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July 14, 2026 A New Generation Steps Forward Beacon Light Trailblazers Welcome New Pathfinders Through Special Induction Ceremony
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July 14, 2026 More Than a Picture: Using Photography to Tell God’s Story Society of Adventist Communicators Convention October 15-17, 2026
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June 29, 2026 Minnesota Conference Session Bathed in Prayer and Open Conversations
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Adventist News
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A New Generation Steps Forward Beacon Light Trailblazers Welcome New Pathfinders Through Special Induction Ceremony
– July 14, 2026Braxton Percy has been with the Beacon Light Trailblazer Pathfinder Club since “Monarch” which is the name for the Adventurer’s Club. He recently just became a Trailblazer, but his family is in the process to transition to the state of Florida. Cynthia & Phillip Taylor directors of the Pathfinder and Adventures Club saw it fitting to send him off a full pledge Pathfinder. To make this special event a reality, he was inducted into the Pathfinder Club. Both of his parents were present during the small ceremony, and his father had the honor of scarfing him. This was done on Sabbath June 29, 2026. Two other Pathfinders were inducted, Stella Jamai’s and Zadam. Submitted by Ian Francis CSC Pathfinder Director
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More Than a Picture: Using Photography to Tell God’s Story Society of Adventist Communicators Convention October 15-17, 2026
– July 14, 2026A photograph can do more than capture a moment. It can preserve a testimony, inspire hope and help people see God at work. That’s the message behind “Photography as Ministry & Storytelling,” a presentation by award-winning photographer Ronald Pollard from the 2025 Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) Convention. Now available through the Adventist Learning Community, the session reminds us that photography is more than a technical skill—it’s a ministry that points people to Christ. Pollard encourages photographers to move beyond simply documenting events. Instead, they should look for the stories unfolding around them—the expressions of joy, acts of service, moments of worship and quiet displays of faith that often go unnoticed. The goal isn’t just to take better pictures. It’s to help others experience the story behind the image. These principles apply whether you’re using a professional camera or a smartphone. Every church has meaningful stories waiting to be told. A baptism, Pathfinder service project, community meal or simple conversation after worship can become a powerful testimony when photographed with purpose. In a North American Division News report covering the 2025 SAC Convention, attendee Jacob Capiña, a film and multimedia communication student at Pacific Union College, reflected on Pollard’s workshop: “It also provided me with the psychological framework to approach photography; the ability to communicate a story and capture someone’s moments so they can look back on it for generations to come.” If you’d like to improve your storytelling through photography, this free presentation is an excellent place to begin. It’s one of many communication resources available through the Adventist Learning Community from previous SAC conventions. Then, when you’re ready to learn in person, consider attending the 2026 Society of Adventist Communicators Convention, Oct. 15–17 in Orlando, Florida. You’ll gain practical skills, discover fresh ideas and connect with fellow communicators who are passionate about using their gifts to share the hope of Jesus.
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LifeSource Adventist Fellowship Shares the Gift of Cooking for Health
– July 13, 2026LifeSource Adventist Fellowship in Denver, Colorado, deepened its commitment to community wellness with its most recent Nourish Cooking Class, an event that blended the Adventist tradition of health education with spatula learning and warm hospitality. For generations, Adventists have emphasized the connection between faith, food and well‑being, and LifeSource is carrying that legacy forward in a way that feels both practical and deeply relational for its neighbors. The evening opened with a lively round of “Name That Spice,” an icebreaker that had guests laughing, sniffing mystery jars, and discovering new flavors. The game set the tone for a night built around curiosity and connection—reminding everyone that healthy living can be joyful and communal. Participants then moved into a series of cooking demonstrations, where presenters walked through simple, nutritious recipes for a main course, salad and dessert. Each dish was designed to be accessible for home cooks, and attendees received printed recipe handouts to take home. The goal wasn’t just to teach techniques, but to empower families to make healthier choices in their everyday routines. A highlight of the evening was a presentation from a registered dietitian, who explained the growing body of research linking gut health to mood, physical wellbeing, and long‑term outcomes. Her talk helped participants understand how the foods they prepare—like the ones featured in the class—can support emotional balance, immune function, and overall vitality. Heidi Carpenter, LAF associate pastor, shared that events like this reflect the heart of LifeSource’s mission. “We love doing this event,” she said. “It’s a chance to invite the community in, learn something meaningful together, and enjoy a nice dinner at the same table.” By the end of the evening, it was clear that the Nourish Cooking Class is becoming more than a workshop. It’s a gathering place where neighbors learn, eat and become part of the family—continuing the Adventist legacy of health as a gift meant to be shared. Jose Briones is a stewardship promotion and content creator for the Rocky Mountain Conference.
