Signs of the Times - Jan/Feb 2023

RIDE for a reaso n WHY WE DON'T FOLLOW THROUGH

THE POWER OF HUMAN TOUCH

A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE ON THE WORLD TODAY

IN THIS ISSUE

CHOOSING OPTIMISM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

LOSING JEMIMA

Navigating grief and pain after losing a child PAGE 52

32

CURRENT

04 WHAT IN THE WORLD 32 RIDE FOR A REASON

For a worthy cause

WELLBEING

06 ON YOUR BIKE

Why cycling is good for you

60

38

60 GET ACTIVE, SOCIAL,

HEALTHY Why exercising with others is beneficial for optimal health

FAITH

18 GOD IS STILL SPEAKING

How the Bible can change us

CULTURE

38 GAMBLING'S DARK

UNDERBELLY The problem with gambling

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

50 DISASTER-READY

CHURCHES

Safe havens in times

of disaster 12 WHY WE DON'T FOLLOW

THROUGH WHEN WE KNOW WE SHOULD A better approach to self-improvement

30 ASK PASTOR JESSE 44 TRAVELLING WITH GOD

How we learn and grow with God

24 WHY TOUCH MATTERS The science of

Jarrod

human touch

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA 2

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FUN

62 CROSSWORD & SUDOKU

It's hard to believe a new year is upon us. The past three years have been something of a time warp— exceptionally slow and fast at the same time.

Though the world still looks bleak, I’m choosing to enter this new year reset and refreshed. You may be reading this while I'm on paternity leave, getting used to a new member of my family in the joyful bliss bubble that new life brings. For this reason, I want to look on the bright side this year. The new year is a time to celebrate, enjoy the outdoors, catch up with family and friends, and to live your best life while summer lingers.

If you’re looking for some extra motivation, our helpful feature on page 12 will give you a great understanding of how to harness motivation for yourself. Maybe you’ve even taken up cycling in the new year. If so, this magazine is especially for you. Check out our two cycling features (pages 6 and 32).

If this is your first time reading our magazine, welcome. We’re so glad to have you. We are Christians who are passionate about spreading hope, joy and love in the world and our communities. In our magazine you’ll find health and lifestyle articles that will help you be a better you. We talk about faith and belief and examine current events, culture and trends. We also love telling inspiring, amazing stories about real people who are bringing hope and healing to the world.

If you’re not much of a reader, we’ve got podcasts, video, social media: all great places you can keep track of what's happening. Check out <signsofthetimes.org.au> to connect with us. We'd love to hear from you.

JARROD STACKELROTH Editor

VOL 138 NO 1/2 ISSN 1038-9733 EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Dr Brad Kemp EDITOR Jarrod Stackelroth ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jesse Herford ASSISTANT EDITOR Zanita Fletcher COPYEDITOR Tracey Bridcutt GRAPHIC DESIGN Theodora Pau'u Talia Valderrama Nerise McQuillan PHONE +61 2 9847 2222 EMAIL info@signsofthetimes.org.au WEBSITE signsofthetimes.org.au ADDRESS Adventist Media PO Box 1115, Wahroonga New South Wales 2076 SUBSCRIPTIONS Kelli Geelan PHONE +61 3 5965 6300 Australia/New Zealand, $A26; South Pacific countries, $A41; Other countries $A51 Published since 1886, Signs of the Times is printed 11 times a year by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and is registered as a periodical.

Seventh-day Adventist Church (SPD) Limited ABN 59 093 117 689 NOTE The inclusion of a person or their image within does not imply their endorsement of the Seventh-day Adventist Church or its beliefs.

Unless otherwise stated, Bible verses are from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Anglicised. Copyright © 1979, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc®. Used by permission of Hodder & Stoughton. All rights reserved worldwide.

/SIGNSMAG JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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CU

R RENT

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS:

WHAT IN THE WORLD DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOODS

COMPOSTABLE COMMUNION CUPS

SINGAPORE

AUSTRALIA

A dementia-friendly plan has been put in place in parts of Singapore to help those with dementia navigate their neighbourhoods safely and independently. Strategies include zoning areas by three primary colours; signage using large fonts and icons; building facades covered in murals of everyday things and places; and staff to assist people with dementia. Singapore aspires to implement these strategies in more communities so the elderly can age confidently and gracefully.

—The Straits Times

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealanders can have their loved one’s ashes launched into space for a final journey—a unique way for friends and family to pay tribute to the life of their loved one. The Kiwi company StardustME is offering places on-board Elon Musk’s Space-X rockets, with the first flights launching from the United States in early 2023. The individual's remains will be carried by a satellite around Earth’s orbit.—Newshub 4

SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

In response to the single-use plastic ban rollout across Australia, Australian Christian Resources teamed up with BioPak, Australia’s leading sustainable packaging company, to produce the world’s first certified compostable communion cup. The cups are made from plants and can be turned into soil within 8-12 weeks.—Australian Christian Resources

THE STRAITS TIMES, KLEMEN VRANKAR—UNSPLASH, AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN RESOURCES, FREEPIK

REST IN SPACE

THE HISTORY OF

REWIRING BAD MEMORIES

AMERICA

Neuroscientists are discovering how to use people’s positive memories to cure mental health disorders like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. By locating where the brain stores positive and negative memories, they can turn the volume down on negative memories and stimulate happier ones. They are hopeful this innovative therapy could minimise the aversive emotional response behind many mental health conditions.—Boston University

WHO STARTED IT? Today, more than 5000 years since the earliest known New Year celebration, humans are still promising to enter the new year with better conduct—whether to eat healthier, save money, quit smoking or learn a language. Though we might not be doing very well (statistics say only eight per cent of people actualy achieve their goals), where did this tradition begin?

THE BABYLONIANS MAY HAVE STARTED IT More than 4000 years ago, the ancient Babylonians celebrated the new year with a festival called Akitu that lasted 12 days. The festival happened at the start of the farming season. It was a time to plant crops, crown a king and make promises to the gods about paying back debts and returning borrowed farm equipment.

THE ANCIENT ROMANS THEN ADOPTED IT Emperor Julius Caesar introduced a new calendar which declared the first of January the start of the new year. This new date honoured the Roman god Janus, who was said to have two faces—one that looked to the new year and one to the past year.

THEN PEACOCKS STEPPED IN TO HELP Medieval knights would renew their vow to chivalry with an annual "peacock vow".

During a feast, knights would place their hands on a peacock and pledge to uphold their knightly values which included fighting with honour, respecting women, never charging an unhorsed opponent and never attacking from behind.

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ELL B EING

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ON YOUR BIKE:

COULD JUMPING ON A BIKE ENRICH YOUR LIFE? HERE ARE SOME REASONS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER GIVING IT A GO.

BY BRADEN BLYDE

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REASONS WHY CYCLING IS GOOD FOR YOU

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1. More brain power

Researchers from the University of Illinois found that a five per cent increase in fitness from cycling led to an improvement of up to 15 per cent in mental tests. That’s right: cycling can make you smarter. That’s because it helps build new brain cells in the hippocampus, the region responsible for memory.

2. Stop getting sick

Forget apples! Riding a bike is the way to keep the doctor away. “Moderate exercise makes immune cells 8

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“

more active, so they’re ready to fight off infection,” says Cath Collins, chief dietitian at St George’s Hospital in London. Research from the University of North Carolina shows that people who cycle for 30 minutes, five days a week, take about half as many sick days as people who don’t exercise.

Twenty bicycles take up the same amount of space as one car.

3. Live longer

When more than 2400 identical twins took part in research at King’s College in London, those who completed the equivalent of just three 45-minute bike rides a week were nine years “biologically younger” than their identical twin. This is even after discounting other influencing factors, including body mass index and smoking.

5. Save money

Buying and maintaining a bike is around one per cent of the cost of buying and maintaining a car.

Additionally, riding a bicycle 10 kilometres to work daily will save you almost $A2000 per year in transport costs. The savings add up even more if you normally pay for parking.

6. Burn less fuel

4. Avoid pollution

Logic would suggest that a city cyclist would suck up much more pollution than the drivers of cars pumping out exhaust fumes. But it’s not true. Studies have found car drivers experience five times higher pollution levels than commuting cyclists, three-and-a-half times more than pedestrians and twoand-a-half times more than bus travellers.

