents. prevent this guarding and fostering of Mbut if I were starting again, I the religious. For example: would put more time and effort into the Financial Aid ► The day-to-day burdens of admin- spiritual life of the campus and find the Another financial problem is the istration when one too often has to deal budget to support it in a stronger way, changing nature of student aid from the with the urgent to the exclusion of the because when school closes for the last federal government. We can expect important. time, all that will really matter to stu- reductions in grants and increases in ► The opposition of students to com- dents and alumni is, Do they have faith loans. plying with religious service attendance in Jesus to stand for them in the judg- For the student who graduates and requirements. ment? gets a well-paying job, this should not be ► The attitude of some faculty mem- a problem. But in an Adventist college bers that they are hired to teach their or university many students look toward discipline and not religion. working for the church or its institutions. ► The difficulty of providing inter- If they seek work as pastors or teachers, esting messages to attract students. how will they pay off large loans on the ► The captivating power of the secu- moderate salaries they will receive? The lar—music, TV, sports, cars, alcohol, W. Richard Lesher, Ph.D, retired in problem already exists, but it looks as clothes, and jewelry—which tends to 1994 after 10 years as president of though it will be worse in the future. make religion seem uninteresting, tame, Andrews University and 48 years of Presently the new amounts of loans and apart from real life. service for the Seventh-day Adventist available to a student runs from $17,125 Church as administrator, educator, edi- to $35,125 for four years of college. What Shall We Do? tor, and biblical scholar. He and his Graduate school could boost the avail- 1. We need to give greater attention to wife, Veda, continue to live in Berrien able loans up to $53,625. providing interesting, inspiring messages Springs, Michigan. 12 (556) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25.1995 FAITH ALIVE! Do the Right Thing