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Your Voice Matters: Lessons from SAC on Sharing Stories That Make an Impact Society of Adventist Communicators Convention October 15-17, 2026
– July 8, 2026Podcasts have become one of the fastest-growing ways to share ideas, tell stories and reach new audiences. But great podcasts aren’t just about good microphones or editing software—they begin with a message worth sharing. That’s one of the key lessons from “The Podcaster’s Playbook: Mastering Your Message for Maximum Impact,” presented by communicator and podcast coach Kirk Nugent during the 2025 Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) Convention. Now available through the Adventist Learning Community, the presentation offers practical guidance for anyone who wants to communicate with greater purpose, whether through podcasts, videos, sermons, social media or public speaking. Nugent encourages communicators to focus on serving their audience rather than simply creating content. A clear message, authentic voice and consistent storytelling can help build trust and create lasting connections. Those same principles apply whether you’re recording a podcast, leading a Bible study or managing your church’s social media. The Adventist Learning Community makes this session—and many others from the 2025 SAC Convention—available online, giving church communicators, pastors, educators and volunteers free access to practical training that can strengthen their ministry. The value of SAC extends beyond the presentations themselves. “Communications isn’t just another department in the church. It’s also ministry,” Nugent reminded attendees during the convention. “If we can frame all of the skills and talents that are being entrusted to God’s people…for His purpose and for His glory, we can be more inclusive of what it means to utilize those skills for ministry.” If you’re looking to grow as a communicator, this presentation is an excellent place to begin. And if you’d like to experience even more learning, collaboration and encouragement, registration is now open for the 2026 Society of Adventist Communicators Convention, Oct. 15–17 in Orlando, Florida. We hope to see many communicators from across the Mid-America Union there.
Blogs
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The Teacher’s Notes–Sin in the Church, Lesson 4 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2026 3Q, "First and Second Corinthians"
– July 18, 2026Sabbath School Lesson for July 18-24, 2026 Introduction of Lesson 4, Sin in the Church Memory Text: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20 NIV We are indeed bought with a price–the life of God’s own Son. The Spirit of God resides in us, in our bodies, making us God’s temple. Temples were revered in Paul’s day, so this reminder must have caused them to see their sin in a different light. We, too, must treat our bodies with more care and honor God with our bodies. We are all holy vessels of God, and must be ready to be used by Him any way He chooses. After Paul made the case that the Corinthian church was sadly divided, he began to outline in chapters 5 to 7 why and how they must live better and do more for the Lord. There were many ways they could improve their witness and be used by God to save others, if they would only listen to Paul’s counsel. The Corinthians, just like us today, were influenced by the sinful culture all around them. Our human brains are capable of soaking up sin like thirsty sponges. Paul reminds us of a higher standard though that must be maintained in God’s church. This week, we’ll explore: Sunday: Dissonance Between Faith and Practice Monday: Dealing With Scandals Tuesday: Protecting the Church’s Identity Wednesday: Antidote Against Sexual Immorality Thursday: Marriage and Singleness Sunday: Dissonance Between Faith and Practice There was a glaring incident of sexual immorality that Paul became aware of, probably through someone in Chloe’s household (1 Corinthians 1:11). It was widely known in Corinth that a member of the Christian church there had married his stepmother, or someone his father had been married to. Such a thing was not only warned against by God in Leviticus 18:7, 8, but even the Gentiles recognized and did