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B

ike sales skyrocketed during the past couple of years thanks to the change of lifestyle initiated by pandemic lockdowns.

Even now, it is common for keen and would-be cyclists to wait months for their new steeds to become available.

The discoveries these new “Covid cyclists” are making about the sport are nothing groundbreaking. The health, environmental and social benefits of cycling are well known. Cycling’s premier series kicks off with the Tour Down Under in Australia this month, so the reasons to ride are worth revisiting.

Here’s 14 reasons you should get on your bike:

Despite being around for hundreds of years, bikes are one of the most efficient forms of transport invented. On a bike, you travel around three times as fast as walking for the same amount of energy. Considering the additional food you might need to eat to fuel your rides, you do the equivalent of 1998 kilometres per litre.

7. Trees, not roads and carparks

Replacing cars with bikes means less land needed for roads and carparks. Twenty bicycles can be parked in the same space as one car.

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“

TIPS FOR MAKING CYCLING MORE FUN

Many good rides include a stop for a chat and treat at a local café.

Noise pollution does not just impact your sleep but can cause significant damage to the health and wellbeing of wildlife (loud noises have been proven to affect the hearts of caterpillars and cause bluebirds to have fewer offspring). Noise pollution from freeways and other vehicular activity can also interfere with animals’ navigation and choice of locations to hunt and sleep which dramatically impacts the entire ecosystem.

9. Cutting out chemicals

We usually think of exhaust fumes from burning fuel as the only pollutant for cars. But other chemicals like radiator fluid, oil and battery acids are also bad for the environment.

Biking instead of driving reduces all these toxic chemicals.

10. Cycling is social

Bike riding is a great way to connect with friends and expand your social circle. Many cycling clubs are 10

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MAKE YOURSELF COMFY: get a helmet, padded shorts and other clothes that make the experience enjoyable.

set up to ride together without the thought of ever competing. As you’ll quickly discover, many rides include a stop for a chat and a treat at a café.

community means fewer cars and a safer road environment.

Given that most car trips to school are within walking distance, riding a bike for these trips significantly reduces school congestion and improves children’s safety.

11. Doing good for others

Many cyclists turn their health, fitness and determination into fundraising efforts for the causes and people they love. Whether joining an organised fundraising event or simply committing to ride a few extra kilometres a week, thousands of people get on their bike to do a little good every year.

14. Ride local, buy local

When people ride their bikes more often—either for transport, recreation, or both—they are more likely to use their local businesses for their shopping.

The sunny skies and long days make for perfect riding weather. There really is no better time to get out on two wheels and reap all the benefits cycling can offer you, the environment and the people around you.

12. Cut the commute

Congestion costs our economy billions of dollars every year. More bikes and fewer cars mean you, your friends and your neighbours can spend less time on the road and more time looking after yourselves and the ones you love.

13. A safer place for all

More people on bikes in your

SOLSTOCK—GETTY IMAGES

8. Bikes are quiet

Ready to get on your bike but don’t know where to begin? Here are some tips to get you started:

Brayden Blyde is a freelance writer based in Adelaide, South Australia.

GET YOUR SEAT RIGHT: a seat (or saddle, as cyclists like to call them) that is too high or too low will make it more challenging and uncomfortable to ride.

AVOID DOING TOO MUCH TOO SOON: don’t start too fast or too long. Ease into it and enjoy every ride to avoid injury and burnout.

GO EQUIPPED: nothing is worse than getting a flat tyre and having to walk home. A puncture kit or a spare tyre will give you the confidence to ride further.

FUEL THE RIDE: Even if you’re riding to lose weight, don’t forget to eat. You’ll need the extra energy, so enjoy the excuse to fuel up.

KEEP YOUR BIKE CLEAN: a clean bike looks and feels better. A quick wash after each ride will ensure it’s ready for tomorrow (and don’t forget to lubricate the chain).

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ELL B EING

WHY WE DON'T

FOLLOW THROUGH WHEN WE

Another year has come and with it, a new burst of motivation. But why do our ambitions of self-improvement rarely stick the way we hope they will?

BY BRUCE MANNERS

Know

I

n the northern hemisphere summer of 1830, Victor Hugo was in a difficult place with his writing. Twelve months earlier he had promised his publisher a new book.

Instead of writing, though, Hugo spent that year on other projects like entertaining guests and delaying his work.

Frustrated, Hugo’s publisher responded by setting a deadline less

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than six months away. The book had to be finished by February 1831.

Forced into action, Hugo collected all his clothes and asked an assistant to lock them in a large chest.

He had nothing to wear except a large shawl, which meant he couldn’t even go outside. He remained in his study where he wrote through the autumn and winter of 1830. His book, The Hunchback of Notre Dame,

YAKOBCHUKOLENA—GETTY IMAGES

We Should

was published two weeks early on January 14, 1831.1 Hugo achieved what he set out to do after a season of procrastination, but with extreme measures. We all— most of us, at least—have what seems like an inbuilt desire to put things off, to do something more attractive rather than a task we’ve set ourselves.

James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, asks the obvious question:

“Why would Victor Hugo commit to writing a book and then put it off for more than a year?” He has another question, “Why do we make plans, set deadlines and commit to goals, but then fail to follow through on them?”

He answers his question by noting that when we make plans such as to lose weight or write a book or learn a language, they are plans for our future self: “You are envisioning what JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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you want your life to be like in the future and when you think about the future it is easy for your brain to see the value in taking actions with long-term benefits.”

That’s not the case when the time comes to make the decision. You aren’t making a decision about your future self, “You are in the moment and your brain is thinking about the present self. Researchers have discovered that the present-self really likes instant gratification, not longterm payoff.

“This is one reason why you might go to bed feeling motivated to make a change in your life, but when you wake up you find yourself falling into old patterns. Your brain values

long-term benefits when they are in the future, but it values immediate gratification when it comes to the present moment.”

pulling yourself out of the swamp

Ayelet Fishbach and her team have been researching motivation for more than 20 years. She admits, “Trying to sustain your drive through a task, a project, or even a career can sometimes feel like pulling yourself out of a swamp by your own hair [to quote Baron Munchausen]. We seem to have a natural aversion to persistent effort that no amount of caffeine or inspirational posters can fix.”

At the same time, “effective self-motivation is one of the main

things that distinguishes high-achieving professionals from everyone else.”

So how do we achieve what we want to when we find it so hard to follow through on what we want to do?

Fishbach has four “sets of tactics” to help.2

#1 Doing your best is an abstract concept when it comes to goal

DESIGN GOALS, NOT CHORES

setting, and studies have shown that when salespeople have targets, they close more deals. Walking 10,000 steps a day is a specific and measurable goal many find achievable.

“We found that people who made resolutions at the start of January that were more pleasant to pursue—

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“

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Researchers have discovered that the present-self really likes instant gratification, not longterm payoff.

say, taking on a yoga class or phonefree Saturdays—were more likely to still be following through on them in March than people who chose more important but less enjoyable goals.”

#2 Rewards could range from a vacation for completing a

FIND EFFECTIVE REWARDS

project or a gift for losing weight.

Don’t choose incentives that undermine your desired goal, adds Fishbach. “If a dieter’s prize for losing weight is to eat pizza and cake, he’s likely to undo some of his hard work and re-establish bad habits.”

She warns that research has shown that “goal achievement sometimes licenses people to give into temptation—which sets them back”. What we’re attempting to achieve needs to be taken seriously.

#3 What often happens when an individual is working SUSTAIN PROGRESS

toward a goal is that there’s strong motivation early and then there’s a slump. “Fortunately, research has uncovered several ways to fight this pattern. I refer to the first as ‘short middles’.” She refers to making sales targets weekly rather than quarterly, which allows less time to “succumb to that pesky slump”.

