Signs of the Times - June 2024 by Adventist Media

a christian perspective on the world today

In this issue June 2024 WHAT IN THE WORLD 04 EATING LIKE EDEN 06 FUDGE IT OR BUDGET? 12 WHY ON EARTH WOULD I READ THE BIBLE? 20

BURMA TO BRISBANE: ESTHER MOO’S STORY One refugee’s courageous journey PAGE 32

HOPE MATTERS 26 UNEXPECTED GRATITUDE AT 40,000 FEET 38 ARE HUMANS BASICALLY GOOD? 40 THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF ENERGY DRINKS 46

ASK PASTOR JESSE 52 06

FINDING MEANING IN THE MULTIVERSE 54 THE PERFECT SMOOTHIE 60 SUDOKU AND CROSSWORD PUZZLE 62

54 FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA 2

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@SIGNSMAG

A Nation of Refugees In 1843, Friedrich Stackelroth married Caroline Brettig at a church in Hahndorf, South Australia. Caroline’s family had travelled with a group of German immigrants from Prussia to find freedom to worship in a manner they were convicted was right. They were some of the earliest European “refugees” to land on Australian shores seeking freedom. Discovering more about the early immigrants in my own family has given me an appreciation for my heritage and some of the challenges my forebears faced, as well as compassion for those facing displacement today. June 20 is World Refugee Day. According to the United Nations the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide reached more than 110 million in 2023. It can be hard for us to put ourselves in the shoes of those who have fled abuse, war, poverty and death. One thing we can do is listen to their experiences. In this issue you can read the story of Esther Moo, a refugee from Burma (Myanmar) (p32). But there’s more we can do. In the Bible, there are many reminders to treat minorities with respect. “The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God” (Leviticus 19:34). This command reflects on the Israelite experience of being slaves in Egypt. They were persecuted and oppressed and God here reminds them to “treat others as they’d like to be treated”. It is very easy to feel a great distance from the suffering of those who are displaced by war and natural disasters. But we must not allow our hearts to be hardened. Instead we should extend kindness, listen to understand and practise gratitude. JARROD STACKELROTH Editor

VOL 139 NO 5

ISSN 1038-9733 EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Brad Kemp EDITOR Jarrod Stackelroth ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jesse Herford ASSISTANT EDITOR Zanita Fletcher COPYEDITOR Tracey Bridcutt GRAPHIC DESIGN Theodora Pau’u Talia Valderrama 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, $A28/$NZ30; 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. COVER IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS COLLAGE

WHAT IN THE WORLD

Walking with Amal AUSTRALIA/SYRIA

Washed up war remains MARSHALL ISLANDS

While the Marshall Islands are a picture of tropical beauty in the Pacific Ocean, they are littered with unexploded munitions from World War II. Millions of dollars are being spent by the US and Pacific nations to identify, remove and destroy dormant bombs, which can still detonate if disturbed. Some estimate the number of bombs in the region, including in Fiji, Palau and Solomon Islands, could be in the hundreds of thousands.—The Guardian 4

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COTTONBRO STUDIOS, KEVIN MALIK, CATRINA SOUSA, JIM RITCHTER—PEXELS

Amal, whose name means hope in Arabic, is a 3.5-metre-high puppet who represents a 10-year-old Syrian refugee on a long journey. Controlled by a dozen people, she began her walk on the Syria-Turkey border in 2021 and has since traversed 15 countries and visited 90 cities, including Australia in 2024. She is a symbol of human rights for millions of refugees around the world and is highlighting the plight of displaced children fleeing war zones. Her walk is raising money for education, food, shelter, medical care and legal assistance for refugees and displaced children.—The Guardian

Legal personhood for whales NEW ZEALAND

Māori and Pacific leaders have signed a declaration seeking to give tohorā (southern right whales) legal personhood and inherent rights. Whales play a vital role in the health of marine ecosystems and their decline disrupts the balance that sustains all life in the Pacific Ocean. Māori leader Kiingi Tuheita said, “we must act with urgency to protect these magnificent creatures before it’s too late”.—Radio New Zealand

Solar panels in your eyeballs AUSTRALIA

Engineers at the University of New South Wales are examining ways tiny solar panels can be implanted in the human retina to restore sight for those with degenerative eye diseases. The panels would be self-powered and portable, doing away with the need for wires into the eyes. The research is still in the proof-ofconcept stage and has a long journey before it will be implantable.—UNSW

Farmer feeds hungry teens JAPAN

Sharing space with Tokyo’s chic cafes is a tiny fruit and vegetable stall with produce costing close to nothing compared to what else is available. A handwritten note from the owner under the honesty-payment box says, “I came here from Hiroshima with nothing. I lived on watermelon for a month . . . Thirty years on, I grow plenty of vegetables. Tomochan is on your side, so don’t worry about the future.” She says she runs the stall because she “hate[s] the idea of young people walking around hungry”.—CBS News JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

Eating Like Eden How science increasingly supports a vegan diet. SISI TORO

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GUSTAVO FRING— PEXELS

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hen I first decided to cut out meat from my diet 15 years ago, it wasn’t simply a matter of choosing beans over beef or finding the right tofu scramble recipe. Back then, embracing a plant-based lifestyle was a radical act, a personal revolution against the status quo of food culture. My decision was driven by a growing understanding that the choices I made at the dinner table rippled outwards, affecting animals, the environment and my own health in profound ways. I acknowledged the suffering of animals in industrial farming, recognised the toll that livestock farming takes on our planet’s ecosystems and welcomed the physical benefits of nourishing my body with whole, plant-derived foods The deeper I delved into the world of plant-based eating, the more I discovered its benefits and the more attuned I became to its ethical and environmental implications. But my commitment found its deepest roots in a spiritual connection. I was drawn to the concept of returning to the purity of humanity’s origins—the Garden of Eden (see Genesis 2-3)— where a diet devoid of animal products was not only the norm but was the initial intention for humanity. It seemed to me that this ancient diet, rich in fruits, grains, nuts and legumes, was designed to sustain not just our bodies, but our souls as well.

getting technical

Fast forward to the end of 2023, I

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stumbled upon a Stanford University study1 that confirmed my decisions. As someone who geeks out on analysing studies, I was thrilled about the quality of the research done and its focus on veganism. The study enrolled 22 pairs of adult twins. In each pair, one twin was randomly assigned to follow a vegan diet, while the other continued with an omnivorous diet. Remarkably, 78.6 per cent of these twins lived together during the trial, minimising environmental variation. This eight-week trial was divided into two phases. In the first four weeks, participants received three free meals daily, complemented by additional food or snacks as needed to meet their caloric requirements. They also participated in educational sessions focused on selecting healthy foods. For the remaining four weeks, participants took control of their diets, applying the knowledge from the educational sessions to their meal planning. Researchers assessed their nutritional intake at several points throughout the study, offering a comprehensive look at the dietary impacts. During the self-managed phase, notable differences emerged between the diets of the vegan and omnivorous participants. On average, vegans consumed 174 fewer calories, 10 grams more fibre, 309 milligrams less cholesterol and 9 grams less saturated fat in their diets. They also had higher iron intake but significantly lower vitamin B12 and

you have the power to change

This study felt like validation, a scientific nod to the significance of my dietary choices, affirming that eating habits have profound effects that go beyond genetics. This study is also a testament to the power of diet over genetic predispositions. By meticulously controlling for genetic

and environmental factors, the research provides compelling evidence of the cardiovascular benefits of a vegan diet. The implications are profound, especially in a Western society grappling with rising rates of heart disease and obesity. It challenges the notion that genetics are destiny, offering a blueprint for mitigating risk through dietary choices. The dietary differences observed in this study shed light on key JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

FERNANDO ANDRADE—UNSPLASH

protein levels. The study noted the importance of B12 supplements for those on a vegan diet long-term and suggested the potential need for increased protein intake, given that the vegan participants’ intake hovered around the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). The results of this innovative study were striking. The vegans had LDL-cholesterol levels that were 13.9 mg/dL (0.36 mmol/L) lower than their omnivorous twins. This reduction translated to a roughly 20 per cent decreased risk of cardiovascular disease if maintained throughout a lifetime. The vegan participants also exhibited lower fasting insulin levels and experienced a weight loss of 1.9 kg compared to their siblings on the omnivorous diet. Across all measured biomarkers, the vegans did not fare worse than the omnivores, suggesting that a healthy vegan diet can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk factors, even when genetics are meticulously controlled.

nutritional considerations for anyone considering a vegan lifestyle. The critical takeaways were the importance of fibre (which plays a critical role in heart health) and the attention to nutrients that may be lower in a vegan diet (such as vitamin B12 and protein). These findings underscore the necessity of thoughtful dietary planning to ensure nutritional balance and health benefits. As the conversation around plantbased diets and health continues, this study adds a critical piece to the puzzle. Not only does it confirm the health benefits of a vegan diet, but it also highlights the importance of dietary education and planning. For individuals considering a transition to a vegan lifestyle, this research offers both motivation and a cautionary note about the need to address potential nutritional gaps.

