When more than 500 people gathered for Southview Seventh-day Adventist Church’s first Sabbath in its new home, the celebration marked more than a move. It reflected years of prayer, shared leadership and patience—lessons Pastor Sean Lee (이세현) believes can help other churches navigate major decisions under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. For Southview, the journey included three distinct seasons: leaving an owned church building, worshiping in a rented space for nearly seven years, and finally moving into a permanent home in Eagan, Minnesota. Pastor Lee says each stage shaped the church long before the doors to the new building opened. “This wasn’t just about finding a church,” Lee said. “It was about who we were becoming as a church while we waited.” Leading through transition, not around it When Southview sold its previous building and moved into a rental church, leaders faced a key choice: slow down and wait, or continue growing as if the church already had a permanent home. Lee said the leadership chose to keep moving forward. “If we weren’t growing while we were renting,” he said, “it would be even harder once we moved. We didn’t want to restart everything.” That mindset shaped how elders, deacons and ministry leaders approached the season. Children’s ministry, Pathfinders and outreach continued. Leaders stayed intentional about connecting with families and members, even when space and scheduling were limited. Lee admits the rental years brought challenges, but he also sees them as shaping who the church is today. “That season taught us flexibility, humility and how to depend on one another,” he said. A team-led search, not a pastor-driven one One of the strongest themes in Southview’s story is shared leadership. Lee is clear that the search for a church home was never his project alone. “If you have Spirit-filled, mission-driven people with professional skills, let them lead,” he said. “Pastors shouldn’t pretend they know everything.” Southview formed a facility steering committee that included members with experience in finance, management, architecture and law, along with a mix of younger and older members. Instead of guessing what the church needed, the group gathered real information—observing children’s programs, measuring space and studying how ministry actually functioned. The church board and congregation were kept informed along the way. Lee said this transparency mattered. “People needed to feel ownership,” he said. “This wasn’t about one voice. It was about discernment together.” When listings were limited, elders expanded the search by driving through different communities, identifying churches that might fit, and making calls. Lee said the process required persistence and participation from many people—not just leadership meetings.   Prayer as more than a formality Planning and spreadsheets were part of the process, but Lee says prayer carried equal weight. Southview’s prayer teams consistently lifted the search, especially during discouraging seasons when options seemed nonexistent. “At one point, there was nothing out there,” Lee said. “That’s when we realized all the planning in the world doesn’t replace God’s timing.” That lesson became clear when the church explored purchasing the building it had been renting. Leaders believed it made sense, but doors repeatedly closed. Rather than pushing forward, they paused. Looking back, Lee believes God was redirecting the church. “We thought that was the path,” he said. “But God led us away from it and toward something better suited for us.” When the building Southview ultimately purchased became available, it did not immediately stand out on paper. But leaders felt impressed to visit and pray. Once inside, many sensed the same conviction: this was where God was leading. “It wasn’t the option we expected,” Lee said. “But it was the one that brought peace.” Funding the vision—together Southview’s ability to move forward was supported by multiple capital campaigns over several years, rather than one large push. Lee said the goal was not just raising funds, but keeping the vision alive during a long waiting period. Early campaigns helped prepare the church for transition. Later efforts reminded members that renting did not mean giving up. Even when there was no clear building on the horizon, members continued giving faithfully. One capital campaign stood out for its impact—the one led largely by young adults. Instead of simply participating, young adults were invited to lead, with support from experienced leaders. Some brought professional experience in fundraising, finance and planning. The campaign focused on the idea of Planting Our Future, emphasizing that the next generation had a stake in where the church was headed. “It felt different when young adults stood up and said, ‘This is our future,’” Lee said. “It gave them ownership.” That involvement strengthened the church across generations. Older members saw young leaders stepping forward. Younger members felt trusted. Together, the church stayed engaged in the long process of waiting and preparing. Lee believes church identity played a major role in the success of the campaigns. “People need to know who they are, where they’ve come from, and where they’re going,” he said. “When that’s clear, generosity follows.” Moving carefully into what God provided When Southview finally moved into its new building, leaders