Another strategy is to remind yourself of the headway you’ve already made in the project. You can also focus on what you’ve done up to the mid-point of the task, then focus on what’s left to do: “My research has JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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#4 “Listening to what your role

HARNESS THE INFLUENCE OF OTHERS

models say about their goals can help you find inspiration and raise your own sights.” Research has found that offering your wisdom to others helps you lay out a concrete plan to follow, which can help lead to your success. People can also be motivated by others in various ways: “A woman may find drudgery at work rewarding if she feels she is providing an example for her daughter; a man may find it easier to stick to his fitness routine if it helps him feel more vibrant when he is with his friends.”

Fishbach finishes with this advice: “Self-motivation is one of the hardest skills to learn, but it’s critical to your success.”

that exercise we should do

We’ve known for a long time that exercise is good for us. Hippocrates (460-370 BC) wrote about the dangers of too little activity . . . and too much food. However, Harvard Health notes that “the benefits of physical activity are legion, so are the reasons for avoiding it”.3 There’s always something else to do, but we know exercise should have a priority in our lives. However, there’s that must-read book, that television series, that catch-up to organise. These are easier than the sweat and pain of a workout—or 16

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“

There’s always something else to do, but we know exercise should have a priority in our lives.

finding the time to do the 10,000 steps. In his book Live More Active, Darren Morton takes a “three beliefs approach” to help with motivation and follow through on the desire to exercise. They are: 1. I need to be active.

“You will be unmotivated to activate your life unless you believe it is imperative that you do so. . . . You have to believe that you need it!” And to act on it.

2. I can be active.

“Unless you believe change is possible and that you are capable of achieving it, you will clearly have no inclination to strive for it. . . . There is truth to the saying, ‘If you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.’”

3. I deserve to be active and enjoy the associated benefits.

“For many people, credible

DAVIDF—GETTY IMAGES

found that this shift in perspective can increase motivation.”

sources—to them—and unfortunate life experiences have taught them that they do not deserve good things in life.

Tragically, they form a belief that they are not valuable and important. I believe—I know— that every person has tremendous value and incredible worth and deserves a life of health and wholeness.” That includes you.4 The results are worth the effort.

James Clear commented about the brain valuing and desiring instant gratification. The challenge is to look long term and to pursue the benefits for the long term. Research has found that the “ability to delay gratification” strongly predicts success in life. Clear adds: “Understanding how to resist the pull of instant gratification—at least occasionally, if not consistently—can help you bridge

the gap between where you are and where you want to be.” And it will help us in the follow through of our plans.

Bruce Manners is an author, retired pastor and former editor of Signs of the Times. He is based in Lilydale, Victoria.

1. James Clear, “The Akrasia Effect: Why we don’t follow through on what we set out to do and what to do about it," <https://jamesclear.com/akrasia> 2. Ayelet Fishbach, “How to Keep Working When You’re Just Not Feeling it,” <https://hbr.org/2018/11/ how-to-keep-working-when-youre-just-not-feeling-it> 3. Harvard Health Publishing, “Why we should exercise—and why we don’t,” August 26, 2019, <https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/ why-we-should-exercise-and-why-we-dont> 4. Morton, D. (2014). Live More Active. Warburton, Australia. Signs Publishing Company. Pages 114-117.

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FA IT H

Still

GOD IS SPEAKING

A love of books was ingrained in me from a young age, and the Bible remains the best book I’ve ever read.

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BY LYNDELLE PETERSON

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I started school, I would bring my readers home every night and sit at the kitchen table, stumbling through the pages out loud as my mother cooked dinner. Our holidays and weekends were full of trips to the library, where we would load up bags full of various books: fiction, nonfiction, cooking books, travel books, science books, autobiographies, and a whole host of other topics. As I became a better reader, these books began to wield extraordinary power over me. I first recognised this when one time I picked up a book, only to put it down at three o’clock the following morning. I really shouldn’t read books!

the history of reading

Reading is an ancient pastime.

The written word is the primary

“

Over the millennia, many books have been written, but only one approaches universal appeal.

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I

can’t read. When I say, “I can’t read,” I mean, “I shouldn’t read.”

When I say “I shouldn’t read,” I mean that if I want to get anything done at all—if I want to be able to show up for work on time, get the housework done, cook meals for my family, exercise or anything else, I should leave the books on the shelf.

When it comes to reading, I have very little self-control.

Reading was ingrained in me from a very young age. Some of my earliest memories are of my mother reading to us or watching her curl up on the couch with a good book.

She always took a book with her wherever she went. I have vivid images of her at the table, a sandwich in one hand and a book in the other.

As a result, I was desperate to start school so I could learn to read. After

way that humans have transferred knowledge, stories and new ideas. To read is to open your mind and learn about another person’s imagination, biases and internal dialogue.

Reading is almost as old as language. Around 2600 bc, the Sumerians created cuneiform script. It was used to transcribe business dealings and narrate the conquests of kings.

It was reserved for an elite group of scribes who had been trained in an elaborate schooling system to read and write using this specific form of communication.

Since then, writing has progressed, recording elaborate stories, detailed historical accounts and important legal documents. It preserves the human experience and is accessible to any literate person. In its infancy, reading was a performance—the earliest written texts were always intended to be read aloud. The first instance of someone “reading to themselves” isn’t recorded until much later. It would have been entirely appropriate to enter a library and hear a cacophony of sounds as readers verbalised the books in front of them.

the Book of books

Over the millennia, many books have been written, but only one approaches universal appeal.

Thought leaders, artists, academics and ordinary readers have studied it for centuries. This book is the Bible, which has stood the test of time, transcending language,

culture and creed. When it comes to reading, the Bible is the epitome of “the written word”. Its inclusion of narrative, poetry, prose, songs, laws, sermons and letters makes it one of the most diverse pieces of literature in human history. More than 40 authors contributed to this tome with varying writing styles, purposes, backgrounds, generations and even languages. Each literary style is entrenched in its own rules, context and structure. The various books in the Bible—from sacred Jewish literature to first-century narratives—have a unique purpose and message of their own while also contributing to a broader message.

a tapestry of meaning

With such a mix of styles across different eras in history, you would think that the Bible would be a jumble of random and incompatible ideas. But herein lies the beauty of the Book: it has an overarching, cohesive narrative that is supernatural in nature. From Genesis to Revelation, we see an unveiling—an exposure to the themes and personhood of God. Each page, though different in style or language, whispers the truth about Jesus. For the reader, the joy is in discovering a fuller picture of God with each turn of the page.

Beyond this, a larger story spans the book’s entirety: God’s creation and the ultimate rescue of humanity.

The Bible is more than words on pages. It is the tranformational story JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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YES study guide or seek out a trusted friend who’s more familiar with the text. Most importantly, allow it to speak to your heart. Let its words soak into your soul, and your life will be transformed with new meaning and purpose.

Lyndelle Peterson is a pastor and church leader in Melbourne, Australia, where she lives with her young and growing family.

If you have questions about the Bible or would like to learn more about it, email <info@signsofthetimes.org. au> or visit <signsofthetimes.org.au/help>.

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of human history. Each author weaves their thread into a great tapestry and illuminates God’s desire to draw people back into a relationship with Himself.

For every avid reader, there is often a book or two that may be described as “life-changing”. It might be a biography, an essay or a story that keeps you up till late at night. Once you have finished the book, your life is forever changed.

The Bible is one of those books. Its impact is unparalleled, its transformative power is unexpected and those who read its pages can’t help but come away changed.

Try it for yourself. Let the story unfold, find the overarching narratives, explore the changing literary styles and examine the historical records. If you’re not sure where to start, ask for help. Google a Bible

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ELL B EING

WHY

Touch

MATTERS

We all have a different relationship with the concept of touch. One thing is for certain though: at some level, we all crave it.

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BY VANESSA PIZZUTO

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I

the most important sense

A baby can be born deaf or blind and still develop normally and 26

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“

Something as seemingly innocuous as holding a hot drink can make you like people more.

enjoy a rich adult life. However, when babies are severely deprived of touch, as often happened in grossly understaffed orphanages in Romania during Nicolae Ceausescu’s regime, the consequences are disastrous.

Touch plays an indispensable role in early development. David Linden, professor of neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University, says that “growth is slowed, compulsive rocking and other self-soothing behaviours emerge, and, if not rectified . . . disorders of mood, cognition and self-control can persist through adulthood”.