n the February 16, 1995, issue of have said: 'I will no longer pay my f I had to choose between the alterna- I the Adventist Review, a reader tithe, for I have no confidence in the Itives you present, I would choose the posed a question about tithing. You way that things are managed at the former. stated that a balanced, Christ-cen- heart of the work.' But will you rob "Nightclub music" and the berating of tered teaching of stewardship God because you think the manage- the church by any member—especially includes proper identification of the ment of the work is not right? Make a pastor—are unfortunate. However, storehouse. What is "the storehouse"? your complaint, plainly and openly, in even more unfortunate would be your Is it the Adventist Church, or is it any the right spirit, to the proper ones. neighbor's turning to false doctrine in person/group doing the Lord's will? Send in your petitions for things to be search of spiritual fellowship or growing adjusted and set in order; but do not cold and callous because you did not rAur denomination interprets the withdraw from the work of God, and follow through on the advantages that klstorehouse (Mal. 3:10) to mean the prove unfaithful, because others are present themselves. organized church. More specifically, our not doing right" (Testimonies, vol. 9, You don't want the judgment to system of financial distribution makes pp. 247-249). reveal that you failed to do your best in this unit the local conference or mission To the second group I would say that this matter. Give her the studies, take treasury. It is from here that the treasur- the church organization could not and her to church, and, if necessary, explain ers elected by the members in session would not exist if each member devel- the negative conditions that exist. Have (conferences), or appointed by the next oped a personal view of the use of the her understand that you do not agree higher organizational level (missions), tithe, even if it were somehow substanti- with these particular activities, but that apply policies established by the world ated by special scriptural references or the good about the pastor and the people church body. This process benefits all by exceptions made in our pioneer expe- far outweigh the bad. Tell her that it is levels of organization—the local church, rience. not the organization or leadership that the local conference, the union, the divi- And to both I would say, the greater we must watch, but the Good Shepherd sion, and the General Conference. Each risk is not following our tithe plan and Himself, Jesus Christ. conference organization is audited annu- being occasionally disappointed; it is But again, before you take her to ally by professionals who are not legally allowing exceptions of any kind to church, be as certain as you can of her beholden to the unit under analysis. The encourage schism, to weaken organiza- love for Jesus. That alone will hold her local church is audited by the local con- tion, and to breed distrust. (or any of us, for that matter) given the ference or mission treasurer. disappointments and controversies that There are some members who rr he climate is perfect for giving impinge upon our fellowships. because of human error—real or imag- my neighbor Bible studies, with But there's one more suggestion. ined—refuse to honor the regular pro- the hope of inviting her to church. Yours is a large city with a number of cess. Others fail to do so because they However, I have two problems. First, Adventist churches. If the problems of find in Scripture and/or the experience our minister convinced the church to the one to which you belong are pro- of Ellen White certain exceptions to the change the style of music, and I am hibitive, for your neighbor's sake—and standard policies of tithe usage. highly embarrassed by the swaying maybe even for yours—why not take I would remind the first group that and bouncing of the choir members in her to another one? Ellen White was speaking very directly time with the nightclub sound of to such an attitude when she wrote: music. "Let none feel at liberty to retain their Second, the minister paints a very tithe, to use according to their own judg- dark picture of Adventists, berating ment. They are not to use it for them- faithful members who uphold the selves in an emergency, nor to apply it standards and calling them Pharisees. Calvin B. Rock is a general vice presi- as they see fit, even in what they may Do I ask her to church and apologize dent of the General Conference. He regard as the Lord's work. for the situation, or just let her decide holds doctoral degrees in ministry and "Some have been dissatisfied and if she wants to return? religious ethics.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 (557) 13 HERITAGE enough, and I am writing this to you simply for your information personally and not for publication."6 If an article had been planned, this effectively stopped it! One does not have to accept the doc- tor's view of events to realize that the advice with which he ended his letter to Kellogg's Ballenger is still sound today. Consider what he wrote: "Before closing this letter I must say a word more. .. . If I were you, I would not spend a minute in the kind of work Counsel to you are doing. A man of your talents ought to be engaged in evangelistic work. Mere theological doctrines have very little influence upon character. It is Church Critics the saving principles of the gospel and fundamental ideas of integrity and equity that build character, and not theo- logical tactics. Character is the only thing that counts, and human service is BY JAMES R. NIX the only thing worthwhile. . . . Really, the only way to serve God is to serve our fellows, isn't it?"' "Mrs. White was unquestionably an uring the past few decades embroiled him in a theological contro- inspired woman. In spite of this fact, she several events in our denom- versy with church leaders and Ellen G. was human and made many mistakes ination have concerned many White. Eventually Kellogg was disfel- and probably suffered more from those Dmembers—issues concerning lowshipped, and with him went the mistakes than any person ever did. theology and administration. Battle Creek Sanitarium.' Nevertheless, I knew the woman was Since the Adventist Church holds a About this same time Albion F. sincere and honest and that the influence central place in the lives of many of us, Ballenger attacked the doctrine of the of her life was immensely helpful to a it's natural to want to know all about sanctuary. This eventually led to his vast multitude of people, and I have not every new situation. But it's all too easy separation from the church. From then the slightest desire in any way to weaken to move beyond curiosity to bitter criti- until his death in 1921, Ballenger pub- in the smallest degree the good influence cism. lished a paper attacking Adventists. of her life and work, and consequently I What's been happening is not unique. Afterward his brother, Edward S. cannot lend any influence to help your Differences have arisen in the church Ballenger—who also had broken with work because I do not approve of it as before, and doubtless more will come. the church over doctrinal issues—con- being worthwhile when there is so much tinued the paper's publication.5 that needs to be done to help men and A letter written by Dr. John Harvey Apparently E. S. Ballenger wrote to women who are sitting in darkness and .Kellogg on May 23, 1941, to Kellogg early in 1941, asking for infor- longing for light.... Edward S. Ballenger offers some sound mation about the doctor's problems with "I do hope that you will give prayer- advice to those who are tempted to the church 35 years earlier. The 89-year- ful thought and consideration to devot- become critical. old doctor responded at length. As the ing your life and talents to work that The setting for the letter actually account unfolded, Ballenger must have will be more directly and immediately began near the turn of the century when relished the thought of the article he helpful to make men and women . . . Dr. Kellogg directed the church's would write for his paper. healthier and happier.... Certainly such world-famous Battle Creek Sanitarium use of your time and talents will be in Michigan.' At that time the denomi- nowing that Ballenger spent much vastly more fruitful than what you are nation's sanitarium had more employees Kof his energy attacking the church, doing in a critical way by showing up than the ministerial arm of the church? Kellogg was concerned about how the faults and weak points. Make your work On February 18, 1902, the Battle information he was sharing would be creative and uplifting, and it will give Creek Sanitarium burned to the ground.' used. So he added, "I have never you something beautiful and satisfying The following year Kellogg published a thought it any part of my duty to show to look back upon when your lifework is book containing statements that up people's faults, for we are all faulty done. 14 (558) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 "Excuse me for this little preach- we never lend our support to any- ment, but I felt it my duty to thing that is even slightly question- express to you my real state of able. We must always be willing to mind. . . . You know the apostle stand for principle in every decision said, 'Whatsoever things are that is made, whatever the cost. lovely, think on these things,' and II When bad situations do hap- there are plenty of them to occupy pen, we should find some construc- all our time.... tive way to use our God-given "Your Friend and Brother, J. H. talents. As Kellogg pointed out, it is Kellogg." 8 a poor use of one's talents to criti- cize when so much needs to be done he doctor's advice to Ballenger in the world. Building something Tis especially interesting positive takes far more work than because it was given after decades destroying. If asked to help solve a of differences with church leaders. problem, we should be willing to do Nowhere does he imply that prob- so—but always in positive ways. lems should not be straightened • No matter what happens, we out. Obviously, when mistakes are should keep a positive outlook. made, they must be corrected. This Some years ago Ellen White's old- may involve personnel changes or est granddaughter, Ella Robinson, implementation of new policies to recalled some advice from her prevent a recurrence of the situa- grandmother: "If you can think of a tion. person who has no friends, no Although interested, concerned, money, and is suffering from an and possibly even justifiably upset incurable disease, yet has the plan of when problems occur, we should salvation and hope of a glorious follow Kellogg's advice to "do future, aren't they enough to keep something worthwhile." We should John Harvey Kellogg that person singing from morning to be especially careful to avoid criti- night?"9 Problems we all have; it's cizing either those who made the mis- gave her and encouraged her to make a Jesus who makes the difference in how takes or those who are attempting to new start. His example might also cause we react to them. rectify them. us to rethink whether it is necessary for us to pass along every bit of bad news ext time you feel like criticizing s concerned members of the about the church we happen to hear. Nwhen something happens, remem- 1.church,A there are a number of ■ Keep in mind that most of us have ber Kellogg's prescription to Ballenger: things we can do when bad situations not been called upon to straighten out "Whatsoever things are lovely . . . , happen: the entire denomination. We've all met think on these things." i° • Pray for those who made the mis- people who seem to think they have all take as well as for those who have been the answers. Without even being asked, ' SDA Encyclopedia (1976), p. 722. assigned to straighten it out. I occasion- they can tell you how everything from A. V. Olson, Thirteen Crisis Years (1981), p. 184. ally visit a former teacher of mine. the health system to the local school to ' SDA Encyclopedia (1976), p. 138. 4 Ibid., p. 723. Sometimes in our conversations the sub- the performance of the church organist Ibid., p. 121. ject of some current situation in the should be improved. J. H. Kellogg to Edward S. Ballenger, May 23, 1941. ' Ibid., p. 12. church comes up. Invariably, however, Each of us has a function to perform Ibid., pp. 14, 15. before we close our visit, my friend sug- in the cause of God. But rather than Story told to James Nix by Ella M. White-Robinson. ' J. H. Kellogg to Edward S. Ballenger, May 23, gests that we have a word of prayer. being concerned about what everyone 1941, p. 15. During that prayer he prays for each else is doing, we should take very seri- individual we have talked about—by ously our own assignment. We should name. It makes a profound difference in see to it that our actions never give my attitude as I leave that visit. grounds for anyone else to criticize our IN If we feel we must share with oth- stewardship of whatever position we James R. Nix is an ers what we know about a particular sit- may hold. We should always stand for associate director of the uation, we should do so in a non- the right at whatever level of responsi- Ellen G. White Estate, condemnatory manner. Christ, when bility in the church we are assigned. located at the General confronted with the woman caught in Whether at the local church level or at Conference of Seventh- adultery, did not mention her sins or some conference level, it is our God- day Adventists, in Silver condemn her for them. Instead, He for- given responsibility to make certain that Spring, Maryland.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25,1995 (559) 15 THEOLOGY unity. His followers, so different apart from Him, forsake their diversity in order to become one. Christ prays for His disciples and all believers—the uni- versal church—"that they all may be one, [united] in Us" (verse 21, NKJV), that is, in the Father and in Christ. It is a unity similar to that which exists between the Father, the Son, and (as we find clearly in other texts) the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:3). Uni In the relationships of the Trinity— the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—we find no autonomous attitudes or individual agendas, nor is any One in The nonnegotiable sign of the church search of individual interests. Each member of the Trinity conducts Himself in a way so integrated with the Others that a separation among Them is impos- sible. The same can be said of the unity of Their actions toward human beings. BY MARIO VELOSO Unity by integration has profound missionary consequences. Christ prayed "that they also may be one," "that the world may believe" (John 17:21). When he unity of the church depends In the New Testament four passages diversities are magnified, unity is lost. upon four basic factors. That's clearly explain the church's unity in its And without unity the church ceases to what this article is about. various aspects. be the church. It acts in a way that is T God, through Paul, defines contrary to its mission to grow and the church as the body of Christ (Eph. Unity Through Integration increase, both in the numbers of its 1:22, 23), "joined and knit together by First, the church's unity comes by inte- members and in the quality of their every joint with which it is supplied" gration through the person of Christ Christian experience. (Eph. 4:16, RSV). The church is one in (John 17:20- both quantity and quality. 26). Christ is Unity Through Transformation As truly one, the church can be nei- the great inte- Second, unity comes by transforma- ther multiplied nor divided. Multiplicity grating or uni- tion (Rom. 12:1-21). This is not a for- would destroy its identity, because, fying element mal transformation that brings no being many, it would be nothing in par- of the church. renewal of the understanding. On the ticular. Dividing it into independent sec- Without contrary, it renews and revitalizes our tions would eliminate its global, Christ, there is perceptions. corporate unity. With each section act- no unity. The many members with their diverse ing independently, the whole would The unity gifts and multiplicity of functions that cease to act in unity, and therefore the that Christ make up the body, the church, can all be whole would cease to exist. For exam- produces is integrated by radical transformation. The ple, congregationalist churches, with not unity in ego-centered each local church acting without a cor- doctrinal plu- spirit must be porate connection to the rest of its kind, ralism or reserving the right to maintain changed into a do not have a universal organization that individual lines that separate. True person dedi- integrates them into one body. Christian unity can only be unity cated entirely The entire Bible, especially the New through integration. In true Christian to God, a liv- Testament, teaches a nonnegotiable unity, diversity overcomes its natural ing sacrifice unity. Without unity the church ceases centrifugal force in order to be concen- (verses 1, 2). to be the church. And the remnant trated in unity; when the various differ- Personal values