It seemed to me that this ancient diet, rich in fruits, grains, nuts and legumes, was designed to sustain not just our bodies, but our souls too 10

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more than just a trend

The study’s findings are particularly relevant in today’s health-conscious society, where diet plays a pivotal role in preventive health care. As more people look to dietary changes to improve their health outcomes, the insights from this trial provide a valuable guide. The emphasis on a well-planned vegan diet, rich in nutrients and balanced in calories, offers a roadmap for those seeking to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and other health issues. Intriguingly, Netflix has since launched a docu-series titled You Are What You Eat, spotlighting this very study. While I’ve yet to view it, lacking a Netflix subscription, its existence signifies the study’s impact and the growing public interest in the nexus between diet and health. It’s a testament to the power of diet

guardianship, honouring the sanctity of all life. After all, it was in Genesis 1:29 where God said He had given humanity every fruit and herb that yields seed to eat, hinting that this is the way we were meant to eat all along. If you’re not already practising a plant-based lifestyle, I hope that you will consider these studies and move closer towards a lifestyle that is in line with Eden’s original diet. As we each individually navigate these decisions, may we do so with mindfulness and compassion, guided by ancient wisdom that both our bodies and the earth are sacred, gifted to us by God to both cherish and protect. Sisi Toro is a Hawaiian-based health educator and speaker who promotes a plant-based life. She enjoys creating recipes, hiking mountains and going to the beach. 1. <pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38032644/>

VAASEENAA—GETTY IMAGES

to shape personal health outcomes and a broader societal understanding. The Stanford twin study scientifically substantiates the health advantages of a vegan diet, yet for me, it embodies more. It affirms a chosen path, not solely for physical wellbeing but for spiritual fulfilment and divine connectivity. It strengthens the notion that our dietary selections can mirror our innermost values, marrying physical health with spiritual wellness. As we each tread our paths— whether drawn to veganism for health, ethical, environmental or spiritual motives—it’s vital to remember that our choices wield the power to not only shape our existence but also the world at large. By adopting a plant-based lifestyle, we align with a divine ethos of compassion and

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Fudge it or Budget? Making a budget can often be a scary proposition. But, with just a few simple steps, you too can make a plan for success in your financial future. DR KEN LONG

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IGOR OMILAEV—UNSPLASH

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ost people see the word “budget” as synonymous with going without and living a boring life. But that’s a misunderstanding. Budgeting doesn’t take the whipped cream out of life. It simply means having the whipped cream you can afford. A budget is not a spending restriction—it’s a plan for managing your family income. Don and Joanne’s friends considered them to be a successful couple. Don, a 35-year-old IT executive, received an annual salary of $140,000. Joanne worked as a nurse and their combined annual income exceeded $220,000. While they didn’t exactly “live it up”, they didn’t hesitate to pamper themselves either. They didn’t live extravagantly but they did indulge in regular dining out, clothing, holidays and other luxuries. Financial problems? Unthinkable! However, reality struck and their financial situation worsened, causing stress and sleepless nights. Don and Joanne were typical fiscal fudgers, unaware of their monthly expenses and unfortunately, not claiming full financial control. Their money flowed in and out, mirroring the tide, sometimes even faster. Don and Joanne found budgeting to be the key to solving their financial problems. The only way they could maintain their standard of living was to understand, then alter their spending habits and control their spending. In biblical terms, Don and Joanne needed to be effective financial stewards of the resources

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A budget is a plan for managing your family income

that God had given them. A budget isn’t a financial straitjacket; it’s a lifebelt, aiding in tracking income and expenses over time. When planning your fiscal future, don’t expect everything to fall into place immediately. Budgeting, like any other art, improves with experience. It’s about regulating income to meet known and anticipated expenses. Adhering to a family financial plan, a budget, instils discipline, controls spending, prevents waste and imparts financial order to family members, serving as a foundation for your children’s financial education. Make realistic budget estimates to avoid discouragement. If the budget seems unbearable, adjust it promptly. Remember, a budget is an attempt to live within your means, not below your yearnings. Be cautious of advertising propaganda; say “no” and stick to your priorities.

step 1: identify your income

Now that you’ve decided to stop your fiscal fudging, start by identifying your income for the upcoming year. Collect all possible personal financial details, especially if you’ve been lax in tracking them—a common trait for fiscal fudgers. This might require some effort to reconstruct your financial history. Income sources are typically straightforward, including wages, salaries, interest, dividends, business earnings and commissions. When recording income, categorise each source separately. Avoid lumping everything together. For wage and salary earners, consider net income— your gross salary or wage minus any tax payable. Keep in mind that tax is calculated after deductions,

so maintaining records is crucial to maximise your net income. If your income is irregular, assess your earnings from the past few months as a basis for budgeting. It’s wise to be conservative in your estimates. You can always make adjustments during your budget review.

step 2: track your spending

After figuring out your incoming money, the next step is understanding where it goes. Categorising expenses helps identify where you spend the most and where you can save. Common categories include food, education, utilities (council and water rates, electricity), insurance and housing (rent or loan repayments). Don and Joanne prioritised honouring God with their income—tithing as an act of obedience and then a generous offering. Tithing is the JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

KAROLINA GRABOWSKA—PEXELS

Here are five simple steps to create your family budget:

practice of dedicating 10 per cent of your income to God. Offerings may be contributed to good causes that you have a passion for. Their next step involved identifying expense categories, including housing, transportation, food, utilities, insurance, education, medical and healthcare, saving/investing and debt payments. Under each category, they listed relevant expenses. For utilities, it included electricity, water and natural gas. In the food category, they considered groceries as a fundamental expense, along with dining out, covering restaurant meals, work lunches and food deliveries. Expenses can be fixed or variable. Fixed expenses stay constant monthly or quarterly like rent and loan payments. Other fixed costs encompass insurance (house, car, life, health) and school fees. Variable expenses change and depend on daily choices. Groceries, petrol, clothing and entertainment fall under this category. For example, choosing a premium brand of cereal at the supermarket instead of a generic brand affects expenses. Variable costs may also involve discretionary spending, like buying electronics or furniture. Here are some key points about your expenses to keep in mind: • Variable expenses offer the best opportunity to cut back since they involve day-to-day choices. • Estimate your expenses for the upcoming year based on 16

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•

past experience, adjusting for factors like inflation or changes in spending due to events like a second child attending school. Add a little extra to cover potential increases and round up your estimates. For example, if your motor vehicle expenses were $252.45, round up to $260 for simplicity. Keep an eye on your credit card debt; surprisingly, only one-in-five cardholders (22 per cent) know their debt and five per cent couldn’t say how much they owe. Be mindful of discretionary spending. Small, frequent expenses like takeaway coffee or meals can add up quickly. Monitoring and controlling these impulse purchases can lead to significant savings.

step 3: set your budget goals and develop your budget

Creating a family budget helps you understand and manage your finances better. Before starting your budget, set financial goals to stay motivated. Don and Joanne listed short-and long-term goals. For first-time budgeters, short-term aims focused on the first year. If you’re more experienced, your short-term goals might span three years. Longer-term goals like buying a house or saving for retirement take time. Your goals can be flexible but identifying them

can help motivate you to stick to your budget. For instance, cutting spending is easier when you know you’re saving for a holiday. When setting goals, make them SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time Specific. This framework gives direction and focus to what’s important. An example of a SMART Goal is to save $30,000 by June 30, 2025, towards your first house deposit.

Once Don and Joanne gathered their financial information, they began to create their family budget. Plan for a year or break it down monthly to better track income and control spending. Ensure your expenses don’t exceed your income for a balanced budget. If income surpasses expenses, it’s a surplus budget. Sit down with your family to work on the budget and future financial plans. Utilise tools like Excel or budget apps for easy adjustments and updates. Don and Joanne began their budget with a simple 15/60/15/10 breakdown, aligning with their needs, wants and goals. Here’s a quick overview: • 15 per cent for tithe and offerings • 60 per cent for housing, bills, groceries and everyday needs • 15 per cent for non-essentials like gifts, holidays and entertainment JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

KAROLINA GRABOWSKA—PEXELS

step 4: develop your budget

•

10 per cent for savings and reducing debt When creating your budget, consider using the 15/60/15/10 formula or adjust it to fit your needs. This formula is a starting point to guide your budgeting process. Analyse your expenses by percentage and modify the percentages to align with your targets. It’s wise to allocate a contingency expense to cover unexpected variations or unforeseen costs. Remember, your first budget may not be perfect. Discuss it within your family and a trusted friend and seek guidance through prayer. Providing more details gives a better understanding of your spending. For example, if you’re buying a home, housing expenses include loan repayments, council and water rates, insurance and repairs. Transportation expenses include car payments, fuel, registration and insurance, and service and repairs. If you choose to prioritise tithing and offerings, be encouraged by Jesus’ words: “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33,

NLT). Put God first and He promises to provide for your essentials—food, shelter and clothing.

step 5: review and adjust

The purpose of budgeting is to compare your actual spending with your planned income and expenses. After completing your budget, be flexible as things may change. A budget is a guide, not set in stone. Stay disciplined. Some start with good intentions but slip back into old habits. Remember, your budget is your financial lifebelt. Re-evaluate monthly, adjusting for actual expenses and income. Don’t be discouraged at the start. Slowly adapt your lifestyle. Practise self-control. Budgeting builds financial awareness, unlike unaware spending habits. As you get used to it, budgeting becomes automatic.