But touch isn’t good just for children or “touchy-feely” people. It’s fantastic for muscular NBA players too. A study found that when players

touched more—celebrating scores with fist bumps, high-fives, head slaps, etc—they performed better.

Why? Because touch fosters trust and cooperation.

Touch shapes the way we perceive and interact with people. Studies show that brushing fingers with a waiter will make you leave a larger tip.

And something as seemingly innocuous as holding a hot drink can make you like people more. Our brains seem to equate the warmth from the cup with warmth of character.

“Interpersonal touch is a crucial form of social glue,” says Professor Linden.

“Pleasant touch activates the brain’s orbitofrontal cortex, which is responsible for feelings of compassion that help us to bond with people.”

high-tech, high touch TYLER NIX 8YOUKEWX0VY—UNSPLASH

mmigrating to the United Kingdom was a bold move. As a Latina, I had a lot to get used to, from cars driving on “the wrong side of the road” and the constant weather talk to the beautiful, fluffy texture of Yorkshire puddings. But one of the most shocking elements of my new culture was how seldom people hugged each other. During my first year, I visited a friend every week for “emergency hugs” until I had finally adjusted.

I fear that I adapted a little too well, though. I remember that on one of my first trips back home, I went to see a dentist for a routine check. When the friendly Argentinean dentist opened his office door, I stretched out my hand in British fashion. But instead of shaking my hand, he grabbed it, pulled me in and kissed me on the cheek. I was in complete shock for a few seconds.

Then, I thought: “Relax, you’re home. This isn’t sexual harassment!”

Why would a dentist whom I’d never met before kiss me? Because an introductory kiss on the cheek is a sign of respect and affection in Argentina. In fact, not to kiss can be seen as arrogant and rude.

While the amount and nature of touch is different from one culture to another, science has revealed that hugging and touching are essential to our wellbeing.

As an expatriate, I really appreciate the opportunity to communicate with my family online. Technology has definitely made the world smaller and better connected. Paradoxically, it also seems to have dehumanised our daily lives, depleting them of

human touch. We shop online or use the self-checkout machine at the supermarket. While we have hundreds of friends on social media, we can manage to go through an entire day without experiencing a single hug.

But is technology to blame for touch deprivation, or can it come to the rescue? Haptics is a new field of study that aims at incorporating tactile sensations into our interaction with computers. In the future, computers will deliver vibrations and other tactile data—through dedicated globes, equipped with sensors—to create the illusion of virtual touch. This interactive touch technology could revolutionise online shopping—imagine being able to feel the fabric of a dress—and help train surgeons to master difficult procedures.

Will our computers hug us one day? Yes. In fact, “hugging technology” already exists! Huggy Pajama is a haptic jacket that allows parents to give a virtual hug to their children.

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your daily quota

My mum used to say that you need seven hugs a day to be healthy.

I don’t believe there is, as yet, a scientifically recommended daily hug quota, but I hope we aren’t too far from the day when doctors will start prescribing hugs the way two servings of fruit and five of vegies are recommended.

Our skin is a fabulous organ—the largest in our body—and it’s covered with about five million sense receptors. There’s a good reason why it takes up so much space and it’s so intricately designed: touch has remarkable power. While we should always respect people’s boundaries, as a society we lose out when we hold back too much and neglect our sense of touch.

Writing this article made me tune in to how much touch I have in my life and where I could add more. If you’d like to increase the benefits of touch in your life, here are a few suggestions: hug your friends and family often, get a massage regularly, high-five your teammates or pat a dog. To give your oxytocin level a super boost, try a 20-second hug with someone you love. Studies show 28

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Personal space

that this will also develop your sense of mutual trust. There’s much to be gained from responsibly embracing our tactile sense!

Finally, it’s thought-provoking to consider that while God created the physical world through His Word, He formed Adam and Eve with His hands! Similarly, when Jesus walked on Earth, He often used His hands to heal people, both physically and emotionally. Jesus touched lepers (Luke 5:12,13), the untouchable people of His time. He allowed a prostitute to wash His feet (Luke 7:36–50). To heal a blind man, Jesus made mud—beautifully replicating the story of creation—and spread it over the man’s eyes (John 9:6).

God, the Creator of the sense of touch, sent a clear message of intimacy and connection through His touch of love.

If you’ve ever ridden a crowded bus, you know that touch isn’t always enjoyable. When personal boundaries are crossed, touch can be unpleasant and even harmful. Recognising the power of touch doesn’t give us an excuse to invade the personal space of everyone around us. Touch nourishes us only in the context of mutual respect.

Safe touch, however, doesn’t have to mean no touch. Safe touch involves learning to set and respect our personal boundaries as well as those of others. Body boundaries are definitely not one-size-fits-all. They vary according to context, culture and personal preferences.

In practice, respecting boundaries could mean allowing your child to politely say, “No, thank you,” when someone wants to give him or her

a tight hug. This can help them to learn they have the right to accept or refuse to be touched. Equally, it could mean allowing colleagues at work to greet each other with a hug if they want to.

Recently, a friend told me that her office banned hugs as a “preventive measure” against sexual harassment.

But avoiding all touch out of fear of being misunderstood or inviting sexual harassment lawsuits doesn’t solve the problem; in fact, it creates another. It means missing out on the power of touch to increase cooperation, trust and compassion. Fostering a culture of respect rather than fear is a far better approach!

Vanessa Pizzuto is a freelance journalist and broadcaster based in London, United Kingdom. A version of this article appears on the ST Network website and is republished with permission.

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Will our computers hug us one day?

MIRIAM-DOERR—GETTY IMAGES

of being hugged. It was developed by Mixed Reality Lab to help parents hug their children while they are on a business trip; but it may also help children with autism who are sensitive to human touch. It’s yet to be discovered whether virtual touch can create real intimacy and connection.

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FA IT H

As a pastor, there are questions I’ve encountered more than once.

They’re sometimes about the Bible but usually they’re about everyday life. If you’ve never had the opportunity to ask a pastor tough questions this is the place to ask them. I’ll do my best to respond honestly, authentically and biblically.

You're a Seventh-day Adventist, right? I've heard of your church, but what do you believe?

—Chelsea, QLD You're correct, I am a Seventh-day Adventist! In fact, this magazine is produced by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Seventh-day Adventists have a rich and interesting history, despite the fact that we're one of the youngest denominations today.

We trace our roots back to the Protestant Reformation of the Middle Ages. Many of our founders were Methodists, Baptists and Presbyterians. William Miller was the man we trace our heritage back to. He was a farmer-turnedBaptist minister who in the 1840s, through study of the

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Bible, became convinced that Jesus was imminently about to return!

As he studied and preached more, he attracted many followers to him to form what eventually became the Millerite Movement. Eventually, the inevitable happened—Jesus didn't return as they hoped He would on October 22, 1844.

But from that great disappointment grew the seed of what would become the Seventh-day Adventist Church. People went back to the Bible to study and pray, and eventually discovered their error.

In humility they admitted they had been wrong, and allowed this mistake to richly inform their theology. We call this "progressive truth"—the notion that God is always revealing more for us, if we have eyes to see it.

Today, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is one of the fastest-growing denominations in the world. We have just under 25 million members worldwide in almost every country in the world. In fact, there are only around 10 countries in the world today that don't have a Seventh-day Adventist church! Every 30 seconds, a new person is baptised into the Seventh-day Adventist Church somewhere in the world.

Seventh-day Adventists are also dedicated to education and health.

We have more than 7000 schools and universities worldwide, with a combined student enrolment of just over 1.5 million. It is the second-largest religious education system in the world, only second to the Catholic Church system.

We also have thousands of hospitals, clinics and medical centres worldwide.

In North America alone, we care for five million patients annually. Seventh-day Adventists care for the holistic health of every person—mind, body and soul. Our health message promotes wholeness in every aspect of your being.

Last but not least, Seventh-day Adventists are deeply committed to helping our neighbour wherever we find ourselves. The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is present in 125 nations worldwide. ADRA seeks to help those in poverty rise above their challenges, provide emergency care and disaster relief, as well as take proactive action against the effects of climate change.