not tolerate such an incestuous relationship that often was the result of exploitation within the family unit. To make it even worse, the Christians were arrogant to the point of boasting about their tolerance, which only marred their reputation and spoiled their witness in the community. See 1 Corinthians 5:1, 2. This story of the church in Corinth can be used as an example of the way not to share our faith. We must be careful not to practice “love” and “acceptance” to the extent that we overlook needed reforms in behavior that must be taken for a church and individual members to grow and prosper in God’s love. Verses for reflection and discussion: 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 Why would the Christians in Corinth overlook such a scandal? What message was Paul trying to convey to the Corinthians about how our faith must influence our practice of Christianity? Leviticus 18:7, 8 Why do you think Leviticus calls out such immoral behavior? Monday: Dealing With Scandals Some of Paul’s words in chapter five may sound harsh to modern readers. But a closer study of their meaning reveals the redemptive purpose for the actions a church should take when a member fails to live up to the standards of God. When scandals threaten the reputation of God’s people, church discipline must be taken. Paul described how the individual who posed a substantial threat must “be removed from among” them (1 Corinthians 5:2). Verse 5 goes on to talk about how they should “deliver this man to Satan”. What Paul no doubt meant was that they should let him reap the consequences of his unlawful behavior. It seems logical that they would encourage each other not to associate with the erring individual, in order that he not influence others in the church to follow his unholy example. Paul is clear in verse 5 that the purpose of disciplinary action by the church includes the redemption or saving of the individual being disciplined. Perhaps such action would cause the individual to see the error of their ways and come back to God. Verses for reflection and discussion: 1 Corinthians 5:1-5 What harm does immorality in the church pose for the community, and in the church? 1 Corinthians 5:9, 11 What other sins does Paul mention as needing disciplinary action? Why would they be advised not to even eat with the disciplined individual? Tuesday: Protecting the Church’s Identity In chapter five, Paul made a good case for how immorality should be handled, and not ignored by the church. Church discipline must be administered whenever necessary to protect the reputation and influence of the church. The first half of chapter six emphasizes the danger of taking petty, minor disputes to public criminal courts. Many times, such non-criminal offenses can be judged by the church alone. As the saying goes, we should not be “airing our dirty laundry in public” unnecessarily. It can often be done quietly and discreetly within the church. Wisdom and spiritual discernment are available to Christians through the Holy Spirit. As Paul reminded them in 1 Corinthians 6:3, someday they would even be judging angels–a reference, of course, to the angels who joined Satan’s ranks and rebelled. See Jude 6. Verses for reflection and discussion: 1 Corinthians 6:1-13 How has the church, several denominations in fact, misapplied Paul’s counsel and covered up sexual promiscuity with minors, for instance? How and why must we avoid covering up sexual sins, just to protect the church’s reputation? Where do we draw the line, and still follow Paul’s advice? 1 Corinthians 6:3, Jude 6, Revelation 20:4 When and how will the righteous judge angels? Wednesday: Antidote Against Sexual Immorality Several church denominations continue to believe that once we are saved, we are always saved from that time forward–giving the impression that our behavior no longer matters after we are saved. This mindset also seemed to be that of the Corinthians. But <a class="cat-post-excerpt-more" href="https://www.outlookmag.org/the-teachers-notes-sin-in-the-church-lesson-4/" title="Continue reading The Teacher’s Notes–Sin in the Church, Lesson 4 Adult Bible Study Guide, 2026 3Q, “First and Second Corinthians”“>Read more…
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Creation Re-Booted VIII No More Sea