A budget isn’t a financial straightjacket; it’s a lifebelt, aiding in tracking income and expenses over time

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Dr Ken Long is a business consultant and Christian writer. He has authored The Giving Equation, The Model Steward Canvas and The Model Steward Canvas Workbook.

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WHY ON EARTH WOULD I READ THE BIBLE? Should secular people care about the Bible or is it just a text for the religious? ADRIELLE CARRASCO 20

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MAKSIM GONCHARENOK—PEXELS

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MIDJOURNEY

hen I was a young woman, I would have recommended reading the Bible only to those wanting something to help them fall asleep. In other words, I didn’t find it the most riveting read—especially the King James Version, the only edition I had on hand, replete with “thees”, “thous” and “thys”. I did not read it much when I was young, but being “boring” or “old-fashioned” are only a few reasons some people don’t read the Bible. It is considered by many to be “outdated”, “patriarchal”, “misogynistic”, “homophobic”, “socially offensive” and “exploitive”, to name a few accusations. The Bible is usually described by secularists in negative terms, critical about its claims of having been “inspired by God”, with its most charitable descriptors being “just an interesting collection of ancient texts”. These days, I enjoy reading the Bible far more than when I was young, even though there are still portions of it that confuse me. The Bible is indeed a wide, varied collection of ancient texts, written over a span of approximately a thousand years by around 40 authors representing as diverse backgrounds as the cultures they were born into. The

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Bible contains manifold examples of parables, songs, poetry, prophecy, letters and historical prose. And yet, it is far more than a simple library of assembled ancient scrolls. Today, it is a sacred text for around 2.4 billion Christians worldwide, as well as the best-selling book of all time. That said, there are many who, while owning a Bible, do not read it regularly and fewer still who study it in depth. This is where critics of Christianity find the most fodder. Those who follow the Bible’s teachings blindly while not studying it in-depth tend to defend it without acknowledging the nuances that exist in its pages. They are seen as gullible or uneducated and, in some instances, enablers of the various ways it has been used for harm over the centuries. So, why on earth would anyone who is not a Christian bother reading the Bible? Even if you’re not a person of faith, there’s one simple answer. If nothing else, the Bible is what many scholars consider to be the foundational text upon which the Western world was built. It has had a profound impact on literature, laws, philosophy and culture. Biblical texts and passages have been quoted, and misquoted throughout history, upheld to spur people into action, provided to give people hope, and sadly also used to justify oppression and hatred. In as much as it has been abused by people with ill intent, it has also been used as a beacon of hope. For many, the biblical text is

a great source of inspiration and spiritual guidance. For Christians, it is the establishing document upon which their faith is based. Understanding the Bible will give a greater understanding of how our society was formed and of the nearly twoand-a-half billion Christians who look to it for life and direction.

how do I read the Bible?

Upon opening it at page one and casually reading it, many people find themselves confused. Instead, I would suggest starting with one of the biographies of the life of Jesus, such as the books of John or Mark. Consider reading it as one might read ancient history and ponder these things: (1) who was the author writing to, (2) in what context and culture were they living and (3) what was the meaning behind what they were writing? Then, reflect on the “big picture”. What is the overall theme for that particular passage? How does it fit with the preceding portions and how does it contribute to the story moving forward? If reading from John or Mark, what was the author telling us about the life of Jesus? Or, if you are reading parts of Genesis, remember that ancient cosmologies had little room for our modern ideas regarding our planet, the sun and moon, or the stars. All these things were understood in terms of the world around them and their cosmos functioned as an extension of God. When reading the Psalms, consider the context in JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

The Bible is what many scholars consider to be the foundational text upon which the Western world was built which it was written and what the author is trying to say about life and ultimate reality. Also, consider that there was no separation between the actual reality of God and what ancient cultures saw, experienced or felt. Their entire lives and the acts of nations and kings were seen as a result of God’s will. Therefore, we can read the Bible understanding that this ancient text was written in terms that the people of the time understood. It was also a time without the technology, knowledge, equal opportunity or “political correctness” of the Western 21st-century. We cannot read the Bible expecting to understand it using our modern-day sensibilities. This is especially true when we read biblical texts that deal with social situations. The “individual” was never as important as the “collective” community. Priority was based on what was good for the community or ethnic group a person belonged to. Then when we read the difficult 24

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passages, those that deal with rape, incest, intolerance, massacres or murder, don’t shy away from them. Acknowledge them and contemplate the reasons why they were left in the Bible and passed down from generation to generation. Then, resolve to not allow them to happen again in our time. Reflect on how we must do things differently with the knowledge God has given us now—and become the agents of change that the community of today needs. The Bible is an incredibly complex library of documents, as it has been copied, recopied and translated multiple times over the past several thousand years. This, as well as the cultural and linguistic gulf that stands between the cultures that produced it and us, allow many of us to miss the small nuances that could give greater understanding to certain passages. However, the overarching themes contained within the Bible cannot be underestimated. Though it was penned by imperfect people, the Bible reveals a perfect God whose love is big enough that He gave His only Son so that you and I can live life to the full—not just now, but into eternity. I find myself on the side of scholars who see it is an ancient text that communicates that big-picture love—the kind of love that can transform your life today. Adrielle Carrasco is the health ministries leader and liaison for women’s ministry for the Seventh-day Adventist Church New Zealand Pacific. She lives in Auckland, New Zealand.

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Hope Matters People can’t live on bread alone. They also need hope. Bruce Manners

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et your hope loose!” That’s the message from David Hamilton, author of How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body. He adds that we should hope for great things because, “Hope is healthy on many levels: mentally, emotionally and physically.” On the physical aspect, he refers to a study conducted by Harvard University on 13,000 older adults that found “hope was associated with better physical health, reduced risk of all-cause mortality, fewer number of chronic conditions, lower risk of cancer and even better sleep quality”. Going further, “It was also associated with better psychological wellbeing, including increased positive emotion, life satisfaction, greater social wellbeing and a greater sense of purpose. And it was associated with less stress.” These are helpful at any age. Significantly, your hope can be “contagious” and transferable to others. “When someone loses hope, your hope can be infectious.” Or at least it may help someone struggling through difficult times to feel a little hope for themselves. It may “also take away some of the loneliness that comes from feeling hopeless”. Hope matters. Hamilton encourages us to not be afraid to hope; to hope for great things; and to set our hope loose.1

In her research, Carol Graham—an academic and author of The Power of Hope—warns that, in the United States, there is a “crisis of despair”. She defines individuals in despair “as JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

AHMED HASAN—UNSPLASH

hope matters to life outcomes

having no hope and being ambivalent about life versus death”. An additional problem is that they’re also “prone to believe fake news and related conspiracy theories and radicalisation”. She gives a big-picture call for communities to play a role in “reducing despair and restoring hope” by identifying those who are vulnerable and helping them find hope. Her warning is this: “Given the damage that despair has already caused, including the lives of almost one million Americans in 2021 alone, its spread to the next generation is a daunting thought.”2 She writes of “deaths of despair” (the term is used for suicide) which is a major problem in the United States and has caused a fall in the life expectancy within the country. We who live outside the United States may want to shrug this off as something that doesn’t impact elsewhere. While the deaths of despair are not as serious an issue in Australia as in the United States, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in its General Record of Incidence of Mortality (appropriately known as GRIM) dataset has shown a “worrying rise in recent years”.3 Though suicide rates in countries like New Zealand have dropped in recent years, it’s still a significant social problem. Men are still twice as likely to commit suicide as women, with Maori men aged 15–44 and Pasifika men aged 15–24 being the most at risk, respectively.4 28

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a hope and despair continuum

Mandy Scotney conducted her hope research with individuals who were attempting to work on and resolve what is considered by many as one of earth’s most pressing problems—climate change. The issue they faced was simple: “It can feel like there is very little ability to put strategies into action to create the desired change when there are so many other forces at play.”5 Scotney concluded from her study that hope is like the tide, “It ebbs and flows—it isn’t constant, and we shouldn’t expect it to be.” Her research showed that a sense of acceptance that some days we are full of hope, and other days “not so much”, builds resilience and the capacity to keep moving forward. She adds, “Don’t be surprised that you’ll have days where hope feels elusive. Accept that we all have days like that and know that it’s not permanent—hope will flow again one day.” What surprises is her comment that, “You can find hope in despair.” In her study of individuals tackling climate change she found “constant movement between hope and despair . . . and a conscious balancing of the two ends of this continuum is important in a helpful and healing approach to hope”. And while she found these individuals “invested considerable energy into avoiding despair” . . . “despair powered their actions”. Scotney concluded, “Despair is not something to be avoided, but rather something

to be managed. Participants do not shy away from acknowledging the facts or allowing themselves to face the potential for despair that their work involves. Instead, they use it as a springboard for action. Despair then becomes an ally of hope.” Her report suggests that, “A sense of acceptance of how things are, having a vision of a better world and focusing attention on those areas we can facilitate that change, are the cornerstones of a hope that can be a driving force of self-care and wellbeing.”

