Calvin Synod Herald, 2011 (112. évfolyam, 3-12. szám)
2011-05-01 / 5-6. szám
10 CALVIN SYNOD HERALD Continued from page 3 So let’s think: instead of giving advice or instruction, can we begin with humbleness? We miss the point, when we, "the older and more experienced friends" of the young graduates, wish to offer unsolicited advice, as this may create the impression that we are more knowledgeable - or that the new graduate may never be able to learn what is needed to learn all by him/herself. Romans 12:2 says: "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world..." And if we wish to be objective, we should admit that the world in which we live and struggle, was not messed up by those who just entered into it. If we tell the young people that this age is cruel and confusing, they can ask in return: well, who made it that way? During the graduation season, as we meditate on our Scripture above, let all of us ask in a humble and modest way: what is the divine message for the old and new generations alike? Motivation Instead of Correction and Inspiration Instead of Instruction All of us eventually learn that every end is a new beginning. Eventually, we come to realize that nothing is completely finished in such a way that it would not be continued in a different form. If we finish high school, we may continue our studies in college. Or if we receive our diploma from a university, we may begin to work for and learn from the new boss. If we retire, we can use our talent, energy, and time to work as a volunteer. And when we finish our earthly life we will be with the Lord. (See 1 Thessalonians 4:17.) We must never lose sight of the fact that there are things we never finish, as long as we live. Although we may have a diploma that proves that we are ready to pursue a profession, it does not guarantee that we will know everything in our field. The person who stops improving him/herself begins to backslide. Not only does our knowledge continuously need to be increased but our patience, friendliness and faith as well. Additionally, let us consider the interpretation of success. If we measure our advancement in the world only in terms of income and wealth such as the house in which we live, the car we drive, and our savings in the bank, then we must immediately pause to think. Shrewd and forceful people climb up on the social ladder rather fast; however, there is more to life than accumulated material wealth. Let our financial success, happy family life and clear conscience remain compatible and in balance. Knowledge and experience are vital, but a nice personality is also important in all of our social encounters - something every successful working professional knows very, very well. Also, consequences do matter - and it’s important to not overlook the indirect consequences. In other-words, just because everybody is doing it, this does not mean that we should do it also. And if the consequences of a certain policy or action will be felt only decades later, it is not permission to continue it. As anyone who was raised and loved by their parents, when the time comes for children, we should likewise bring up and support them in love, as every generation is a link between the previous and the one that follows. Finally, it’s important to remember to not allow ourselves to fall into vicious cycles. For instance, when we are at war we want peace; when we live in peace we want comfort; when we enjoy comfort we desire wealth; when we possess some wealth we want power. And at the end when we have peace, comfort, wealth, and power - then suddenly war breaks out again among competing nations or fight among greedy and jealous people. This is a trap we must work hard to avoid. The Apostle Paul offered this advice in Romans 12:2: ". . . be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Changes - that is transformations and improvements - are always necessary! And one of the changes that offers so much comes from 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation...". Rev. Alexander Jalso News From Our Beloved Bethlen Home Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, Dear Friends, Many of you and many of your congregations are regular supporters of Bethlen Communities in prayer and in financial commitment. I would like to share with you some good news, which we received this week. Bethlen Communities was twice recognized for the excellent quality of care provided within our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). First, we received word that the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), accredited Bethlen Communities for another three years! Evaluated this year were the Bethlen Nursing Home, Ligonier Gardens Personal Care Home, Bethlen Home Health/Hospice/Companion Care Services, Friendship Gardens (a unique program designed for those suffering from dementia) and Bethlen’s Governance standards. All areas included in the survey received high marks. CARF evaluates communities like Bethlen throughout North America. Receiving accreditation means that Bethlen Communities is within the top tier of CCRC’s within the U.S. and Canada. Second, and this is a first, Bethlen Nursing Home is ranked by US News and World Report to be among the top 11 nursing homes within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for 2011! In addition to thanking our fine staff and the Bethlen Board of Directors for all the good things happening here in Ligonier, we thank all of you, our supporters and friends in the larger Church and Hungarian American communities. Without your prayers and without your donations, much of what we do here in Ligonier could not be accomplished. Above all, we thank God, who leads and helps us in all things along the way. What fine tributes to Bethlen Communities in this, our 90th Anniversary year. To God be the glory! In Christ, Rev. Imre A. Bertalan Executive Director of Bethlen Home soc#