– July 14, 2026We began with a crashed system and a reboot. We end somewhere else entirely. Look back at where we started. A world created for joy and collaboration, corrupted by a virus introduced in a garden, cascading through four generations until Lamech sang his war song to his wives. A God who grieved — not that He had made humanity, but that humanity had made itself into this. The event log recording each catastrophic step. And then the flood. De-creation running Genesis 1 backward. The firmament failing. Dry land disappearing. Eight souls afloat in a watery world without form and void. The same darkness. The same deep. The same silence. Then: God remembered Noah. The wind passed over the waters. The dove flew out and found no rest, flew out and returned with an olive leaf, flew out and did not return. The ark rested on Ararat. Noah, whose name meant rest, offered his sacrifice. And God smelled the aroma of rest — nîḥôaḥ — and found His own rest from the terrible work of the Flood. The reboot was complete. Or nearly. Here is what God said to Himself in that moment. “I will never again curse the ground on account of man, for the intent of man’s heart is evil from his youth.” Read that carefully. God is not rewarding improved humanity. He knows the virus persists. He is simply choosing a different response to the same human failure. The flood was the last of its kind — not because humanity graduated beyond needing it, but because God committed to a different way forward. Something shifted. Not in us. In Him. And that shift echoes forward through the entire Scripture. Once you hear it, you cannot stop hearing it. Moses stretched his hand over the Red Sea, and the waters divided. Israel walked through on dry ground. The army of Pharaoh — the men who had drowned Hebrew sons in the Nile — drowned in turn. Judgment and deliverance. Same water. Same act. Forty years later, the Jordan parted. Another generation walked through on dry ground into the land God had promised. The pattern repeating. The waters gathering, the dry land appearing — day three of creation, enacted again. Centuries later, the prophets described the coming restoration in the same language. A highway through the wilderness. Water in the desert. A new exodus. A new creation. And in Revelation, the Euphrates dried up. The last great water barrier removed. The people of God crossing over, once more, on dry ground. The final echo of the first creation — waters gathered, dry land appearing, life renewed. When God delivers His people, He signs His work the same way. The waters part. The dry land appears. The creation day repeats. The Flood wasn’t an interruption of that pattern. It was the pattern’s first full statement. The template from which every subsequent act of divine deliverance was drawn. You have been sitting in the concert hall your whole life. The symphony has been playing since Genesis 1. Every exodus, every crossing, every parting of waters — the same theme, the same composer, the same signature in the music. Now you know what to listen for. Because the symphony isn’t finished. The virus persists, as God Himself acknowledged at the close of the Flood. The reboot was real but not final. The rest that Noah’s name promised, that the ark found on Ararat, that God smelled in the smoke of the sacrifice — it was genuine. But it was foretaste, not fulfillment. The score has one more movement. The waters will part again. The dry land will appear again. And this time, the rest will be permanent. “And there will be no more sea.” The first creation began with water covering everything. The new creation ends with the water gone. The chaos finally, fully, permanently gathered and held. The reboot will be complete. “Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”
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Radish Recipe Easy Radish Dish
– July 13, 2026https://youtube.com/shorts/xbfQXz_ccms?si=oQ1-qZam0PZw6fdO
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Calm Your Nervous System Anxiety
– July 13, 2026https://youtube.com/shorts/tNRrXLrGKM4?si=EONXQ5PBinQovkV6
Featured Stories
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Hmong Church Lights Up Their Corner "It only takes a spark..."