Hope is strengthened exponentially when you hit a setback and you persist despite it

Positive psychologist Charles Snyder is often cited when you research hope. He died in 2006, but his influence continues. He concluded that “hopeful thinkers achieve more and are physically and psychologically healthier than less hopeful people”. He popularised an approach to hope that has become known as Snyder’s Hope Theory. He argued that there are three main attitudes/ approaches that make up hopeful thinking—what he called: goals; pathways; and agency. These individuals: 1. Approach life in a goal-oriented way. 2. Find different ways to achieve their goals. 3. Believe they can instigate change and achieve these goals. The reality is that stuff happens to all of us and “whatever talent or JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

AZIZ ACHARKI—UNSPLASH

hopeful thinking

skill you may possess, hope is the state of mind that helps you navigate life’s twists and turns, and keeps you moving forward when times are tough. What’s more . . . hope isn’t simply a happy feeling—it’s a human survival mechanism, and we couldn’t thrive without it.”6 When writer Polly Campbell was beginning to establish herself as a writer, she found this kind of approach incredibly helpful and advises: “Appreciate the setbacks and move through them. Hope is strengthened exponentially when you hit a setback and you persist despite it. “Next time you run up against one, pay attention to what it offers you—a growth opportunity, a chance to learn something you need to know to accomplish your goals—then move through that challenge. We all know tough times are going to come. Maybe you are in one now.

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“Hope reminds us that we can continue and, despite challenges, pursue greater possibilities. That’s a powerful feeling. One that keeps us moving instead of staying stuck in the despair. It worked for me early on in my career . . . I’m still self-employed, still writing. Still hoping.”7 Research has found a link between humour and hopefulness with the findings supporting “the positive influence of humour on state hopefulness”. In a relatively simple approach, those involved were asked to fill out a Hope Scale before and after watching a video. Half of the participants watched a humorous

Everything is gonna be alright

video, the rest watched a “neutral” video—one without humour. The “results indicated that there was a statistically significant increase in state hopefulness after exposure to a humorous video relative to a control group viewing a neutral video [without humour] . . . . The findings support the positive influence of humour on (the) state hopefulness.” They also tell us that it has been “empirically demonstrated that humour can positively affect psychological and physical wellbeing, and that sense of humour is a major component of high-hope individuals”.8

Not the stalwart, boring gates of Common Sense; Nor the strident gates of Self-Righteousness, Which creak on shrill and angry hinges (People cannot hear us there, they cannot pass through); Nor the cheerful flimsy garden gate of “Everything is gonna’ be all right.” But a different sometimes lonely place, The place of truth-telling.10 Now’s the time to set your hope loose!

hope and mission

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

Researcher Brene Brown tells us, “Hope is not an emotion; it’s a way of thinking or a cognitive process. Emotions play a supporting role, but hope is really a thought process. . . . In very simple terms, hope happens when we have the ability to set realistic goals (I know where I want to go). We’re able to figure out how to achieve those goals, including the ability to stay flexible and develop alternative routes (I know how to get there, I’m persistent, and I can tolerate disappointment and try again). We believe in ourselves (I can do this!).”9 You can do this! In her best poetic voice, Victoria Safford calls us to our mission: Our mission is to plant ourselves at the gates of Hope— Not the prudent gates of Optimism, Which are somewhat narrower.

1. <drdavidhamilton.com/why-hope-matters/> 2. >psychologytoday.com/au/blog/why-hope-matters/202305/why-hope-matters-to-life-outcomes> 3. <grattan.edu.au/news/deaths-of-despair-inaustralia/> 4. <mentalhealth.org.nz/suicide-prevention/statistics-on-suicide-in-new-zealand/> 5. All quotations in this section from <being.org.au/ the-importance-of-hope-in-mental-health/> 6. <mindtools.com/aov3izj/snyders-hope-theory> 7. <psychologytoday.com/au/blog/imperfect-spirituality/201902/why-hope-matters/> 8. Alexander P Vilaythong, Randolph C Arnau, David H Rosen and Nathan Mascaro, “Humour and hope: Can humour increase hope?” <degruyter.com/ document/doi/10.1515/humr.2003.006/html/> 9. <goodreads.com/quotes/9256195-hope-is-notan-emotion-it-s-a-way-of-thinking/> 10. Adapted from Victoria Safford, <pausemeditation. org/single-post/the-gates-of-hope-loving-kindness-meditation/>

JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

Burma to Brisbane: Esther Moo’s Story One girl’s story of growing up in a refugee camp.

ZANITA FLETCHER

et me paint you a picture of Esther Moo’s life, one of approximately 1959 Karen refugees who migrated to Australia between 2009 and 2010.¹ I first met Esther at a school in

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South–East Queensland that we had both recently started attending. I don’t remember our first encounter, however, no doubt I thought, “Wow, she has really long hair”, as left out it reached past the back of her knees.

growing up

Esther is from the Karen people, one of the ethnic minorities of Burma (also known as Myanmar), where she was born. For more than 60 years, the Karen people have lived under what is one of the most dangerous

and brutal regimes in the country’s history. At seven months old, Esther’s parents left her and her two older siblings with their grandparents. Due to the war in Burma, they were forced to work as nurses in the army, away from their children. Esther and her siblings lived with their grandparents for the next 10 years until one day a soldier showed up at their door and took them to a couple, believed to be their parents. JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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I remember cultivating a deep level of amazement and respect for her later in the year when I attended a volunteer trip with some students in my grade to the place she’d called home for the previous eight years: Mae La Oon Refugee Camp.

Esther remembers the soldier with a large gun by his side asking, “Is this your father?” Truthfully, she had no idea. She couldn’t remember what her parents looked like. “Since I didn’t grow up with them, I used to think they didn’t love me. So, I also thought, could I really be their child?”

searching for safety

Over the next month, the family (now eight in number) journeyed through the jungle seeking refuge. They had to climb up a lot of steep terrain, cross rivers, sleep in the rain and find food to eat, like vegetables, weeds and fish. “It was a frightening time,” Esther recalls. “The war was still happening so we would see dead bodies on the way. I was scared so sometimes my parents would carry me. But it was hard for them with lots of children.” Eventually they reached Mae La Oon Refugee Camp, one of nine camps on the Thai-Burma border that houses approximately 15,000 people. It is a four-hour drive (in dry conditions) from the nearest town. In rainy seasons it is only accessible by boat. Most people fled to the camps in the mid-1990s after Burmese soldiers bombarded their villages. They raped, tortured, killed and abducted innocent civilians. They set fire to homes, schools and religious buildings. Fortunately, due to living with their grandparents, Esther and her siblings were protected from witnessing such horrors. 34

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life in the hills

Esther’s family settled high in the hills with other Christians and were later reunited with their grandparents, who in their late nineties, still reside there today. Mae La Oon is certainly not a horrible place—at least for a shortterm visitor like myself. In fact, there was something quite special and ironically peaceful about it. Lines of huts, all built from bamboo and leaves, traversed up the mountains to the sky, children entertained themselves with toys made from recycled materials and everywhere you went you found people doing life together. But if you ask them what they think of it, they’ll tell you it’s like being in prison. The people are hemmed in by barbed wire and armed military, and due to previous attacks, they’re not allowed to leave. The space limitations mean life is overcrowded with entire families crammed into small huts. Water is not very clean, causing many people to get sick. And life is pretty well the same, day after day. For many children, this is where they were born and where they grow up. Though nobody expected to be there so long, they hold onto hope. During my time there I would wake up at dark each morning to many people gathered in one hut singing worship songs at the top of their lungs. When the sun rose, they would read from the Bible and share spiritual encouragement. “Even though they had to flee

their homes and had lost loved ones, they praised God to be alive and no longer facing difficulties,” Esther said. “Some people still struggle to believe that and are filled with anger for the Burmese people. They won’t even speak the same language anymore. We’d pray for them, uplift them and we’d pray for those running away, looking for safety or in the jungle.” Esther remembers feeling relieved when they arrived at the camp and were given shelter, food and medical aid by non-government organisations (NGOs). They were even fortunate to get a few chickens and have space for a small vegetable patch behind their hut. But for many, especially now since the population has increased, this is not the case. Rations have been reduced, fewer nurses and doctors are available, children are going to school less, and there is an increasing amount of depression and violence.

a new place to call home

When Australia permitted refugees in the camp to apply for migration, Esther’s family did. The previous year, another group from my school visited her camp and Esther found herself talking with the principal who organised the trip. He said to her, “If you ever come to Australia make sure you visit us.” In 2009, Esther’s family was approved for migration and they boarded their first flight to Australia.