church too would lose its identity and ent viewpoints are integrated into one, will be held in z fail to achieve the specific mission that diversity disappears and unity reigns. a healthy bal- 4 God Himself conferred upon it for the In His high priestly intercessory ance—"Do not time of the end. prayer, Christ refers to this kind of think of your- 16 (560) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 self more highly than you ought" (verse to the diversity of gifts, ministries, and universal, the lifestyle is universal, the 3, NW). The transformation extends to operations, and the multiplicity of mem- missionary action is universal, and so administering the gifts with diligence, to bers (verses 4-6, 14). He insists that the forth. spiritual fervor in serving the Lord body is one, For this reason the Seventh-day (verse 11), cultivating personal relations and although Adventist Church does not accept con- without conceit, not considering oneself we are mem- gregationalist government, nor does it wise in one's own eyes, and being at bers each one in admit to dividing itself into national or peace with everyone (verses 16, 17). particular, as a territorial churches. There is no such Transforming the understanding, pos- church we "are thing as an Adventist Church of Africa sessing the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16), the body of or of Europe. What does exist is the and experiencing reconciliation (Rom. Christ" (verses Adventist Church in Africa or in 5:1-11; Col. 1:21-23) are parallel con- 20, 27). There Europe, or in whatever part of the cepts in Paul's writings. They produce is only "one world, because the church is universal. in the true Christian the peace of authen- body" (verse Neither do we allow one of the doc- tic justification by faith, and a mission- 12). trines to be abandoned in one sector of ary life dedicated without reservations The unity of the world church or any part of the to the ministry of reconciliation the church is spiritual; it results from the church to go its own way outside the (2 Cor. 5:18, 19). The unity of the action of the Holy Spirit. We do not voted policies and practices of the church is the corporate experience of obtain it through goodwill, accord, a church. new creatures, of born-again Christians. vote, convenience, or compromise. The Destroying unity and altering doc- The new birth, though a very personal Holy Spirit produces unity as a true trines are evils that not only work experience, must also be the corporate integration of the members in order to against the church, marring its identity, experience of the church. That which constitute the church. but also attack the work of the Holy each member lives must become visible No individual, no group of individu- Spirit, who works to establish doctrinal also in the actions of the organized com- als (whether they call themselves inde- unity and produce corporate unity in the munity of the church and in the admin- pendent or supporting ministries), no church. istrative life of its organizational administrative sector of the church, structures. Attitudes and decisions that has the right to appoint itself in the Unity Through Growing Up in Christ reveal pride, independence, separatism, church to exercise functions and Fourth, unity comes from growing up a tendency toward conflict, or a search responsibilities or establish orders and in Christ (verses 4:1-16). In this passage for a way of life different from the rest exercise authority as it might wish, Paul defines unity of the Spirit, spec- of the body act in contradiction to the independent of the body. God deter- ifies the objective of the responsibilities mode of being a new creature and mines these things through the church. and ecclesiastical functions, and estab- destroy unity. "And God hath set some in the church, lishes growth in Christ as an important At times we make the mistake of first apostles, secondarily prophets, factor for the unity of the church. thinking that conversion and spiritual thirdly teachers, after that miracles, Paul reminds us that the unity of the transformation have to do only with the then gifts of healings, helps, govern- church is "the life of persons as individuals (specifi- ments, diversities of tongues" (verse unity of the cally their personal Christian practices), 28). In Paul's list in Ephesians he Spirit," which and that the church's institutions or includes evangelists and pastors (Eph. the church must organizations are not to be converted or 4:11). Only the church as a corporate keep through to grow spiritually. This concept reflects power or body united by the Holy the bond of Western individualism, which does not Spirit and following the revelation of peace (verse 3). recognize and even ignores corporate God can exercise these powers and Paul then sets values and the experiences of commu- determine how such functions are to be forth the seven nity. Although a collective personality administered. elements com- may not exist, there is such a thing as a The corporate power of the Seventh- prising unity community responsibility and a corpo- day Adventist Church is exercised by established by rate integration that determines the the assembly of the General Conference, the Spirit: one church's actions and mode of being. during which time the church acts as a body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, united body under the action of the Holy one faith, one baptism, and one God Unity by the Spirit Spirit. Its decisions must embrace all the (verses 4, 5). This is a picture of com- Third, unity comes by the Spirit (1 Cor. levels of the church organization in all plete unity—ecclesiastical, moral, spiri- 12:1-31). How are the multiple and the the world, so that the church maintains tual, doctrinal, missiological, and diverse able to act in unity? Paul unity in its universal practices. The doc- theological. responds to this question in trines are universal, the ministry is uni- The functions and orders—apos- 1 Corinthians 12, specifically in relation versal, the organizational structure is tles, prophets, evangelists, pastor-