– July 13, 2026Sometimes you can walk into a church and just sense that good things are happening. The air vibrates with joy. Members are working instead of watching. Hmong Minnesota Seventh-day Adventist Church is one of those action-packed places where every person seems to know they belong and that they have a task to do. Founded around two decades ago in St. Paul, the Hmong group recently moved into a new building (the former Oromo Church on Central Avenue in Minneapolis) and celebrated their promotion to full church status. The festive ceremony featured traditional music, colorful costumes, Hmong foods, a candlelight dedication, and a visit from former pastoral couple Ko and Terri Saelee, who are now planting a new Hmong congregation in North Carolina. Hmong Americans started arriving from refugee camps in Southeast Asia in the late 1970s and 1980s, and about 100,000 now make their home in Minnesota. Traditionally their religion includes elements of animism, shamanism and Buddhism, though many in Minnesota are open to Christianity. In a 2025 interview with Adventist Review, the Saelees explained that two factors helped guide their early Adventist outreach to the Hmong in Minnesota: first, the importance of building a support system for new members who may feel like outcasts after becoming Christians, and second, the need to gain the respect and friendship of Hmong leaders before introducing Christianity to other group members. This cultural understanding helped to establish the Hmong congregation as a sustainable model for making disciples. In January 2024, Pastor Rachan Ritti-traiphop and his wife, Pranee Sereepat, arrived in Minnesota to serve the Hmong believers. A crucial part of Pastor Rachan’s ministry is purposely getting out to meet more people. The larger Hmong community is tightly interwoven, so he attends weddings, funerals, parties, family gatherings, sports events—any place where people come together. He also asks church members to introduce him to their relatives and friends. Later he invites these new acquaintances to his home for a meal, where he introduces them to other Hmong church members so everyone can get to know each other and form a circle of support and care. Before believing, many people need to experience belonging. Lonely people who are adjusting to a new culture are often reluctant to leave the house, so Pastor Rachan regularly visits Hmong families in their homes. He asks questions about their lives and listens more than speaking. The first visit ends with prayer, and future visits include Bible study for those who are interested and preparation for baptism when they are ready. “In developed countries and urban societies, one thing people need most is relationships,” he says. “Loneliness is like a disease that eats away at human happiness.” Like the Saelee family and others who served before him, Pastor Rachan understands that respect for community leaders is essential when approaching the group-oriented Hmong. He advises “handling the snake by its head,” or engaging with leaders first, showing honor, and seeking their advice before launching community service projects. Hmong Adventists are now known for singing and offering encouragement at funerals, attending family clan meetings in the Twin Cities, opening their church building for community events, and providing teams of church members to carry out volunteer work. Pastor Rachan says one of his ministry heroes is Moses, who loved the Israelite people and was even willing to give his own life because of their sins (Exodus 32). Just as Moses did, Pastor Rachan depends completely on God’s power as he mentors new leaders and models biblical steps for growing a healthy church family. Becky Scoggins is a freelance writer for Minnesota Conference.
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AdventHealth Parker Team Members Save a Life at Local Race
– July 13, 2026What began as a typical race day quickly turned into a life-saving moment for three AdventHealth Parker team members at the Platte River Half Marathon on April 12. As runners made their way through the course, Erin Ward, chief operating officer at AdventHealth Parker, noticed a fellow runner just ahead veer off the trail and collapse face-first. “I was about to tap him on the back to encourage him,” he said. “Then, in an instant, everything changed. The moment I saw his face, I knew something was very wrong.” Without hesitation, Ward called 911, working to describe their location along the river trail as clearly as possible. At the same time, he called his colleagues Antje Oudakker, director of nursing surgical services and Scott Stanley, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at AdventHealth Parker, who were just behind him on the course. Within seconds, the three were joined by others nearby and immediately sprang into action. “There was no hesitation,” Oudakker said. “Our training kicked in and everyone remained calm, focused and acted quickly.” Oudakker and Dr. Stanley began performing CPR while Ward coordinated emergency response. For the next several minutes, a group of strangers, many with healthcare backgrounds, worked together, rotating through CPR efforts until emergency responders arrived. “It was incredible to see,” Ward said. “I felt an overwhelming sense of pride watching Antje and Dr. Stanley. Their focus, skill and determination were incredible to witness. It’s a moment I’ll carry with me—it deepened my appreciation for what they do every day and inspired me to sign up for [a Basic Life Support course] myself. It really opened my eyes to how quickly something like this can happen and how being prepared can make all the difference.” Though the race continued around them, the moment carried a profound weight. “It was surreal,” Oudakker said. “He likely had the same anticipation for race day that I did. But in that moment, it became clear there was a reason we were there.” Thanks to their swift action and the collective effort of those nearby, the runner’s life was saved. “He didn’t have any damage to his heart muscle and is already on the road to recovery,” Dr. Stanley said. “It’s incredible to know he may be feeling better than he has in years.” For the team, the experience reinforced something deeper than training alone. “This was a powerful reminder that our mission doesn’t stop at the hospital doors,” Ward said. “In that moment, it meant showing up, taking action and helping save a life right there on the trail. It showed me that being present and willing to step in can have a profound impact. AdventHealth is so much more than a place. It’s a community. Whether we’re inside the hospital or out in the world, that mission lives in us. It’s not just something we do at work—it’s part of who we are.” Oudakker echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. “Cardiac events can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time,” she said. “Because people stepped in and responded without delay, a life was saved.” Dr. Stanley added, “This is exactly why it’s so important for people to learn basic lifesaving skills like CPR. You truly never know when you might be in a position to help someone in need and being prepared can make all the difference.” Explore CPR training opportunities by visiting AdventHealth.com/Events.