Seventh-day Adventists also practice the Sabbath. From sundown Friday night to sundown Saturday evening, we fellowship, worship and serve in our community. The Sabbath is an incredible wind-down time to help us recharge for the week ahead and remind ourselves of what's most important.

Perhaps most importantly of all though, Seventh-day Adventists believe in Jesus. We are passionate about getting to know our God better and introducing others to Him. We still believe Jesus is coming soon—the only difference from 1844 to now is, we know that no-one (apart from God) knows when that will happen. And so, we'll continue to serve Jesus and our fellow humans as we look forward to the day when He will return and this world will be made new again.

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Cycling is a hobby enjoyed by many people all around the world. But what happens when a group of Christians get together to ride for a good cause?

BY TRACEY BRIDCUTT

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has helped me to gain confidence to take on challenges—and hills— that I would have never dreamed possible.

“It’s amazing what the human body can achieve if only you prepare well for it and are prepared to have a go.”

The father-of-two certainly put his body to the test in May–June

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It’s amazing what the human body can achieve if only you prepare well for it and are prepared to have a go.

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ichael Worker took up cycling in 2020 during the first Covid-19 lockdown in Victoria. Frustrated at being cooped up in his house all the time, he wanted to get out and do something active. However, with gyms closed, he had to look for another way to exercise.

So, he got out his bike . . . and he hasn’t looked back!

Within just 10 months he had achieved an incredible milestone—notching up 10,000 kilometres of cycling—with many of his rides taking him through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne.

“Cycling has been really good for my mental, spiritual and physical health,” Worker says.

“It helped keep me somewhat sane through the upheaval and uncertainty of the lockdowns.

“For me, it is such a blessing to ride through God’s creation in the Dandenong Ranges. It is a chance to pray, reflect and to disconnect from being in front of a screen.”

While cycling can be an individual endeavour, it can also be very social. Worker has joined a local cycling club and has forged some new friendships.

“Joining the group has really improved my cycling and it has been a great way to make new friends,” he says.

“Going out on rides with a bunch of more experienced riders

last year when he was among a group of eight mostly Australian cyclists who completed an epic 1900-kilometre ride from Washington, DC to St Louis, Missouri, in the United States. The cyclists, all Seventh-day Adventist Christians, not only wanted to challenge themselves, but also set out with the intention of sharing messages of love and hope in Jesus with those they met along the way.

“It was such an amazing experience,” says Worker of the 15-day ride. “As we went through the small towns and villages, we had so many positive encounters. People were welcoming, they were receptive to what we had to share and some of them even prayed with us.”

The group experienced a number of challenges, including punctures, thunderstorms, steep mountain climbs and hot weather, but they were an enormous support to each other.

“We formed such a great bond as a team, and I enjoyed the camaraderie,” Worker says.

And now he’s doing it all again— this time in Australia. Seven of the eight cyclists from the US ride are taking off on a new adventure, joined by seven other friends and colleagues. This time the cyclists will be in two groups, with one team setting off from Melbourne, the other from Brisbane. Both rides will wind up in the town of Cooranbong, north of Sydney, where most of the cyclists will be involved in an Australia-wide conference at Avondale University for ministers and leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Following a similar approach to the US ride, the cyclists will be stopping in Australian towns along the way, chatting and praying with people, sharing their faith and distributing Christian literature, including copies of this edition of Signs of the Times.

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NERISE MCQUILLAN—FREEPIK

s

Tip

ring the ride

• Eat regula rly throughout the day • Hydration is a mix of wat critical – drink er and electr olytes regularly • Find a com fortable pace an rhythm – en durance ridin d g is a marathon not a sprint

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Depart ing Tu January esday, 31 Arrivin g Tuesd ay, Feb ruary 7 Distanc e (averag 1200km e1 ride pe 50km r day)

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Tracey Bridcutt is the communication director for the Seventhday Adventist Church in the South Pacific.

• Steadily build up to the longer distances: Build up a base of 50-80km rides, then step up to 100km-120km rides and so on

Tip

For your free electronic copy of the transformational book The Great Controversy visit <www.iwillgoride.org>.

• Eat healthily • Get plenty of rest

Lon

Australia in the early 1890s while carrying out their work.

It’s hoped that this latest Aussie cycling venture may encourage other Christians to come up with their own ways of connecting with their community and showing Jesus’ love.

“We hope that many will be led to know Jesus through this ride,” Worker says, “and that this will inspire others to think of creative ways to share their faith.”

oC ooranbong Melbourne m

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Distance 960km (average 140km ride per day)

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Russ Willcocks will be among actually looking forward to the sense the group riding from Brisbane to of community that doing something Cooranbong, a distance of some 960 like this brings and meeting people kilometres. As captain of the Brisalong the way where we can listen to bane Cycling Club, he is no stranger their story and offer a sense of hope,” to long distances—in a typical said the father of two young boys. week he rides between 250 and 300 Nick Kross may be a grandfather kilometres. but that hasn’t stopped him from “Going on a ride with colleagues getting involved, although he expects is a lot of fun, but to go out sharing that the ride will push him to his and praying with people at the same limits. time, I certainly “Sore legs, feet, found in the behind, are part American trip it of the journey. I made for memories recognise this as a that you just don’t reality, but as they forget, experiences say, no pain, no I want to be active with people where gain,” he laughs. it’s obvious that Kross has till my 80s and God has gone before completed one other as such, I need to you, He’s lined up long-distance ride, these people to back in 1987—from keep up a regular meet with you and Brisbane to the rural they’ve described town of Goondexercise program.” a life-changing iwindi—to raise encounter,” he says. funds for the local Willcocks expects the weather hospital “and it was a great success”, conditions to be the biggest chalhe recalls. lenge. “The Australian heat can be “As we get older it’s really impretty gruelling, just to be outside let portant to maintain our fitness and alone be exercising.” health,” he says. “I want to be active Unfortunately Willcocks recently till my 80s and as such, I need to broke his foot while playing in the keep up a regular exercise program park with his son. By the time his of some kind. I enjoy riding as it’s a foot is ready to come out of the great way to stay healthy and fit.” moon boot, he will have two weeks The inspiration for both the US to get back on a trainer and prepare and Australian rides comes from for the ride. pioneer Christian booksellers Phillip For Marcus Pereira, this will be his Reekie and his nephew Frederick, first long-distance ride, so he’s anticwho rode bicycles thousands of ipating “pain and plenty of it”! “I am kilometres through remote parts of

th fore e ride Be

ow th e ride on

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GAMBLING'S DARK

Problem gambling in Australia and New Zealand is an issue seldom talked about, but we ignore it at our peril.

BY JESSE HERFORD

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the sobering reality

A report from the Queensland Treasury in the 35th edition of Australian Gambling Statistics revealed that in 2017 and 2018, Australians bet more than $A242 billion.2 This isn’t indicative of either money lost or won: it is simply how much is taken from Australian bank accounts into the hands of betting companies. New Zealanders have gambling problems of their own, notably spending more in 2020 on poker machines than they had in the country’s entire history, despite the financial stresses of the Covid-19 pandemic.

On this side of the ditch, Australia has, for several years now, held the “honour” of being the gambling capital of the world. If we were to average out the numbers based on the 25 million-or-so Australians aged 18 or over, it would translate to each adult Australian spending $A12,000 on gambling every single year. Oh, and by the way, that number is rising.

One thing is for certain: gambling is smarter and more pervasive today than it ever has been. Like SportsBet, most gambling nowadays happens on smartphones. Regardless of who you are, how much money you have or what your life conditions are, the gambling industry in Australia is using all its resources to advertise to you. Now more than ever, you don’t need to go to a shady casino or pub to gamble (though they are still as popular as ever). You can go to the pokies, bet on a horse race, throw

If we were to average out the numbers based on the 20 million-or-so Australians aged 18 or over, it would translate to each adult Australian spending $12,000 on gambling every single year.

—GETTY IMAGES

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ow about this filly in the fifth fellas, put a $50 on it?”