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25,1995 (561) 17 teachers—are varied, but the objec- for the corporate growth of the church. The Better Way tive is the same: building up the body All growth in spiritual maturity and all Instead of suspicion and division, of Christ (verses 11, 12). These func- increase of membership are produced how much better to dedicate our ener- tions and orders—or gifts—are not in Christ, the head of the church, gies to mission! United with the Holy given to individuals to exalt them- which is His body. He is the object and Spirit in this work, we will understand selves or their positions in the the fountain of its growth. Christ has doctrine better, we will be integrated church. The gifts are granted to the all the power necessary for granting better into the body of Christ, and we church in order to build unity in the spiritual vitality, brotherly love, mis- will be motivated by the love of God faith and in the knowledge of the Son sionary endeavor, and the needed lead- more than by our personal egos. In of God in such a manner that the ership for the church's corporate short, we may live as individual church does not have vacillating doc- growth in unity. Christians and as members of the trines, nor is it deceived by error, Through the leaders God raises up, united body of Christ—His church. since this would impede its growth the church is edified and unity main- (verses 13, 14). tained. Paul says that "the whole God has authorized no member, no body, joined and knit together by group of members, to take the gifts He every joint with which it is supplied, bestows for the unity and growth of when each part is working properly, the church and use them as the means makes bodily growth and upbuilds of fragmenting the church through itself in love" (verse 16, RSV). The doctrinal conflict or destroying its leaders must do all in their power to Mario Veloso is an organizational unity. maintain the unity of the body. To associate secretary of To the contrary, leaders and mem- work contrary to unity would reflect a the General Con- bers, compelled by love and following very strange concept of ecclesiastical ference of Seventh-day the truth revealed by God, are to work leadership that is completely alien to Adventists. both for their own personal growth and the revelation of God.