resisted the urge to rush decisions. Lee said the number of choices—large and small—was overwhelming. Moving too fast, he warned, can divide a church. “We wanted to do things right, not just do them quickly,” he said. That same intentional approach continues as Southview settles into its new community. The church is now in a visible location, known to residents and community leaders. Lee sees that as both a responsibility and an opportunity. Southview’s mission statement—“Sharing the truth, love, and hope found in Christ Jesus”—guides the next chapter. The word sharing, Lee says, is intentional. The church wants to be outward focused, connected to its new community, and guided by the Holy Spirit as it builds relationships in Eagan. A visible place, and a clear calling Southview’s new church sits on a hill near a well-known intersection in a highly visible location. Lee said he has been preaching from Matt. 5:14–16, especially the line: <a class="cat-post-excerpt-more" href="https://www.outlookmag.org/how-southview-found-a-church-home/" title="Continue reading How Southview Found a Church Home Prayer, people and patience“>Read more…

The Sabbath is not something we can shape or claim on our own terms; it is God’s gift of rest, designed in His perfect wisdom. God is too big to make a mistake, too loving to give a blessing that fails, and too wise to let us find true rest apart from His way. When we step into the Sabbath by faith, trusting His timing and guidance, we enter His peace, refreshment, and joy exactly as He intended. It is not about rules or obligation, but about receiving His rest as a gift — a sacred invitation to pause, reflect, and be renewed in the presence of the One who is perfect in all His ways. Hebrews 4 invites us into one of the most beautiful themes in all of Scripture: the promise of God’s rest. The chapter reaches back to Creation, passes through Israel’s wilderness experience, and comes forward to the present moment with a living appeal: “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it” (Hebrews 4:1, KJV). This rest is not merely physical. It is spiritual, relational, and deeply personal. It is the rest of trusting God. The writer explains, “For we which have believed do enter into rest” (Hebrews 4:3). Faith is the doorway. Rest is the result. Where there is genuine trust in God’s character and Christ’s saving work, the anxious striving to secure salvation by our own performance comes to an end. Verse 10 adds, “For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from His.” This is not a call to inactivity, but a call to stop self-reliant religion and begin grace-empowered obedience. Where, then, does the Sabbath fit? Hebrews 4 does not diminish the Sabbath — it anchors it more firmly. Verse 9 states plainly, “There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.” The word used points directly to Sabbath rest. The weekly Sabbath still stands as God’s appointed day, a memorial of Creation and a sign of redemption. But Hebrews shows that the Sabbath is more than a calendar observance — it is meant to express an experienced reality: resting in God by faith. The Sabbath becomes most meaningful when it is kept by those who have entered heart-rest in Christ. It is not merely a pause from labor; it is a celebration of grace. We stop working not only with our hands, but with our souls. We remember that God is Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier — and that transformation is His work before it is ours. This harmony between faith and obedience is captured beautifully by Ellen G. White: “The Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy” (Desire of Ages, 288). The Sabbath is not opposed to grace — it is a sign of grace at work. It points to the One who creates, saves, and restores. True Sabbath keeping is not legalism; it is faith expressed in loyal love. In a restless age marked by pressure, performance, and spiritual uncertainty, God still speaks the invitation: enter My rest. Trust My Son. Receive My grace. Then keep My Sabbath — not as a burden, but as a delight. The Saturday weekly Sabbath is God’s gift of rest, offered in His perfect way and timing. It is a pause that belongs to Him, a sanctuary of peace He has prepared for our souls. We cannot fashion it into our own schedule or rules and expect to receive its fullness — the blessing comes when we step into it as God designed, trusting Him to guide our hearts and minds into true refreshment. By faith, we enter this sacred rest, letting go of our own striving, and discover the joy, calm, and renewal that only God can provide. It is a day not of obligation, but of invitation — a gentle, loving call from our Creator to experience His rest, His order, and His care for us. Think of your week like a fast-flowing river. The Sabbath is like a calm pool along the riverbank — a place to stop, rest, and enjoy the still water before continuing downstream. It refreshes your body, mind, and heart. As the Psalmist reminds us: “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul” (Psalm 23:2–3). Here is the Sabbath in action — not our striving, but God’s gift of restoration, renewing every part of us and pointing our hearts to Him. May you step into this gift of rest each Sabbath, letting God refresh your soul, and carry His peace with you into every day that follows. R. Scott Holder writes for OUTLOOK magazine on a variety of spiritual topics.