They settled into a small house close to Brisbane city. The day they arrived, Esther called the principal and screamed, “We’re here!” She said, “At first, he didn’t believe me, but then I gave him our address and he and his wife came over the next day. They showed us how to use things like a washing machine, a dishwasher, a rice cooker” . . . Esther stopped and laughed before she JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

went on, “Lucky they came because when I first saw the iron board, I thought it was a surf board like I had seen in a movie on the plane.” As they talked over a meal, the couple asked Esther what she wanted to do in the future. Esther replied, “I want to be a nurse.” To do so, she would need to be

a graduate in Australia. The principal and his wife generously offered her a scholarship and she started year 11 at the age of 18. “My friends in the camp laughed at me when they heard I was going back to school because I had been a teacher in the camp,” she said. “But my grandma used to pray for me and my future. She’d tell me I would be a blessing to my family. That helped me to study hard and get good marks.” Esther was grateful for the opportunity to go to school, knowing there were thousands of aspiring students in the camps unable to complete further education. While there were makeshift jungle schools in Mae La Oon and the value of education was upheld, classes were overcrowded, resources were sparse, and there weren’t many options for students to develop past a certain point. She found school in Australia very hard. Not only was she having to learn how to speak, read and write in English, she also had to complete assessments and exams at the same rate as other students . . . tasks much of my cohort seemed to complain about regularly, even without such complications.

the challenges with integrating Many things make it difficult for refugees to integrate into a new country, many of which Esther’s family experienced: adjusting to a different culture, the lack of

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support and feeling isolated. With the language barrier and communication differences, it can also be challenging for them to express how they feel and what they need. “Karen people are already very shy people,” Esther said. Against all odds, she completed her senior high school years, got her diploma in nursing at university and started working at an aged care facility. Soon after, she met her husband, a pastor, and moved to Victoria to be with him. There she was introduced to a doctor who worked at Utopia Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health, a company that provides basic health services at no or low cost regardless of an individual’s Medicare status. This excited Esther as it meant she would be able to help her people.

how we can help

While some dream of returning to Burma when things settle, Esther says, “Australia is home now. The place where I used to live is destroyed.” On a per capita basis, Australia has been one of the most generous countries in resettling refugees.² Yet when I reflect on my own life—the abundance of food I’ve had access to, the education opportunities I’ve received, the safety of being raised in a war-less country, the stability of my parents’ finances growing up, and much more—I can’t help but feel sorry for the lack of compassion and intentionality I’ve shown to those who have moved to Australia.

When I asked Esther what people could do to help refugees adjust to their new country, she said, “Try to get to know our story and see if there is any way you can help.” I’m inspired by Esther’s strength and positivity which reminds me that even when things don’t go as planned, to dream and smile (as she does so frequently) because there is something bigger to live for. “I believe everything that has happened to me has had a purpose. God has had a plan for me and without His help I might not be in Australia today. I now have a husband and two beautiful girls and another coming. I have my own company. I am safe. But without God’s help, I don’t think I would be where I am today.” Each year on June 20, the world honours the courage of those who have been forced to flee their homes to escape conflict or persecution. This year, see if there are any refugees in your area and ask yourself, “What can I do on an individual level to make them feel welcome?” Zanita Fletcher is a life coach and assistant editor for the Australia/New Zealand edition of Signs of the Times. She writes from the Gold Coast, Queensland. 1. <immi.gov.au/media/fact-sheets/60refugee.htm> 2. <homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/files/ review-integration-employment-settlement-outcomes-refugees-humanitarian-entrants.pdf>

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make a difference

Unexpected Gratitude at 40,000 Feet In August 2020, Jean accepted the role of chief financial officer for the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Australia. And in 2022 he attended the ADRA Network Finance Summit in Prague. On his flight home, while putting his belongings into the overhead locker, one of the flight attendants behind him started crying unconsolably. “I had my ADRA shirt on and she saw the logo and she just hysterically backed up, crying,” Jean says. In a time where passengers sometimes mistreat or abuse cabin crew, the other attendants rushed over, thinking that Jean had done something to upset her. “They all came running to me thinking that I said something or did something to try and hurt her, because she was almost uncontrollable,” Jean says. “But what she was saying the whole time was, ‘Thank you so much for what you have done for my family. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.’” Jean glanced at her nametag and realised the flight attendant, Oksana, had a Ukrainian flag next to her name, indicating her country of origin. “The other flight attendants realised 38

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that she needed to take a moment,” says Jean. So Oksana sat with Jean and told him her story. Just months earlier, the war in Ukraine broke out and Oksana’s family lived in what would soon become the front line. “She told me she’s one of six siblings,” Jean says. “Her brothers and dad have all been conscripted. She’s had no contact with them for months. She doesn’t know if they’re alive or not.” Oksana’s remaining family—her aunts, babies, grandparents and her mum—were all staying together in the same apartment block on the front line. “The reason why she recognised the logo is there was an ADRA van that picked them up,” Jean says. “The van came and extracted them, and as they drove off, the apartment block blew up. She expressed it as seconds away from being blown up.” Oksana shared that ADRA didn’t just evacuate them from the front line but that they helped her family transition into Poland as displaced people. “That was a very, very touching moment,” says Jean. “She’s like ‘Thank you so much’ and I’m just like, ‘I didn’t do that! It’s not me. But it’s the logo.’”

As of November 2023, ADRA has helped 40,265 people like Oksana’s family to evacuate. In February 2022, ADRA launched a global response to assist the millions of women, children, families and individuals who had fled their homes to escape shelling and seek refuge in neighbouring countries. ADRA’s response has included food and water provisions, shelter, transport, financial assistance, medical aid and psychosocial support. More than two years later, ADRA offices involved in the response have deepened their expertise in the fields of emergency response, psychosocial support, safeguarding and multi-purpose cash transfers.

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Ashley Stanton serves in ADRA Australia’s communication and marketing team. She lives in the heart of Sydney with her husband and two cats. To learn more about ADRA, visit <adra.org.au>. To read more about ADRA’s Ukraine response, visit <adra.org.au/ukraine>. JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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Are Humans Basically Good? Some believe humans, deep down, are fundamentally good. Dutch freedom fighters in World War II might disagree with that sentiment.

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TONY PARRISH

JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

few summers back, my wife and I hosted a reunion. We had all met many years earlier as young married couples, having moved to a large city and living within a few blocks of each other. Plus, we all attended the same church. While living in such close proximity, we did many things together and were in each other’s homes regularly. We camped together, had board game nights and had a weekly Bible study. Then, almost every weekend, we served in our local church. It was fantastic. But, as time wore on, each couple moved away to pursue new jobs, start families and adjust to the changes in life. We had drawn close over those early years, so we always tried to catch up when our paths crossed. Finally, all of us were able to get together for a reunion. It was great meeting the children, hearing stories and enjoying the familiarity of old friends. As the pastor in the group, many had contacted me for spiritual advice over the years. I had spent hours on the phone with one of the couples as they navigated challenges in their new church. I gave them advice on what to focus on, how to talk to the pastor, when to bring things to the church board and so on. But, things did not work out and they ended up leaving that church. As I sat in the backyard enjoying the reunion under the summer sun, I discovered that they had not only left the church but were no longer Christians at all. In fact, they had come 42

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to the conclusion that there was no God. It was a heartbreaking moment. As I listened to them recount how they came to their decision, our former time together flashed through my mind—studying the Bible, singing campfire songs, planning church events and experiencing the spiritual journey together. For them, it was no longer of any value. One thing they said to me really made me think. “What do you need saving from?” they asked. “Everyone is a good person deep down.” As I pondered that, an old story came flooding back to my mind.

a lesson from World War II

On June 5, 1953, the SS Sibajak sailed into Wellington Harbour after departing from Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Royal Rotterdam Lloyd Shipping Line Sibajak passenger liner transported Dutch migrants to

obtaining military, political and economic intelligence, and caring for the so-called onderduikers (undergrounders) and their families.”¹ My grandfather Jan was a print compositor and had skills that were useful for disrupting the German administration. Because of his involvement in the undergrounders, there came a time when German officers pounded on the door of the Vyver home. My grandfather surreptitiously removed a panel in an upstairs closet and stealthily hid in a small compartment made for this exact purpose. My uncle Peter answered the door and, in what has become part of family lore, told the German soldiers that his dad was “hiding in the closet!” The only thing that saved my grandfather was that the soldiers did not understand Dutch well enough to know what Peter was saying in his childish innocence. They searched JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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New Zealand and other parts of the world. When the ship made port, the Vyver family disembarked, looking to start a new life in New Zealand. This family was made up of the father and mother, Jan and Jitske, and their children, Jelte (John), Pier (Peter), Hobbe (Harry), Gezina and Elizabeth. Gezina is my mother. In 1953, she was five years old. The Vyver family were survivors of World War II, having lived in Nazi-occupied Friesland in the city of Leeuwarden. My grandfather Jan was part of the Dutch resistance—the undergrounders. In 2002, some confidential World War II-era papers were declassified. I saw in an April 1945 report (a month before the liberation of the Netherlands) that the Office of Strategic Services (the precursor to the CIA) observed: “The underground has concerned itself chiefly with obstructing German administration,

the house and found nothing. My family was saved that day. When I was born in 1979, Jan was only six years from his death. As a child, I had no knowledge or particular interest in my grandfather’s experiences in World War II. My eldest brother is eight years older than me and he convinced my grandmother to record an interview. Now that I am older, I would cherish the opportunity to sit down with my grandparents and talk with them about those days. Yet, my grandmother has also passed away, and in the foolishness of childhood, I recorded over the cassette my brother made of this interview. Her perspectives are now lost to time and the stories shared at family gatherings are all we have left. Despite that, I remember one thing on the tape that my grandmother said and it has stuck with me ever since. It is what I shared with my friends when they told me that deep down, we are all good. My grandmother said of that time in the Netherlands, “You didn’t have to worry about the Germans that much. It was your neighbours you had to watch out for.” In an effort to save their own lives, neighbours would turn against neighbours. As the basic human desire for survival came to its fullest depth of need, goodness disappeared. What surfaced was betrayal, violence, fear, dishonesty and selfishness. We discovered that the German soldiers were at the door of my grandfather’s home that day because one of his 44