On escape from a world of darkness

by Andy Demsky As Anita lay trapped in the darkness of the shed, her mind raced over the events of the past several years. What had happened? Where did she go wrong? Terrance Malle, the charismatic cult leader, had lured her into his MIRK world, and now her life was at stake. The love, acceptance, and security of the Omega family was a sham. Its polished veneer pulled Anita and many others into a world of darkness. But RE fluGli from the depths of despair, Anita rose to find what her soul had been missing: 11 story of mkt and their tedudive appeal a God who says Yes to life. Dark Refuge, by Andy Demsky, provides a graphic and compelling warn- ing to young and old alike about the seductive and deadly dangers of cults and their charismatic leaders. The threat is real. This book is timely and needed. Read it for yourself, and pass it on. US$11.95/Cdr417.35. Paper. HIIDy DEflISIN Available at your local Adventist Book Center, or call toll free 1-800-765-6955. © 1995 Pacific Press Publishing Association 835/59591

18 (562) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25,1995 WORLDREPORT

Thousands braved the elements to listen to gospel presentations. Their only complaint? That some meetings were cut short because of the weather. ■ PAPUA NEW GUINEA Deluge! A little moisture couldn't dampen the Holy Spirit's influence.

We've been at Mount Sinai these past splashed all around. members are also involved in an exten- MI two weeks. We've experienced the The only time the meeting had to be sive follow-up ministry. rain, the thunder, the lightning, the dark- rescheduled was the evening a violent Area pastors schedule baptisms for ness—and been spiritually blessed." So thunderstorm passed through the area. the twelfth Sabbath of every quarter. said a corre- With one lightning bolt the entire city Then the new members participate in spondent from was smothered in darkness, the audience the Communion service at the close of the national was dismissed, and the meeting was their first full week as an Adventist. radio station in scheduled for another evening. Most pastors prepare for baptism from Papua New In addition to the emphasis on Bible 200 to 300 people at a time, making Guinea as he study, each meeting featured a short pre- Papua New Guinea one of the fastest- described the sentation on health or family life. And growing areas of the Adventist Church evangelistic each evening more than 100 people in the South Pacific. meetings came forward in response to the appeals When they speak of "showers of bless- recently con- for commitment. On the last weekend of ings," it could mean the falling of rain or cluded in Port the meetings more than 1,000 people the blessing of the Holy Spirit. But in Moresby. responded to the invitation to follow Port Moresby in spring 1995 it meant The meetings Jesus by keeping His Sabbath. both! During a health lecture pre- sented during a rain were held in the Part of the reason for the series' suc- shower Jim Zachary uses a largest outdoor cess is the groundwork laid by the prop (and an umbrella) to athletic stadium Adventists who live in the vicinity of show how cholesterol clogs By Jim Zachary, associate secretary of veins and arteries. in the country. Port Moresby. About 11,000 members the General Conference Ministerial Sponsored worship in 42 congregations. These Association. jointly by the General Conference Ministerial Association and the Quiet Hour, the attendance the first night was about 4,000. After the speaker, Jim Zachary, was interviewed on a local radio talk show, the attendance jumped to about 6,000 the second night. Then came the rain. It rained every night for the next 10 nights. But in spite of the weather, an average of 5,000 people sat on the ground and filled the bleachers, listening carefully to the Large baptisms like this happen at least four times a year thanks to the preparation and follow-up that messages from the Bible as the rain coincides with major evangelistic campaigns in Papua New Guinea.