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Running the Race: Faith, Endurance and the Boston Marathon
– July 13, 2026The early morning air in Boston carried a different weight on April 20, 2026. The common bond of marathon running had brought together a gathering of unique people from every U.S. state and 130 countries. And for Craig Carr, the starting line of the Boston Marathon was more than another run—it was the testing ground of a discipline built one mile at a time over many years. Carr is no stranger to running. Known for his daily running streak, for more than seven years his routine has become part of his life—and his faith. But Boston required something more. It called him to take years of steady discipline and apply it on one of the world’s biggest stages. A different kind of preparation “Daily running and endurance training are conflicting objectives,” Carr explains. His daily run, which is connected to his devotional life, builds a strong foundation. But the demands of marathon training typically include rest days following long training runs—something his routine does not allow. “My typical rest day is an easy five miles at about a 116/min heart rate,” he says. Still, it’s not just about physical training. It’s about consistency over time. The daily discipline is what normalizes both the good days and the not-as-good days, to be able to take things as they come, building resiliency, Carr says. That mindset shaped how he approached race day. But there was an additional element of preparation required to qualify for Boston: Carr had to get faster. The daily routine needed to include some occasional speed work that pushed the cardio threshold and fitness level higher while growing in endurance. Over a period of three years, this included running a marathon of 4:21:59 (9:58/mile pace) in 2022, to eventually qualifying in 2025 for Boston with a 3:23:51 (7:46/mile pace). This improvement of almost an hour required another shift in mindset to build up speed as well as endurance. Faith in every step For Carr, running is deeply connected to his spiritual life. That association became even more evident on race day in Boston. “Throughout the race, various praise songs and scriptures would come to mind,” he says. That morning, one passage stood out in a powerful way: Isa. 40:31. “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” “This set my mind on the Lord’s strength, on eagle’s wings, of running without weariness; how appropriate for a marathon!” Carr exclaimed. As the race moved into the second half, he began to feel the benefit of his daily routine. “During the race, particularly the second half, there were moments when I could sense the investment in the daily routine was offering its return.” That consistency showed up in his ingrained rhythm of movement and steady pacing. The battle at mile 21 Every marathoner reaches a point where the challenge becomes more than physical. For Carr, that moment came at Heartbreak Hill, around mile 21. The uphill climb comes at a time that often coincides with a similar mile mark known as The Wall, in which the body begins to shut down from fatigue. The result is both physical strain and mental challenge. “It is certainly physical exhaustion, but even more so a mental battle to keep going, keep moving, keep racing,” Carr says. “Hearing the crowd that lined the streets and cheering others along in their struggle uplifted my own spirits.” Carr sees a clear connection here to everyday life. “The mental stamina needed toward the end of a marathon is like trying to make complex decisions or have a tough conversation with someone when you are very tired, stressed—and want to just be done.” In those moments, mindset matters most. “Fighting the negative self-talk and the ‘inner quitter’ becomes extremely important in the final miles.” The finish line The difference between Carr’s daily runs and the marathon became most clear in the final miles. “The daily is most often a smooth, cruising speed—with lower heart rate—of distances of five to six miles,” he explains. But race day demanded far more. “When running more than four times that far, it’s those final miles before the finish line that are difficult to simulate adequately. But the daily discipline, in all types of weather and challenges of schedule, and various levels of fatigue, builds a foundation of consistency that provides the edge for pushing the limit a little farther and a little faster.” Crossing the finish line brought a powerful mix of emotions—a unique combination of exhaustion and elation, of relief and joy, of agony and accomplishment. And all around him, other runners shared the moment. The expressions of fellow runners offered glimpses of their story through smiles, high fives, tears and shouts. More than a race Carr states that Boston brought lessons that went beyond training. Unlike his quiet