Those were the words of retired American NBA player Shaquille O’Neal in a recent ad campaign run by Australian gambling company SportsBet. Appearing alongside Aussie comedy group The Inspired Unemployed, Shaq plays the “straight man” to the unintelligible jargon of his companions. Answering his questions with outbursts of “yeah nah, yeah nah” and the occasional whistle (which is, of course, vernacular typical of every Australian), Shaq shrugs his shoulders saying: “you Aussies sure are built different!” He then, of course, expounds on how great the SportsBet app is.

It’s no wonder the ad campaign didn’t go down well with its intended audience. Many Australians were offended by how it caricatured them as crude, unintelligent Crocodile Dundee types.1 Personally, I was only offended by how inescapable the ads were. Whether it was TV, Reddit, Youtube, the side of a bus, Facebook or just a highway billboard, it seemed that for a few weeks in mid-2022, I couldn’t escape Shaq’s goofy gaze wherever I went. Having lived in Aotearoa New Zealand for several years, I was shocked when I returned to Australia and discovered how in-your-face gambling advertising is here. That’s not to say gambling isn’t advertised in the land of the long white cloud: TAB and Lotto both advertise on TV, but by comparison it’s much more regulated.

dice into a roulette machine or be dealt into a game of poker all from the convenience of your smartphone.

That’s not even to mention gambling’s affiliation with organised crime. In 2020, Troy Stolz—a former employee of ClubsNSW—leaked an internal report to independent MP Andrew Wilkie. The report alleged that 95 per cent of clubs in NSW didn’t legally comply with anti-money laundering counter-terrorism laws and that many clubs were actively involved in laundering money for gangs. Stolz, whose job was to ensure members “meet regulatory compliance and deliver best practice”,3 found himself continually frustrated. He claimed that he had tried to address the issues

with internal management for more than five years. Realising nothing was going to change, he resigned and leaked the document. Talking to the Sydney Morning Herald, he said: “I couldn’t sleep at night, it was eating me that they were going to get away with non-compliance . . .

Crimes such as money laundering, child prostitution, arms trafficking, terrorism financing are all being essentially enabled by ClubsNSW’s failure to address its [anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing] obligations.”4 At the time of writing, Stolz was fighting an ugly court case with ClubsNSW while at the same time being terminally ill with bone cancer.

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If you have been impacted by problem gambling, there is hope.

The God who brings freedom from any addiction can help break your cycle, too. With the support from loved ones, an encouraging church community and professional help, there is light at the end of the tunnel for you, no matter how hopeless it may seem. Whether it’s a family member, a friend or a Christian you know, reach out today. It’s never too late to find freedom.

the love of money

Today, many Christians still oppose gambling, and for good reason. The Bible has very little to say about gambling per se, though it does have a lot to say about the very real effects money has on us. As the apostle Paul says in 1 Timothy 6:10, the love of money “is the root of all evil”. Notice he didn’t say that money is the root of all evil; rather, the love of it. As with many things, when we place emphasis on money over the important things in life (health, relationships, spirituality, self-sacrifice), we create an internal imbalance that allows greed and selfishness to gain a foothold in our lives. Whether it is the parent who can’t feed their child on account of their pokies addiction or the young person who can’t afford health care 42

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because of their spending habits in a mobile game—we don’t need to look far to see how money can so easily become the source of incredible evil. As author Andrzej Sapkowski remarks in his novel The Last Wish, “Lesser, greater, middling, it’s all the same.” Evil is evil, no matter how large or small a form it takes. Christians historically have viewed gambling as evil, no matter how benign it presents.

In the wake of the Second Great Awakening, a Protestant religious revival in the mid-19th century, many Christians became abolitionists and women’s suffrage supporters as well as joining movements that were opposed to alcohol, drugs and gambling. Ellen White, one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and a staunch opponent of gambling,

NIKOLA STOJADINOVIC—GETTY IMAGES

The promise of exponential monetary gain for [gambling] is, at its heart, a lie designed to exploit and bring out the worst in you.

once wrote in her book Counsels on Stewardship: “Men lay out immense sums in following these forbidden pleasures; and the result is, their God-given power . . . is degraded and corrupted.” I’ll admit that when I first read that statement, I thought it was a little heavy-handed. However, knowing what I know about the gambling industry today, I find myself agreeing with her wholeheartedly. The reality is, the promise of exponential monetary gain for betting on the right horse or pulling the right lever is, at its heart, a lie designed to exploit and bring out the worst in you. Gambling in any form is designed to bleed you for as long as you’re willing to be bled, with no regard for the lives that are destroyed along the way. As the saying goes: “The House always wins.”

If you want to take your first step toward freedom, you can visit <gamblinghelponline.org.au> in Australia or for New Zealand, <gamblinghelpline.co.nz>.

To connect with a local church or pastor in your community, head to <signsofthetimes.org.au/help>.

Jesse Herford is a pastor and associate editor for the Australian/New Zealand edition of Signs of the Times.

He lives in Sydney, Australia, with his wife, Carina and their miniature schnauzer, Banjo.

1. Of course, the ad campaign couldn’t resist adding in a Paul Hogan reference, with Shaq quipping at the end of one of the ads, “you can just call me Shaqadile Dundee!”

2. <savings.com.au/savings-accounts/gambling-statistics-australia 3. <au.linkedin.com/in/troy-stolz-dip-app-aml-ctfacams-0100a621> 4. <smh.com.au/national/nsw/i-ve-nothing-to-losedying-whistleblower-sued-by-clubsnsw> JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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FA IT H

TRAVELLING

WITH GOD:

how we learn e h t n o w o r g and journey

BY ZANITA FLETCHER

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When we go with God, He gently shows us where we need to grow and empowers us to become the best versions of ourselves.

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not known by yourself but known to others.  The hidden area (the opposite of the blind area): things you know about yourself but others don’t know.  The unknown area: things known neither by yourself nor others, are yet to be revealed, or are known only by God. What the Johari Window tells us is that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. We need people who can gracefully point out our blind spots. The larger our open area is, the more we will know about ourselves, and the better our relationships will be. The blind and hidden areas are the ones we want to reduce. For that to happen, we must be willing to be approachable and vulnerable with others. That can be scary for many of us. But as author and preacher Timothy Keller says, “To be loved but not known is comforting but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is, well, a lot like being loved by God. It is what we need more than anything.”

the Johari window

a trip to India

Researchers have developed a self-reflection tool called the Johari Window. It identifies four ways that we can think about ourselves:  The open area: the parts of yourself that you and others know.  The blind area, or the “I don’t know, but you do” area: things 46

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Some time ago, on a trip to India, my friends and I had the opportunity to learn more about each other. We endured uncomfortable train rides that went 12 hours longer than expected, got sick from side-street samosas, yelled and sulked over silly things, and

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Healthy relationships characterised by trust, vulnerability and growth are one of God’s greatest gifts to us.

ANNIE SPRATT —UNSPLASH

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ave you ever travelled with someone you thought you really liked, only to see a different side of them as the trip progressed? People say travelling is a good way to determine whether someone is “the one” or not. How do they respond when things don’t go according to plan? In their sleep deprivation, will they become aggressive toward the flight attendants? How will they behave if the whole trip is ruined?

Travelling can reveal a lot about us and give us an opportunity to see where we need to grow. Maybe we need more patience, openness, humility or tolerance. Maybe we need to have more fun. Whatever the case, we can look at our journey with God in a similar way.

When we travel through life with God, He will gently show us where we need to grow and empower us to become the best versions of ourselves. He never turns away or abandons our fledgling efforts to follow Him. He sticks with us even though we aren't perfect. As a result, our intentions, desires, values and actions gradually shift.

spent nights on the streets because of poorly communicated arrangements. On our last night together, we walked through Delhi and shared what we had learned about each other—the good and the not-sogood. As we talked, my friends gracefully showed me where I needed to grow (and I’m glad to say that we’re still friends to this day).

Healthy relationships characterised by trust, vulnerability and growth are one of God’s greatest gifts to us. They can be a place of healing and transformation on our journeys.

If we want to grow, we need to be open to listening to those who love God and who want the best for us.