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25. 1995 (563)19 WORLDREPORT

■ RUSSIA for weeks with the regional militia God Guides in the Development of a office on this issue.) Nine of our workers were taken to jail and put in a cell about 9 by 12 feet. The New Division Office ceiling sagged, blood stained the floor, and the smell of urine permeated the 1992 the Euro-Asia Division has Ukraine, Moldova, Kazakhstan, and place. Locked in the cell, they prayed. Sasearchedince for a permanent division Uzbekistan. By lunchtime all the workers had office building in Moscow. But the lack Workers inhabited cramped living con- been released, but we had to pay a sub- of a working real estate system has made ditions in a nearby school building leased stantial sum of money. it extremely difficult to locate suitable for that purpose. Temporary kitchen facil- The bureaucracy of the previous properties. Privatization in Russia is still ities were provided, and three Ukrainian political system still lingers on. Prior to in its infancy, and most properties are wives provided all the meals. construction, permits were required sold through personal contacts. Every day brought new challenges on In October 1994, through the contact the construction site. Building supplies of a local church member, a three-story, were difficult to obtain, and antiquated partially completed kindergarten build- building equipment regularly broke ing was located in Golyanovo, on the down. One shipment of concrete was northeastern edge of Moscow, near paid for and delivered. However, after Ring Road, which encircles the city and only part of the cement was unloaded, gives access to major airports. Located the driver got in his truck and left, pre- in a residential neighborhood, the build- sumably to sell the rest of the load for ing was in a state of disrepair. Vandals his own profit. had smashed most windows and set Recently when the construction work- Before renovation, the building purchased for a division headquarters had been neglected and fires in various rooms. ers arrived for work, there were 11 mili- vandalized. After much prayer and negotiation, tia (police) there to meet them, contracts were signed to purchase the including four officers with bulletproof from more than 15 government depart- building. It was then reglazed, and the vests and automatic weapons. ments. But on March 22, 1995, the offi- heating system was repaired. It took As the workers arrived they were cial certificate of title and deed for the almost a month to remove more than 30 apprehended and told that if they tried to new division office was signed. (The truckloads of rubbish from the site. get away they would be shot. When all certificate was for the building only. We On March 1, 1995, a number of the workers were present, the militia are still waiting for authorization to Australian and American volunteers asked to see their passports and resi- lease the land!) arrived to assist in the reconstruction dency permits. (It is almost impossible Weather permitting, construction will of the building. Another 50 specialized to get residency permits in Moscow. soon begin on a fourth-floor attic that tradespeople were invited from Russia, With our attorney, we had been working will provide apartments and guest rooms for division employees. It is hoped that occupancy of the new divi- sion office can take place in the latter part of 1995. There are daily indications of God's leading in this special project. Please pray for the Lord's continued protection and guidance so that there will be a per- manent division office that can super- vise the evangelistic and pastoral activities of the vast Euro-Asia Division as we near Christ's second coming.

By Peter Koolik, director of the division Teams of workers from around the world have assisted in the renovation process of this building in office building project for the Euro-Asia suburban Moscow. Division.

20 (564) ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 BULLETINBOARD

professional organizations concerned with higher educa- a pastor and helped build churches in Oregon, Alaska, Deaths tion. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and one Idaho, Colorado, and California. He also served five daughter, Linda. years as director of wills and trusts for the Voice of Prophecy. He is survived by his wife, Ella; a son, Fred; TARR, W. Fletcher-b. Dec. 22, 1905, South WECKERLEY, Paul E.-age 68, d. Oct. 25, 1994, a daughter, Betty Jo Vercio; four sisters, Marion Africa; d. Dec. 1, 1994, Loma Linda, Calif. He served as Greeneville, Tenn. Before his retirement he served as Elmendorf, Evaline Tomcat, Shirley Gordon, and Esther a teacher in Canada, South Africa, and California, and assistant publishing director for the Central California McDiven; and six grandchildren. later became an educator in the field of communications, Conference. He is survived by his wife, Lillian; three teaching at Union, Washington Missionary, (where he sons, Brooke Sadler, Grant Sadler, and Cameron BECKNER, Evelyn-b. Nov. 5, 1910, New York; started the school's radio station now known as WGTS), Weckerley; two daughters, Paulette Chavis and Marilyn d. Feb. 18, 1995, Redlands, Calif. She and her husband, and La Sierra colleges and at Loma Linda University. He Hendricks; 12 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three Dr. Gordon Beckner, served as missionaries to Africa is survived by his wife, Vicki; one son, Donald; four sisters; and one brother. from 1935 to 1940. She was director of a nurse's training daughters, Lorrain Dawson, Elaine Dodd, Sylvia school. Shiflett, and Lori Smith; 15 grandchildren, and 26 great- WOOD, Floyd-age 72; b. Hinckley Village, Minn.; grandchildren. d. July 22, 1994, Corona, Calif. He taught counselor edu- CHAPMAN, Clara E.-b. Apr. 8, 1906, Idaho; d. cation at La Sierra University for 19 years. He previously Apr. 9, 1995, Silver Spring, Md. She served as a secre- THOMPSON, Geneva-b. May 12, 1902, served in education in southern California and in tary in the Southern California Conference for 40 years Hodgenville, Ky.; d. Sept. 19, 1994, Loma Linda, Calif. Singapore. He is survived by his wife, Katheryn; one and was a teacher's assistant at Loma Linda Elementary She was a teacher, and headed the Foreign Language daughter, Beverly Benson; one grandson, Ted Benson, School. She is survived by a son, David; two daughters, Department at Southwestern College when she retired. Jr.; three brothers, Stanley, Eugene, and Forrest; and Ruth Bailey and Nadine Sanders; nine grandchildren; She is survived by her husband, Julian Thompson, and three sisters, Marge Ferguson, Verna Tennant, and and 21 great-grandchildren. one granddaughter, Holly Anne Morrison. Phyllis Chaffee. CHRISTENSON, Mary Kroll-b. Feb. 13, 1903, VAIL, William Royce-b. Feb. 19, 1903, Michigan; BEACH, Gladys L-b. 1901; d. Apr. 7, 1995, Loma Iowa; d. Jan. 23, 1995, Riverside, Calif. She worked at d. Dec. 20, 1994, Ridgecrest, Calif. He served as a mis- Linda, Calif. She served for 30 years with her husband, the Quiet Hour for 24 years, retiring at age 85. She is sionary teacher, pastor, and administrator in Africa for W. R. Beach, in Europe and then for some 20 years at survived by a son, Jack; four grandchildren; and one 39 years. He is survived by one daughter, Martha-Jean the General Conference, where he served as the secre- great-grandchild. Martinsen; one son, Wayne; 9 grandchildren; and 13 tary. During World War II she was a broadcaster for the great-grandchildren. shortwave service of the Swiss Broadcasting DAVIS, Lloyd Stanley-b. Nov. 22, 1916, Corporation. She is survived by a son, Bert; two daugh- Washington; d. Apr. 1, 1995. He served the church as an WALTER, Edwin C.-age 82, d. July 5, 1994, ters, Jo Ray McCuen and Colette Win; five grandchil- educator in Missouri, North Dakota, Texas (college), Camarillo, Calif. He served for 42 years in denomina- dren; and seven great-grandchildren. Massachusetts, Michigan (dean of men), Ohio, and tional educational positions at La Sierra, Pacific Union, California. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, two and Columbia Union colleges, and in the Columbia BISHOP, Clare Eugene-b. Apr. 12, 1923, daughters, Elaine Brett and Carol Vander Meer; a brother Union Conference. He was a member or officer of many Michigan; d. Jan. 27, 1995, Hesperia, Calif. He served as Melvin; two grandsons; and five step-grandchildren.