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neighbours had turned him in. A neighbour they had lived next to for many, many years.

we are not good, but Jesus is

Many people today hold the same belief that my friends expressed to me. Why do we need saving if we are all basically good people? What do we need saving from? If I answer that question honestly, I need saving from myself. I know that deep down, I’m not good. I believe if the pressure were to get bad enough, as it did in World War II, that evil would likely come out. I am also certain that any pure goodness we can attain today can only come from God’s grace. The Bible talks about the nature of humans at the beginning of our history. After our first parents ate the fruit of the tree from which they were told not to eat, enmity entered the human experience. “I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your offspring and hers” (Genesis 3:15), God said to the serpent who tricked them. The goodness of God’s traits that He had placed within us was changed. Evil began making its way to the surface. It wasn’t long until the first act of violence brought the first human death—Cain murdering his own brother Abel. That selfish, hateful nature, passed down from our first parents as if coded into our DNA, has transported the problem of evil through many generations. Humans do awful things to each other daily. Accounts of the atrocities committed

Uncover the Power Jesus defeated of Gut Health evil forever so by people against others are pervasive in our society, showing that humans are not basically good. Yet, there is hope. Just as my grandfather did, there is a resistance, a present-day, worldwide underground movement. It’s happening right now in many lives through the power of Jesus Christ. He defeated evil by taking it on Himself, as Isaiah 53 describes:

Listen, Learn and Thrive

that I could exchange my evil for His goodness

Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering. . . . . . . He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed (verses 4, 5). Jesus took the punishment for our evil actions. “He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” (verse 12). I get to have a new nature because Jesus defeated evil forever so that I could exchange my evil for His goodness. If you look carefully, you will see that goodness is all around you, even amidst the darkness. It’s because of Jesus and I’m alive because of it.

Listen Now

1. Office of Strategic Services, “The Dutch Resistance The Guts to Change podcast with Dr. Movement,” Current Intelligence Study Number 6, April 6, 1945, <cia.gov/readingroom/docs/ Leimena-Lehn covers: DOC_0000709432.pdf> • What is gut health? • How does it affect your day-to-day? • How can you achieve better gut health?

FRANK MERIÑO—PEXELS

Tony Parrish is a pastor, husband and dad living in Taranaki, New Zealand.

JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

the hidden dangers of

ENERGY

drinks Are energy drinks really the solution? DR CHRISTIANA LEIMENA-LEHN

SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU • JUNE 2024

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JOZSEF HOCZA—UNSPLASH

oss of energy is caused by various factors that demand more than our body can cope with. Unfortunately, humans tend to push the body beyond its limits with the aid of caffeine and other stimulants to increase energy and performance for work, leisure, studies and sport. Energy drinks have been on the market for a long time, and though they can increase alertness and energy, they come with potentially harmful effects. The energy drinks market in Australia increased between 2016 and 2021 with a growth of 15.74 per cent during 2020.¹ Today, we have these energy drink brands in Australia and NZ: Shine, Red Bull, Mother, Monstere, Powerade, V and more. In 2024, Canstar Blue reported that for overall satisfaction, Aussies rate Mother as the top drink, followed by V, Monster Energy and Red Bull² (the brand with the highest sales). The safe consumption of energy drinks is controversial. While there are reports of increased energy drink consumption amongst US adolescents, recent studies showed eight per cent of 8942 Australian secondary students consume energy drinks at least weekly³, with 51.2 per cent of Western Australia’s 3688 high school students drinking an energy drink either monthly, weekly or daily⁴. Young people from adolescents to young adulthood are the target of marketing for these drinks. The main consumers are boys and young men, consuming them before and during

school to increase focus and productivity. One of the major concerns lies in the amplified effects of high levels of caffeine, stimulants and high fructose corn syrup or low-calorie sweeteners for children’s developing brains and smaller body size.5

added risks

In the US, there are more cases of binge drinking among those who mix energy drinks with alcohol than those who don’t.6 The Centers for Disease Control reports more risky behaviours such as unwanted/ unprotected sex, drink driving and intense binge drinking amongst 15-23-year-olds who mix alcohol with energy drinks, compared to those who don’t mix the drinks.6 Furthermore, 42 per cent of emergency cases involving energy drinks featured energy drinks being combined with drugs (illicit drugs as well as prescription medication)7. The prominence of energy drinks in these reports raises questions about what is in them that causes negative behaviour among young people.

contents of energy drinks

The differences between energy drinks and a cup of coffee are attributed to the higher caffeine and/or high sugar contents and the additives to boost performance. Some energy drinks have zero sugar but have alternative sweeteners. The common ingredients among most energy drinks are caffeine, sugar, guarana, taurine, ginseng, glucuronolactone, 48

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In the US, more cases of binge drinking are with those who combine energy drinks with alcohol than those who don’ B vitamins, yohimbe, carnitine and bitter orange7. So, what’s in these substances and why are they harmful?

taurine

Our body produces taurine, an amino acid involved in many different functions such as regulating calcium release; processing bile acids; balancing fluids, salts and minerals; energy production; as well as reducing stress, inflammation and disease8. During illness or stress, the body may need more taurine9. Taurine first gained popularity amongst athletes in improving aerobic and anaerobic performance10. However, there are differing recommendations on the safe level of taurine supplementation in addition to a diet of meat, fish, dairy and eggs, which provides 40-400 mg of taurine per serving. Even though a European Food Safety Authority

s e

’t

guarana

Guarana is a Brazilian plant and the seeds of the guarana fruit contain stimulants such as caffeine, theophylline and theobromine, as well as some antioxidants. The guarana seeds contain four to six times more

caffeine than coffee beans. In high doses, guarana causes similar side effects to excessive caffeine intake.12

ginseng

Many varieties of this herb are widely used in Chinese medicine. The most popular is the American ginseng and the Asian ginseng. Ginseng contains ginsenosides and gintonin which complement each other to provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Although various studies have shown potential benefits such as improving memory, behaviour and mood, increasing energy levels and fighting fatigue13, there are also concerns about the association with the development of some cancer types14. The amount of ginseng in a serving size of energy drinks is varied and unclear.

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KABOOMPICS— PEXELS

report claimed that the 6000 mg limit is safe9, it is recommended to stay within the 3000 mg maximum limit. Energy drinks typically contain 750-1000 mg of taurine per serving11. As taurine is a calcium release regulator there are concerns about exacerbating cardiac effects when combined with caffeine11. While some studies show that taurine can help with diabetes, improve heart health, enhance muscle contraction, increase oxygen uptake and delay muscle fatigue, there is still more research needed on the dosage for supplementation and treatment9.

caffeine

Caffeine is a psychoactive stimulant of the methylxanthine class. It is sourced from coffee beans, cacao beans, yerba maté, guarana berry, kola nuts and tea leaves. It is both fat and water-soluble so it can readily cross the blood-brain barrier. Caffeine acts in competition against adenosine by blocking the adenosine receptors to prevent sleepiness and promote wakefulness. It has long been legally available to minors, widely used by all age groups and “considered” as GRAS (generally recognised as safe). Unfortunately, the caffeine content of some energy drinks is unknown. The half-life of caffeine is five hours in an average adult and extended in pregnant women, young children and babies. Children older than nine years old develop the same half-life elimination as adults. The government recommends a maximum caffeine intake of 400 mg per day for adults, 200 mg per day for pregnant women and three mg for children, per kg of weight. With energy drinks marketed as beverages or dietary supplements, there is no requirement to declare the caffeine content. One cup of coffee in general contains about 100 mg of caffeine. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has a standardised legal limit of 32 mg 50

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of caffeine per 100 ml of cola-type soft and energy drinks. Red Bull and Mother, for example, have 32 mg of caffeine per 100 ml, but Mother has a 500 ml serving size, which equates to 160 mg of caffeine per can.

isn’t caffeine good for you?