morning runs, the marathon environment was filled with travel, crowds and the energy of a global event—energy that can also bring added pressure. The excitement and nerves of race day can easily become overwhelming, adding unnecessary strain if not managed carefully. For Carr, the solution was simple: to rely on the familiar rhythms of his daily routine, allowing him to arrive at the starting line energized rather than depleted. The experience also revealed something deeper. “Boston reminded me that there are runners from all over the world, many who lead such vastly different lives, yet once on the course we are united in purpose to cross the finish line.” That shared purpose created a lasting impression. “It is an experience I will always treasure.” Running the greater race For Carr, the Boston Marathon ultimately points to something greater described in Heb. 12:1–2: “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses… let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.” From Read more…
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A Broader Perspective on Our Diet Health Message The emphasis appears to be consuming the most nutritional diet available no matter where we live.
– July 8, 2026Our health message covers a broad area, but is our health message regarding diet basically about vegetarianism? Or should our perspective of this message be much broader? If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit a vegetarian diet today can be unhealthy. Compared to even 50 years ago, the average American diet contains a massive amount of calories from added fats, high concentrations of sugar, salt and ultra-processed foods. The Bible clearly states our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit 1 Cor 6:19-20. Because of this statement one aspect of understanding is our bodies should only receive the most nutritional food we can provide them all the time. This is how Jesus ate. There was no refrigeration during His time. There was no global transportation to ship whatever food He wanted twelve months of the year. He ate the most nutritional food available in those days. I would suggest the key words are “most nutritional” and “availability.” Another powerful biblical message is the aspect of self-control in Gal 5:22 and Prov 25:28. We can also read about God’s blessings received for diet choices from Daniel and his friends experience in Dan 1:12 and how God blessed them for their choice. God provided the number one and most nutritional diet during creation. About two thousand years later He advised us on the second most nutritional diet available when after the flood came the beginnings of seasons: drought, famine, cold winter freezes, poor soil conditions, etc. The perfect all-encompassing global greenhouse of growing all year round was destroyed to just a few months of the year. Availability In 1863 Mrs. Ellen White was given a vision regarding health. The Lord divinely and loving shared so much information through Mrs. White that it took an entire book to compile the health message. We read in Counsels on Diet and Foods 380.2 that our diets should return to the original and healthiest Garden of Eden diet. The time frame when she received this message is when the ability of man and industry was able to adjust to the post-effects of the global changes that had occurred since the flood. Massive agriculture capabilities and global shipping with refrigeration was beginning. In The Ministry of Healing 297.1 she writes about the improvements and abilities of food transportation. Today we can buy all the Garden of Eden foods anytime we want, twelve months of the year and some stores provide them around the clock. Science is confirming and supporting the message she was impressed to share 150 years ago. Do a Google search and read the latest recommendations by The American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations, March 2026. Celebrating life It takes faith to believe God knows best. We honor God by providing His temples with the most nutritious foods. This is how we receive the same blessings as Daniel and his friends received. We have had this health message of faith in what God Himself instructed for over 150 yrs. These are messages of love and concern from our deeply caring heavenly parent, creator and savior to the temples He gave His life for. These are messages Mrs. White was impressed to pass down to us from Him so that we can understand how to celebrate life in the purest form. Our bodies do not belong to us; they are on loan. The earth is a training ground. Are we training our appetites for heaven? The choice is ours. 1 Cor 10:31: Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Important Note: Please read possibly the clearest statement of how God looks upon our choice of diet. Tom Taylor is a retired General Conference of Seventh-day Adventist employee.