"I've suffered, but I've been healed. I have despaired but have recovered hope. Before I met my angel, I knew the Twenty-third Psalm; now I know the Shepherd."

In the Presence of Angels by E. Lonnie Melashenko and Tim Crosby In Experience the remarkable presence of angels The in the lives of ordinary people in this expertly compiled Presence collection of contemporary angel stories. As you read these cherished stories, your heart will Of open to the miracle of love that angels provide Angels every day. Prepare to have your life touched Atoillephi,04 W.14,1 in inspiring and unexpected ways. .11,1 Kt1Ak.'

US$10.95/Cdn$15.90. Paper. E inflow Sleta.shenkn and Timottn E. (r0,6% Available at your ABC, or call toll free 1-800-765-6955. © 1995 Pacific Press Publishing Association 819/59591

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25 1995 (565) 21 Dynamic Living TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH! Drs. Aileen Ludington and Hans Diehl When You Need provide cutting-edge Incredible Answers information on nutri- to Prayer tion; reversing and Roger Morneau addresses people's frequently normalizing health con- expressed concerns and ditions such as high blood requests for intercessory prayer, and shares thrilling pressure, diabetes, and stories of God's intervention. heart disease; losing Paper, 128 pages. US$7.95, weight without going hun- Cdn$11.55. gry; and more. Ideal for personal use and for pastors to conduct health seminars. Paper, 208 pages. Regularly US$9.95, Cdn$14.45. SPECIAL INTRO- DUCTORY OFFER US$8.95, Cdn$13.00 (expires 8-31-95).

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t is 14 Creative Programs 11 itt 10 for ADULT SABBATH SCHOOLS Spiritual Growth

Book Four

i) nn117).1-faton Walls

Children's Stories Sabbath School LifeLine Bible Study Guide, Christ's Way to Spiritual Growth and Object Lessons Program Planner, Books 1 and 2 Philip G. Samaan explores what the Bible Here are 59 true character- Book 4 This easy-to-use format for and Ellen White reveal about how Christ building stories and object Dorothy Eaton Watts studying the key doctrines of the grew spiritually and shows how we can lessons for children. Plus tips provides 14 new Bible can be used for either small follow His example. Paper, 254 pages. on how to become a first-rate programs for adult group or personal study. By Kurt Regularly US$12.95, Cdn$18.80. storyteller. Pastors, teachers, Sabbath schools Johnson. Paper, 80 pages each. SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER US$10.95, children's ministries leaders, complete with scripts. US$3.99, Cdn$5.80 each. Cdn$15.90 (expires 8-31-95) or church members called Includes interviews, upon to give the children's mini-seminars, modern story will find this book a parables, quiz pro- valuable resource for leading grams, scripted panels, These Review and Herald books are available at your local children to Jesus. By Marvin skits, and travelogues. i2 Adventist Book Center. Call 1-800-765-6955. Hunt. Paper, 160 pages. Paper, 110 pages. Canadian prices do not include GST and may vary according to currency fluctuation. US$10.95, Cdn$15.90. US$7.95, Cdn$11.55. PEEL E C T IONS