In the US, more than 45 per cent of caffeine intoxication reports involve children or adolescents11. As with any medication or drug, caffeine also has mild-to-severe adverse effects depending on dosage and the individual’s sensitivity. With an average cup of coffee, caffeine affects hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol and dopamine. It also impacts the heart, kidneys and blood vessels by increasing the heart rate, inducing stronger cardiac contraction, causing heart rhythm disturbances, increasing your systolic blood pressure and making you agitated, edgy and jumpy. It causes anxiety, digestive problems, irritability, sleep problems, rapid heartbeat and palpitations in both children and adults. Particularly for children, high caffeine in energy drinks can disrupt their still-developing cardiovascular and nervous systems and interfere with their sleep patterns. What a drink! Or wait, should we call it a psychoactive drug?

While consuming energy drinks may be helpful to reverse fatigue and enhance physical performance, there could be a better, healthier strategy. There are concerns about the high caffeine content that is harmful to adolescents, as well as the high sugar and the unknown impact of the combination of caffeine with some of the stimulating additives. The physiological reaction and the statistics from energy drink consumption have shown stress on the body, unhealthy behaviours in adolescents, poor sleep quality, digestion issues, increase in blood pressure and increased risk of insulin resistance. Could energy drinks be bandaids over an existing underlying issue of low energy? Energy which would likely be improved from a better sleep routine, nutritious fuel, assessment of blood biomarkers or even addressing depressive symptoms and their causes. Next time you go to reach for a can, assess your body’s condition and do yourself a favour by being kinder to it through water hydration, restorative sleep, a nutritious meal and an active body. The truth is, a simple glass of water is still the best beverage of choice that is calorie-free and cleansing. Dr Christiana Leimena-Lehn has worked in cardiovascular research in molecular cardiology and hypertension. She has a passion in educating and promoting whole-person health and nutrition.

1. Global Data. Australia Energy Drinks (Soft Drinks) Market Assessment and Forecast to 2026. Global Data; 2023 Mar 24 2023. Available from: <globaldata. com/store/report/australia-energy-drinks-market-analysis/> 2. Canstar Group Research. Best-Rated Energy Drinks. Canstar Blue Canstar Blue; 2022 Jan 2022. Available from: <canstarblue.com.au/groceries/ energy-drinks/> 3. Nuss T, Morley B, Scully M, Wakefield M. Energy drink consumption among Australian adolescents associated with a cluster of unhealthy dietary behaviours and short sleep duration. Nutr J. 2021 Jul 5;20(1):64. doi:10.1186/s12937-021-00719-z 4. Trapp G, Hurworth M, Christian H, Bromberg M, Howard J, McStay C, et al. Prevalence and pattern of energy drink intake among Australian adolescents. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2021;34(2):300-4. <doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12789> 5. Harvard T.H. Chan—School of Public Health. Energy Drinks. Harvard T.H. Chan—School of Public Health; 2020 July 2020. Available from: <hsph. harvard.edu/nutritionsource/ energy-drinks/> 6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Alcohol and Caffeine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2024 Feb 29 2024. Available from: <cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/ caffeine-and-alcohol.htm> 7. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Energy Drinks. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health; 2018. Available from: <nccih.nih. gov/health/energy-drinks>. 8. Jakaria M, Azam S, Haque ME, Jo SH, Uddin MS, Kim IS, et al. Taurine and its analogs in neurological disorders: Focus on therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms. Redox Biol. 2019 Jun;24:101223. doi:10.1016/j.redox.2019.101223 9. Gavin Van De Walle & Rudy Mawer. What is taurine?2022. Available from: <healthline.com/nutrition/ what-is-taurine#benefits>. 10. Kurtz JA, VanDusseldorp TA, Doyle JA, Otis JS. Taurine in sports and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 May 26;18(1):39. doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00438-0 11. Curran CP, Marczinski CA. Taurine, caffeine, and energy drinks: Reviewing the risks to the adolescent brain. Birth Defects Res. 2017 Dec 1;109(20):1640-8. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1177 12. Ryan Raman. 12 Benefits of Guarana (Plus Side Effects)2018. Available from: <healthline.com/nutrition/guarana-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_14>. 13. Arlene Semeco. 7 Proven Health Benefits of Ginseng2022. Available from: <healthline.com/nutrition/ ginseng-benefits#how-to-use>. 14. Pradhan P, Wen W, Cai H, Gao Y-T, Shu X-o, Zheng W. Prospective Cohort Study of Ginseng Consumption in Association with Cancer Risk: Shanghai Women’s Health Study. The Journal of Nutrition. 2023 2023/04/01/;153(4):1170-7. <doi.org/10.1016/j. tjnut.2023.02.032>.

JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

GARRETT SEARS—UNSPLASH

the verdict

All questions this month have been taken from the online community <reddit.com/r/christianity>. Names have been removed and questions have been modified to protect the identities of users.

REDDIT EDITION

I’m a high school student and I honestly feel completely hopeless. Will I get into heaven if I commit suicide?

Firstly, you need to know that God loves you. As the adage goes, suicide is a “permanent solution to a temporary problem”. We all suffer but it’s made even more difficult when other people don’t understand what you’re going through. As much as your pain feels all-consuming, the reality is, whether in this life or the life to come, it will pass away. I can’t say whether or not suicide will bar you from heaven, but what I do know is that it will prevent you from experiencing the joy and love of Jesus right here, right now. As much as I and many others look forward to the day when “every tear will be wiped” from our eyes, and when pain will be no more, things can and will get better if you persevere, get help and reach out to people who care about you. That includes God. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). I can’t promise it will get better overnight, or that it will ever completely heal, but every suicide survivor I’ve ever met will tell you that it’s worth the fight. If this question caused you distress, help is available. Visit Beyond Blue at <beyondblue.org.au>. For crisis support or suicide prevention, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (AU) or 0800 543 354 (NZ).

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I’m asexual and I’ve always been taught that it’s a sin to have premarital sex. If I sleep with my boyfriend, fully clothed, is that ok? I don’t feel sexual attraction that much. While I’m sympathetic to your need for connection, I think you have a bigger challenge. Sex is an amazing gift God has given for marriage, but if you do decide to marry, have you discussed how you will negotiate sex? It is a powerful force, but much heartache stems from poor communication about sexual expectations. My advice is to be as honest as possible with your partner about those expectations and do so prayerfully and with love. Is my grandma in hell? She wasn’t Christian and in fact held “new age” beliefs. She was a nice person, beloved

by all, but had bad habits like constant marijuana use. Do you think she was saved or is she in hell now? First off, no, she’s not in hell right now. According to the Bible, when you die, you sleep (Ecclesiastes 9:5, Romans 6:23). As for the other part of your question, I didn’t know your grandma—but God did. We all have a journey and each of us struggles in different areas. Ultimately, we are made right with God through faith in Jesus. If your grandma had faith in Jesus, there’s a good chance you’ll see her in the resurrection. God loves us so much that He gives us the choice. So, whether you’ll see her in the next life is entirely up to the choices she made when she was on this earth.

What do you think about contraception? I’m only a “baby Christian”, so I’m not very well informed. All I know is that with my personal feelings, I can’t quite fathom how a condom is bad, especially in the context of marriage. God’s command to humanity in Genesis was to be “fruitful and multiply” over the earth. God wants us to be married, have children and enjoy the amazing blessings that family brings. However, having kids today is complicated. It’s expensive, time-consuming and a significant emotional investment. As a new dad with a young baby in my house, I know this all too well! It’s also true that some Christians are against contraception for spiritual reasons. However, I think it’s wiser to control when and how you or your significant other becomes pregnant. Happy accidents still happen, but because starting a family is such a significant life shift, contraception is a great option that modern medicine has given us to help plan a family wisely. Better to bring a child into the world having properly prepared, rather than have it be a stress on account of bad timing. Want to get your question published in the next issue of the magazine? Ask Jesse a question by scanning this QR code!

JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

Finding Meaning in the Multiverse 54

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RYAN STANTON

ove him or hate him, Marvel’s raunchiest superhero, Deadpool, is once again here to save the world—and this time he’s bringing some beloved friends with him. On July 26, Marvel Studios is set to release Deadpool and Wolverine, the long–awaited third film starring the sometimes–controversial character. While the character’s foul–mouthed and innuendo–laden exploits may give some fans pause, the edgy anti-hero is big business—his last two films are the third and fourth-highest grossing (American) R-Rated films of all time, surpassing even Mel Gibson’s The Passion of The Christ. It’s this success that Marvel is hoping to leverage to rejuvenate their somewhat-shaky brand after a string of underperforming films and television shows. Indeed, many eyes are looking towards Deadpool and Wolverine as a possible antidote to audiences’ superhero fatigue. In addition to Marvel’s recent woes, DC Studios’ last four films have failed to make back their budgets while Sony’s Spider-Man universe is in shambles after the catastrophic failure of Madame Web. To this end, it seems Marvel is pulling out all the stops to try to make the trilogy caper a surefire success. Not only are they pairing Ryan Reynolds’ anti-hero with Hugh Jackman’s fan favourite Wolverine, trailers promise that the film is diving deep into the well that has reaped the company dividends in previous projects: the multiverse.

here we go again

Like the two-billion-dollar success of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the bizarre Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness or the critically acclaimed Loki TV series, Deadpool and Wolverine promises to JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

MARVEL STUDIO

g e

The multiverse is a popular motif in modern movies, but what does it reveal about our search for meaning in the world?

be a pivotal part of what Marvel has called “The Multiverse Saga”. For Marvel, the use of the multiverse for their next big saga works in two ways. Firstly, it solves the problem of where to go after Avengers: Endgame featured the Avengers saving the entire universe. If bigger is better, then setting up a conflict where every universe is at stake is the natural escalation of events. More importantly though, it provides the promise of endless opportunities for nostalgia and fan service. Sure, nobody really loved The Amazing Spider-Man films but the opportunity to see Andrew Garfield’s Peter Parker team up with Tobey Maguire and Tom Holland is too enticing for audiences to ignore—and Marvel are hoping the same will hold true for seeing the two solo X-Men team up in Deadpool and Wolverine. Of course, whether this ends up succeeding remains to be seen. The movie is still forthcoming at the time of publication but it’s clear they at least feel like the demand for more multiverse movies is there. After all, Marvel is hardly the only studio in recent history to use the multiverse. Indeed, the idea that there are innumerable worlds, each defined by choices we have made or will make, is a concept with a long and storied history. In 1998, the Gwyneth Paltrow romantic comedy Sliding Doors uses the idea to explore how even mundane moments like catching or missing a train can have large ripple effects on how our lives will turn out. 56

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Similarly, author CS Lewis used the concept of the multiverse in his book The Magician’s Nephew to explain the origins of Narnia, the setting for his most beloved stories. The idea even allegedly predates Christ, with early Greek philosophers proposing the possibility of numerous worlds existing beyond our own. But while the concept is well established, it has seen something of a boom in popularity in recent years. 2022’s Oscar award winner for best picture, Everything Everywhere All At Once, used the concept to tell a touching story about an immigrant family while acclaimed game developer Bethesda Studios had mixed success in implementing the idea in their recent space epic Starfield. And the list goes on and on. Star Trek, Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth, The Flash, Rick and Morty, Doctor Who—all these TV shows, videogames and films are interested in exploring the concept of the multiverse. All of this works to highlight a pertinent question surrounding the concept: why is the multiverse an interesting idea in the first place?

laws of attraction

One explanation is that different versions of heroes across different realities reflect the many different hats we find ourselves wearing in today’s increasingly chaotic and demanding society. Writing for The New Yorker, Stephanie Burt argues that “we may feel like different people . . . as we move between

Why is the multiverse an interesting idea in the first place?

the focus is on helping us make sense of the personal—the everyday lives we find ourselves confined in. Another possibility is that these stories, rather than helping us understand the ways the world has shaped us, provide an opportunity to showcase how our actions can shape the world. It is not uncommon for stories dealing with multiverses to deal with apocalyptic stakes–the scale of infinite universes requires a similarly large threat to deal with, of course–but it is in tying the apocalyptic to the personal that many of these stories gain a greater meaning and resonance. In Everything Everywhere All At Once, the potential end of all universes is not brought about by a towering villain like Thanos, but by the broken relationship between mother and daughter. To prevent it, the relationship must be mended. Similarly, in Loki, the universe is saved, not through physical fights, but through conversations which help the protagonist accept his purpose in life.

what’s in the box?

In this way, multiverse stories hit a nerve that many of us can relate to–the idea that our world is flawed, and that a better world is possible. But while many of these stories posit that a better world can come from a few key decisions, effecting change in the real world is rarely as simple. However, that does not mean that these stories have no value. Indeed, a better future often starts with the JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

MARVEL STUDIO

work and home and parent-teacher conferences . . . hence a TV show like Loki, whose titular antihero has numerous manifestations”. The multiverse, according to this theory, provides us an opportunity to examine the potentialities of “what could have been” as a way of understanding how we ended up where we are. While the scope may be infinite,

MARVEL STUDIO

choices we make. One of the most fitting examples of this comes from the complicated and sometimes controversial game BioShock Infinite, which positions the birth of the multiverse as springing from protagonist Booker DeWitt’s choice of whether or not to be baptised. In one universe, DeWitt refuses to take the plunge, overwhelmed by the guilt of his sins as a soldier fighting in the Battle of Wounded Knee. In another, he uses baptism as an excuse to absolve his guilt without taking steps to change and becomes the monstrous ruler of a nation perpetuating slavery. In both universes, issues persist and spiral. It is only at the games climax, where DeWitt revisits the baptism and acknowledges that he cannot solve his problems on his own and accepts

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the help of others in the ritual, that a better world can be built. This then helps illustrate the enduring appeal of the multiverse. The world we live in is flawed and broken–wars, famine, disease, poverty—the problems we face are myriad and often overwhelming, so much so that change may seem impossible. A better world may be possible, but it is not something we can reach alone. The first, and most important step, is acknowledging our limitations and seeking help. Once we do that, the possibilities become endless. Ryan Stanton is a PhD student studying media and communications at the University of Sydney. He’s a passionate follower of Jesus, avid board gamer and admirer of science fiction.

positively different From family LIFE to physical HEALTH, sacred MUSIC to vibrant SPIRITUALITY, Faith FM programs will brighten your day and guide you on the way.

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Find your nearest station or listen online at WWW.FAITHFM.COM.AU

The Perfect Smoothie

You may love smoothies but wonder why you still feel hungry right after drinking them. Here’s an easy formula to build a perfectly balanced smoothie that will help you feel full and keep you firing on all cylinders.

Are smoothies good for me? The short answer is—sometimes. They’re great when you are time-poor, need 60

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an easy, portable breakfast that can pack in nutrients or want a way to get some extra fruit, veggies, nuts and

maximum nutrition and fibre. Adding vegetables to your smoothie is a simple way to help you reach your goal of five servings a day. Most blend in easily without altering the taste. 4. Go for good fats Include some healthy fats like nut butter, seeds or avocado for longer-lasting satisfaction. Avocado can also help give your smoothie a luxurious, creamy texture without impacting flavour.

1. Have fun with fruit Include at least one fruit and if you like a creamy smoothie, frozen bananas are a great option for taste and texture. Using frozen fruits is also

5. Grab a grain Adding whole grains to your smoothies is a great way to help meet your recommended 48 grams of whole grains per day. Plus, they can also help you feel fuller for longer, and they make the smoothie nice and thick. Try a quarter of a cup of rolled oats with

2. Pack it with protein Include protein to help keep you feeling fuller for longer. You can add soy or dairy milk, yogurt or nut butter for tasty, smoothie-friendly protein.

6. Slow down and enjoy If you can, take time to sip it slowly and savour the taste. Studies have shown that eating slowly and mindfully helps provide a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. When you’re eating (or drinking!) too quickly, your body doesn’t get a chance to signal to the brain that you’re getting full and should probably stop eating.

a good way to decrease food waste by using up fruit that may be past its best (or aren’t available in the colder months). Chop the fruit up and store it in a container in the freezer, ready to drop into the blender.

dates.

3. Don’t forget the veg Add at least one veggie, such as baby spinach, carrot or cucumber, for Article courtesy of Sanitarium Health Food Company. Visit <sanitarium. com.au> or <sanitarium.co.nz> and subscribe to Recipe of the Week for a delicious plant-powered recipe in your inbox each week. JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

LUIZ FERNANDO—PEXELS

seeds into the kids. However, if you overload it with sweeteners and forget the healthy fats, protein or complex carbs, then you are likely consuming a drink that’s high in calories but unsatisfying. The best smoothies don’t just taste great—they’re also nutritionally balanced, with a nice mix of whole foods, good fats and protein. A well-made smoothie can be a healthy choice at any time of the day and is a far better alternative than skipping meals completely. It’s just a matter of getting the right balance. Now for the perfect formula:

Crossword Puzzle

CROSSWORD

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

1 2 3 4

5 6

7 8

pularised by Charles Snyder ope" in Arabic acid the body produces naturally minority group native to Myanmar story that tempts us with the

Across: 4. Brazillian plant that contains c among others 7. Dutch city and capital of Fries 8. a plan for managing your inco 9. in this country there is happe

SUDOKU

crossword clues DOWN 1 Theory popularised by Charles Snyder 2 Means “hope” in Arabic 3 An amino acid the body produces naturally 5 An ethnic minority group native to Myanmar 6 A type of story that tempts us with the possibility of making past wrongs right 11 Aid organsation that saved Oksana’s family in Ukraine 12 Where humans only ate vegetables and fruit ACROSS 4 Brazilian plant that contains caffeine, among other chemicals 7 Dutch city and capital of Friesland province 8 A plan for managing your income 9 In this country there is happening a “crisis of despair” 10 A translation of the Bible first published in 1611

easy

7 4

4 1

3 8

7 2

9 1

hard

2 6

Hint: 5 Down

WIKICOMMONS

1 2

5 9 8

2 7

9 8

SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE SIGNSOFTHETIMES.ORG.AU JUNE 2024 • SIGNS OF THE TIMES.ORG.AU

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