As Ephesians 4:15 says, “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”

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God designed us to be individuals, yet His plan is that we function in a relationship with Him and with others. The degree to which we ignore the parts of ourselves that need to grow and mature is the degree to which our loving service to others is limited. They are the parts that are usually fearful, protective, defensive, manipulative and self-promoting. If we struggle to see areas we need to grow, we can ask God to bring these things to light. He has our best interest at heart, and His greatest desire is to help us confront the barriers that keep us from experiencing His love and goodness. The journey of growing in Him might be hard at times, but the psalmist reminds us,

“

The degree to which we ignore the parts of ourselves that need to grow and mature is the degree to which our loving service to others is limited.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:4, NIV).

BETHANY LAIRD— UNSPLASH

rest in Jesus

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In Matthew 11:28,29, Jesus invites us to come to Him, and He will give us rest. This rest is an invitation for us to partner with Him. “Take my yoke upon you . . . and you will find rest” (verse 29), He says.

Just like plants need water, sunlight and healthy soil to grow, we also need certain things to flourish. Prayer, Bible reading, community, worship, serving others and spending time

in nature will benefit our characters and our relationship with God. As with any relationship, however, we must spend time with the person if we want to learn about them and strengthen our friendship with them.

If you’ve ever travelled with someone, you might have noticed that your behaviours begin to rub off on each other after a while. In the same way, we grow more like Christ by paying attention to our motives, choices and behaviours. Author and Bible commentator, Ellen White, said, “It is by loving Him, copying Him, depending wholly upon Him, that you are to be transformed into His likeness.”

When we anchor ourselves in God’s love, we can focus on partnering with Him to live out His plans for us. We can use our gifts and talents to their full potential, we can grow in love and compassion, and our weaknesses can become strengths to help others. We can know we are growing in Christ as we will be filled with the fruit of His Spirit: “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22,23).

Do you want to grow in Christ?

Seek Him with your plans. Spend time with Him. Ask Him what He is trying to do in you. He is always there, listening, guiding and loving.

Let Him join your journey. You won’t be disappointed.

Zanita Fletcher is an assistant editor for Signs of the Times. She writes from the Gold Coast, Queensland.

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K

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DIFFER

DISASTER-READY

churches

Did you know your local Seventh-day Adventist church could be a safe haven in times of disaster?

S

ummer in Australia often conjures up images of beaches, barbecues and backyard cricket. Unfortunately, for many, summer in Australia means bushfires, cyclones and flooding.

In recent years, disaster events have become more frequent and widespread.

ADRA Australia is partnering with local Seventh-day Adventist churches to help ensure they are always ready to help in times of disaster. Disaster zones are often cut off and the need for immediate support is crucial. ADRA is currently implementing its Disaster Ready Church program, which is utilising the strength of local churches and equipping them to respond in times of disaster.

“To date, we’ve completed four Disaster Ready Church training events,” says Luke Webster, humanitarian officer at ADRA Australia.

The training events, held in Queensland and Tasmania (Ipswich, Mackay, Logan/Edens Landing and Deloraine), brought local churches together across two days. The training covered information such as identifying

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capacity and resources, as well as vulnerabilities within a local church, brainstorming potential activities that would align with the church’s strengths and how to work with the government and other response agencies to ensure a well-rounded response. There are plans to bring Disaster Ready Church training events to south NSW, Victoria and Western Australia in 2023.

“A church full of members that are prepared and trained for a disaster response is one that will be most able to reach out and help others in need when disaster strikes,” says Webster. “We’ll train as many interested churches as possible!”

As well as the Disaster Ready Church training events, ADRA is organising simulation events with trained churches to help them practice activating their disaster plans. In September 2022, ADRA ran a simulation bushfire disaster for participants at a large Adventist camp meeting in south-eastern Queensland.

“We simulated how a fire would come through and how the authorities

IMAGES SUPPLIED BY ADRA

BY ASHLEY STANTON

would respond,” says Webster. “There were three things that the simulation demonstrated really well: one was the importance of planning, the second was the real challenges of responding to a disaster, and the third was how much capacity our Adventist churches have to respond to a disaster. We have much more ability to respond than most members assume, and we want to show them how they can serve their community in this way.

“This Disaster Ready Church program is so vitally important because it builds

capacity where it is most able to be quickly and effectively deployed—in the local community. It is also a great way for a church to build relationships with their community; first responders, government, other charities, etc. so that everyone can work together in the event of a disaster.”

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency supports a wide variety of initiatives worldwide.

Ashley Stanton lives in Sydney, where she works in ADRA's communication and marketing team. Signs of the Times is a proud partner of ADRA. To find your nearest ADRA project, visit <adra.org.au/get-help>.

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FA IT H

LOSING

Jemima

Losing a child is one of the most indescribably tragic things a parent can ever experience. This is a story about how God helped me navigate my grief and pain, and come out the other side.

BY EMMA DYER

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it was the mothers who had suffered this loss themselves who stood by me as I navigated the foreign landscape of grief. I’m so grateful to so many people for their care and comfort during that awful time. Wrestling with our deepest pain is hard. But the Bible doesn’t hide stories of suffering and neither should we.

my Jemima NATALIADERIABINA—GETTY IMAGES

O

ne in four pregnancies will end in loss during pregnancy or birth.1 The faces of miscarriage and stillbirth are all around us and I can guarantee it’s someone you know. Losing a baby is such a personal heartbreak. It can feel too painful or even embarrassing to share. When I experienced it myself,

Ever since reading the story of Job in the Bible as a teenager, I wanted to name my firstborn daughter Jemima.

After tragedy strikes, Job’s fortune is restored and we are told he had three daughters who were the most beautiful in all the land and received an inheritance alongside their

brothers. One of these daughters was called Jemima. I loved the idea that she was beautiful and treated as an equal to her brothers. As it turned out, I had to wait longer than my teenage dreams anticipated for my Jemima. A PCOS diagnosis in my 20s and marrying late in my 30s had me nervous that having a baby may JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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hairs. I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

I constantly sang Geoff Bullock’s “I Am Carried” song to her. As my due date neared, the thought of having to leave Jemima in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) without me was hard to prepare my heart for. At that time I came across a beautiful illustration of baby Moses in a basket. It encouraged me to think that if Moses’ mother Jochebed had trusted her precious baby to God’s care, I could too.

“

It didn’t take us long to conceive and when we did, I just knew it would be a girl—my Jemima.

hope against hope

We were told Jemima had an 80 per cent chance of survival. Her now-fortnightly scans were positive.

Her lung growth looked great. We decided not to tell anyone except family in order to enjoy the pregnancy without too much extra stress.

It wasn’t until a few days before she arrived that we let everyone know on social media and asked for prayer.

When my water broke, we drove to the hospital and met the midwife on duty (my regular midwife couldn’t be there as it was a high risk birth).

I was so glad to discover she was a Christian. Jemima arrived in the early hours of the morning.

As expected, I only had a quick cuddle before the team of doctors whisked her away to put in the tubes that would help her breathe.

I was left to rest and my husband went home to shower and sleep. We

NATALIA KUZINA—GETTY IMAGES

never happen for me. Amazingly, it didn’t take us long to conceive and when we did, I just knew it would be a girl—my Jemima.

Our 20-week scan confirmed my “girl-baby” hopes but the next day I was called into the hospital to meet with a doctor. My husband was away for work so I went in alone. Our baby had a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia, a random genetic defect where the diaphragm doesn’t form correctly. This can allow the stomach and liver up to where the heart and lungs are, essentially crushing their growth. Babies have a 50 per cent chance of survival depending on how big the holes are and how much the lungs can grow prior to birth. It’s a terrible waiting game. At birth the baby is immediately intubated and assisted with breathing until its lungs can be “fluffed up” enough to breath unassisted, before being sent to surgery to put everything back where it should be and close up the holes in the diaphragm. I left the hospital in shock, crying all the way back to where I’d parked my car a few blocks away. But as I turned the last corner, there in the sky above my car was a beautiful rainbow. It felt like God was trying to get my attention and remind me that He was with me.

From that day on, of course, we named our baby Jemima. We prayed over her all the healing verses in the Bible. Isaiah 46:4 was a favourite promise I prayed and clung to: “Even to your old age and gray

weren’t able to be with her while they worked on her. It wasn’t till later that evening we were told she was struggling and that we could come and see her.