Growing Through Grief

t is an old story, but one that's hard to hear. tion and a willingness to turn back toward life. IOnly the details are different. More than a year later I meet the family for I am at home ready to eat a holiday meal dinner. Their once-glazed eyes and anxious about 5:00 p.m. when my phone rings. "There faces are now illuminated with hope and has been a swimming pool accident. Come to vitality. PICU [pediatric intensive-care unit]. The fam- ily's name is Johnson." The Journey The child was spotted lying facedown at the "After the funeral," they tell me, "we faced bottom of the pool. The door was open only a an inner emptiness and loneliness that neither minute. She had just stepped out. But there she of us could fill for the other and that neither of was. The police were called, the firefighters "God has filled us could face. Someone suggested we try the came, and an ambulance raced to the hospital. Compassionate Friends. They help people I arrive on the fifth floor of Loma Linda who have lost children. When we didn't find a University Medical Center and identify myself our lives in a way chapter that met our needs, we started one." as one of the chaplains. A young family, with "People began coming out of the neighbor- pain and frustration in their eyes, greet me. hood where we lived, people we saw every They hover over a tiny crib while a physician we could never day, to share a grief similar to our own. We listens to and watches the monitor, whose beep took a few classes, read some books, attended is morbidly monotonous. some seminars, to learn how we could be I stand by. They look for answers and know have anticipated," more helpful. there is no explanation. They search for rea- "Dozens of people have entered our lives. sons, but realize there is no purpose. We wait, They came with grief and sorrow, and have talk, and pray, and then do it again and again. they tell me. left it in our place of meeting. I learn the Johnsons have been married "Nothing will ever take the place of little about five years. Mrs. Johnson had two sons by Jamie, but God has filled our lives in a way a previous marriage, but this is the only child we could have never anticipated." of their union. After the daughter's birth, Mrs. A great change has come over them—the Johnson had a tubal ligation. They have no glow in their faces, an opening in their hearts. affiliation with a particular church. orrow, suffering, sadness, pain, death, loss, arly the next morning I overhear the physi- Sand grief have no part in God's plan. These F cian call the family and ask them to return things are the reason for God's plan. Tragedy for the sad announcement. They come asking is not sent as a teacher. But when it comes, but knowing. The child is dead. I walk the there are lessons to be learned, lives to be Johnsons to their car. There is an embrace, a changed, and hearts to be touched. Whenever handshake, a "Call if you need me." we open ourselves to God's healing, we may In a few days they ask me to perform a ser- ih turn become God's agent, God's person, vice at a funeral chapel near their home. God's hand, God's heart, and God's love in Hundreds of mourners attend. I am reminded new and exciting ways. that grief is always proportional to the amount of life that should be left. Following the interment, I am invited to M. Jerry Davis is director of their home, where friends and family who care chaplain services at Loma come together. Everything seems the same Linda University Medical except for the empty arms of the young mother Center. and her husband. The grief will never be for- gotten, but after the grieving there is exhaus- BY M. JERRY DAVIS

ADVENTIST REVIEW, MAY 25, 1995 (567) 23 I CHRISTIAN

TURN HOME ENTERTAINING INTO A MINISTRY ertified home economist Nancy Van Pelt helps you minister to Cothers through warm hospitality by making entertaining easier than ever before. Includes menu prepara- tion, food presentation, serving methods, introductions, relating to guests, reaching out to coworkers and neighbors, quick fixes for an unprepared home, and a set of seminar work sheets for use in small groups. Paper, 208 pages. US$10.95, Cdn$15.90.

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The life of Christ through Mary's eyeS [aril 4011

AN INSPIRING THE LIFE OF CHRIST EXPERIENCE THE HOPE FOR THE GRIEVING BIBLICAL NARRATIVE THROUGH MARY'S EYES BLESSINGS OF In this comforting book for Lois Erickson, author of the best-selling This is Mary's story—an intimate INTERCESSORY PRAYER coming to terms with continu- Leah, takes you deep into the heart and glimpse into her heart and soul, Carrol Johnson Shewmake helps ing grief, Larry Yeagley mind of Hannah to experience her and the hopes and fears that lin- you begin a rewarding interces- presents healthy ways for deal- struggle for fulfillment as a wife and gered there for Jesus. Through her sory prayer ministry. Topics: ing with loss. Topics include mother, and to trust God no matter the eyes we witness a very special when and how to pray for divorce, loss of home, and the cost. Paper, 96 pages. US$7.95, relationship and see more clearly others; what we can ask God to constant grief endured by care- Cdn$11.55. the matchless love of her Son. By do; how to pray for those who takers such as nurses, Joan Krogstad Ireland. Paper, 192 have hurt you; hindrances to physicians, and the families pages. US$10.95, Cdn$15.90. and conditions for answered of sick and dying persons. prayer. Paper, 128 pages. Paper, 112 pages. US$7.95, Cdn$11.55. US$8.95, Cdn$13.00.

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