As daylight hours lessen, daylight savings time begins and schedules swell, many people may notice a dip in mood and energy. For some, those feelings go beyond the “winter blues.”  Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression linked to reduced daylight during the fall and winter months, when people’s bodies and routines shift.  With awareness, simple daily choices and the right support, whole-person health can be possible throughout every season.  Causes and symptoms of SAD  “The exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood and can be triggered by different factors for different people,” said Brad Sjostrom, LCSW, MAC, AdventHealth Porter’s director of behavioral health. “But shorter days mean less vitamin D production, which affects serotonin, the brain chemical that helps regulate mood.”  The symptoms often mirror those of major depression, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy and difficulty concentrating.  “While SAD occurs more often in regions with less daylight, holiday stress can heighten its impact for anyone, regardless of where they live,” he said.  Healing through connection and community  Social connection can also help combat the symptoms of SAD.  “When you’re feeling down, it’s natural to want to stay home or keep to yourself,” said Joe Oria, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and AdventHealth Porter’s behavioral health clinical supervisor. “But being around people who care about you — like friends, family or even coworkers — can be one of the most beneficial ways to support mental health and start feeling better.”  Cultivating mindfulness, gratitude and balance  Alongside connection, mindfulness and gratitude are also meaningful ways to restore balance to the body, mind and spirit.  “Start with simple, mindful practices, like journaling to nurture gratitude and grounding,” Oria said. “Writing down what you are grateful for helps shift your focus toward hope and possibility.”  The holidays can bring about joy and togetherness, but that can also come with hectic schedules, high expectations and emotional strain. Both experts emphasize the importance of balance and self-care, noting that it’s perfectly okay to rest or decline an invitation.  “Healthy boundaries are important for both mental health and whole-person health,” Oria said. “When we rest, we make room for practices that can bring joy and peace.”  Renewing energy through light and movement  In addition to setting boundaries, creating a routine centered on light can be beneficial.  “Spending time outside, even for a short walk, can make a real difference,” Sjostrom said. “Light exposure, regular movement and steady sleep patterns help the body regulate mood and energy. Even something as simple as opening the blinds during the day can help.”  When natural light is limited, light box therapy can signal the body to stay awake and help regulate mood and energy. Used briefly each day, these special lamps safely simulate sunlight and support the body’s natural balance.  “It’s an easy, effective option that works well for many people,” Sjostrom said. “Combined with other healthy habits, this tool can help the body maintain a healthier rhythm through the darker months.”  Embracing wholeness in every season  Additionally, professional counseling or therapy can provide space to process emotions, strengthen mental health and build practical tools for healing; another way to nurture balance in whole-person health.  “A spiritual relationship — whether through prayer, meditation or quiet reflection — can help bring peace and purpose to body, mind and spirit,” Oria said. “Faith and gratitude remind us that even in life’s darker seasons, light and hope can always be found.”  SAD is a reminder of how closely the body, mind and spirit are connected.  “The winter months can challenge energy and mood, but they can also remind us to slow down and care deeply for ourselves and others,” Oria said. “Whether it’s a walk in the sunshine, a moment of reflection or a conversation with someone who listens, each step toward balance can help you feel more whole.”  Shelby Mulholland, media relations communications coordinator at AdventHealth

A high priority for women’s ministries is promoting the North American Division women’s ministries scholarship program, which provides vital support for young women pursuing higher education at Seventh-day Adventist colleges and universities.  Eligibility requirements:  Must be members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church  Must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at an NAD institution  Must maintain minimum GPA of 3.0  Applicants are evaluated on their commitment to the church’s mission, leadership skills, community outreach, academic achievement, and financial need  Impact over the last five years:  $84,000 was awarded in scholarship funds  37 recipients were supported  Students from 9 Adventist universities and colleges benefited  Support for this scholarship fund can be offered in two ways: by purchasing the women’s devotional book available through AdventSource (with proceeds directed to the scholarship program), or by contributing directly to the NAD Women’s Ministries Department.  A call to continue the journey  As we look ahead to 2026, our mission remains clear: to honor the legacy of seasoned leaders, empower the next generation, and invest in education that strengthens both faith and community. The Lord is coming soon, and we are preparing women—young and old—for ministry that reflects His love and purpose.  Donna Brown is women’s ministries coordinator for the Mid-America Union.   2025 Scholarship Recipient Hi, I’m Hannah Ikpeama. I graduated with my BSN last December from Union Adventist University. I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, attending Central Seventh-day Adventist Church and Hillcrest Seventh-day Adventist School, before moving on to Sunnydale Adventist Academy, where I discovered a love for mission work and service. I was blessed with opportunities to serve in India, at La Vida Mission in New Mexico, and through various community outreach projects that helped shape my passion for ministry. Over the past several years, I’ve served with Kids Camp and community outreach programs in Kansas City, working with refugee and inner-city families to share the love of Jesus. These experiences have shown me that even when service requires sacrifice, God always makes a way for it to remain a meaningful and consistent part of my life—something I hope to carry into my nursing career as well. During nursing school, I discovered a deep love for maternal and child health. I’m excited to begin my career in Labor & Delivery at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission and look forward to pursuing further education as God leads. I love building relationships, singing and creating meaningful memories and connections. My family, friends and everyone who has walked alongside me have played a huge role in where I am today. I feel incredibly blessed by the people God has placed in my life to encourage and support me on this journey. Most recently, He has added yet another reminder of the power of community through the generous donation I received [through the NAD women’s ministries scholarship]. I’m deeply grateful and hope to be a clear example of what your support can make possible.