As soon as she heard my voice her vitals improved. I stayed with her through the night. I sang “I Am Carried” to her, talked to her and prayed for her. She kept opening her eyes to look at me. Around 3am they thought she was improving so I went back to bed and my husband took over but by the morning she had deteriorated further. We were in complete shock when they told us there was nothing they could do to save her. Her lungs were not responding and the machines were keeping her alive. The NICU room had three other babies in it so they began to put up privacy screens around us because my baby was dying. Our pastor visited and prayed with us and half-an-hour later

another local pastor arrived just as we were being allowed to hold Jemima and her tubes were taken out. He stayed with us as she died in my arms, 23 hours old.

They performed an autopsy and discovered that what they had previously thought was good lung growth was actually the liver that had come up through the holes in Jemima’s diaphragm and almost completely crushed both lungs. As we waited for the results my husband’s parents arrived from out of town and a dear friend surprised me with a visit and prayed with us. While my husband popped out to get lunch with his parents, I was left to rest with the sounds of newborn babies crying in the rooms around me. I was given a box of SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support) resources and flicked through a book of stories from mothers who had lost pregnancies and babies. So many of them JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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afraid if I gave in to the tears I might never stop. I knew I needed to grieve but I wasn’t sure how to, without falling and remaining in despair. My midwife knew I was a Christian and happened to know a lovely Christian lady from SANDS who had also lost her daughter. She came to visit a week later and gave me her copy of Jerry Sittser’s book, A Grace Disguised. It was just the companion I needed to help me navigate grief as a believer. It helped me have the courage to grieve. In his book, he refers to the verse in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 which says, “We do not grieve as those who have no hope . . .”, but he adds “we do grieve!” I hadn’t realised how much courage it would take to grieve. I knew I would see Jemima again and that resurrection hope definitely comforted me. But I also needed to do the hard work of grief.

“

Our pastor visited and prayed with us . . . he stayed with us as she died in my arms, 23 hours old.

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through all the messiness. Over the next few days flowers and messages flooded in. Those that especially touched me were church members who shared they too had lost a baby and were ready to chat and support me in any way they could.

It was a blur of funeral preparations, family arriving from overseas and the funeral. Again, I was surprised and touched to have dear friends fly across the country to be with us.

no easy answers

an empty home

A few weeks later when everything had calmed down, my husband had returned to work and it was just my mum and I left at home, my midwife came for a checkup and asked me the best question: Had I had a big cry yet?

I admitted I was too scared. I was

SUPPLIED

were filled with despair. Perhaps it was too soon for me to be reading but I found it quite overwhelming. It also made me a little bit determined.

I didn’t want grief to destroy me.

Thankfully I was able to go home that afternoon and we were able to take Jemima with us. I know this is not the way it happened a generation ago and I am so glad times have changed. Having her with us for those few days before the funeral was so precious. I got to shower her in kisses, show her to my family and we even had professional photos taken.

I wasn’t sure I would want them but now I am so glad we did. Later that evening high school friends arrived from out of town and sat with us.

My milk came in and I didn’t know what to do to ease the discomfort.

But they loved and stayed with me

I learned how vital it is to sit with my emotions rather than avoid them or bottle them up. I began to embrace my tears and cry whenever I felt the grief welling up in me. I tried to notice and take to God the feelings of guilt, shame, regret and anger; the what-ifs, the whys, the what-nows? I struggled to be happy for friends and family who were having healthy babies that they got to take home and keep. It was God’s grace that saved me from those feelings of bitterness.

By taking every ugly emotion

to Him, God became my biggest comfort. Hardest of all though, was learning to trust Him again, to find the courage to pray again with what now felt like reckless faith asking that God would give me another baby. I also began to pray for friends who were struggling to conceive (by the way God answered a big YES to all those prayers).

Worship was also a challenge during this time but it was one of the things that most strengthened my faith. I’ve since learned that “Worship is the spiritual discipline that most helps with suffering” (Sittser).

I’d never really thought about it before but it’s what Jesus did when He was on the cross—He prayed the Psalms. It’s easy when life is going relatively well to praise God but so much more of a triumph to worship God in the midst of suffering.

Most weeks, I would cry through worship at church. During one such “weeping-instead-of-singing” session a lovely older lady in the pew beside me, who I didn’t know very well, saw my tears and reached over and held my hand and I’ve never forgotten that small but kind gesture as I struggled to sing. I’m so grateful in those moments, that I could stand there and be comforted and encouraged as others in my church family did sing those words of faith, truth and hope.

It’s coming up on seven years since we lost Jemima and it’s only recently I’ve realised how, during that awful time, at each heartbreaking turn, God was there! I’d been terrified of JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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“

By taking every ugly emotion to Him, God became my biggest comfort.

the darkness but what I found there was God. My story of loss was actually His story of grace, a story of how He was with me, reminding me of His love when I was least sure of it, comforting me, healing my broken heart, rescuing me from the depths of bitterness and despair, and giving me courage to not only grieve but to dare to hope again and trust Him for my future.

As my brand new mother’s heart had prayed and sung “I Am Carried” over my dying child, God’s heart had been singing over me: “My child, I will carry you! I will carry you! I will carry you!”

1. That’s one in four pregnancies, not one in four women experiencing baby loss. An important distinction to make.

To contact SANDS, visit <sands.org.au>.

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SUPPLIED

Emma Dyer (nee Weslake) from Upper Hutt, NZ, is currently enjoying being a stay-at-home mum to her five-year-old daughter and three-year-old son.

W

ELL B EING

TOP TIPS FOR GETTING ACTIVE AS A GROUP

Get

It isn’t all that hard to exercise with others. Following are three suggestions: GET WALKING Start a local weekly walking group with family and friends.

Pick a place to meet, tie on your shoes and get walking.

It’s as simple as that.

ACTIVE, SOCIAL, HEALTHY

START A CLUB Get together with a group of friends from work for a game of social sport. It might be an informal game at lunchtime or an organised competition after work. Either way, it’s a chance to get active and build friendships.

Exercise is always beneficial, but for optimal health, exercise with others.

BY SANITARIUM HEALTH FOOD COMPANY

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a 12 per cent boost in mental wellbeing, a 24 per cent increase in self-reported physical fitness and a 26 per cent rise in emotional stability compared to the non-exercising control group. They also saw a 26 per cent reduction in perceived stress levels. On the other hand, those who worked out individually saw an 11 per cent boost in mental wellbeing but no significant change in the other areas.

Group fitness represents a unique opportunity to tap into the significant health benefits of both physical activity and social connection.

GABIN-VALLET—UNSPLASH

E

ven modest increases in physical activity can lead to significant improvements in your health. But if you really want to maximise the benefits you get from exercise, there’s value in making a group effort.

Researchers from the University of New England involved medical students in a 12-week exercise program. The students were allowed to choose between completing the program individually or in a group setting. A third group had no exercise program.

At the end of the 12 weeks, those exercising as part of a group saw, on average,

GET DOWN TO YOUR LOCAL PARK Grab a ball and head down to the nearest park with your family. It seems simple, but chasing the kids around is a great way to get active while building connections with those you love.

Article courtesy of Sanitarium Health Food Company. Visit sanitarium.com. au or sanitarium.co.nz and subscribe to Recipe of the Week for weekly recipe inspiration in your email inbox.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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FUN

CROSSWORD

CROSSWORD CLUES

How closely have you been reading? Each keyword in this puzzle is also contained within this edition of Signs of the Times.

Happy digging!

DOWN 2 Will carry your loved one's ashes into space 3 Using this every day can save you $2000 per year in transport costs 5 The gambling capital of the world 6 The thing that helps us get stuff done 7 A self-reflection tool involving a window

SOPHIE TURNER—UNSPLASH

Hint: 8 Across

EDUCATION.COM

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ACROSS 1 Credited with creating the cuneiform script 4 A convocation of paper and ink 5 The development and aid arm of the Seventhday Adventist Church 8 The second-largest city in Missouri, USA 9 The Seventh-day Adventist Church operates more than 7000 of these worldwide 10 Your body's largest organ 11 One of Job's three daughters 12 A country where kissing is as common as a handshake

SUDOKU EASY

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HARD

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SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

• SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU

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