Stories & Commentaries

About Stories & Commentaries

From time to time, the North American Division shares commentaries on issues and/or events important to Adventists in this division. We also publish stories, which sometimes include interviews and features, to inspire our leaders and members.

paradise church empty plot after fire destruction

Community in the Midst of Crisis

It’s been three and a half years since the Camp Fire devastated Paradise and several nearby communities in 2018. The fire, which has been attributed to two ignition points sparked by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) power lines, tore through the town in about four hours, destroying more than 18,000 structures (including about 14,000 residences) and killing 86 people.

Zsakeba Watkins Henderson

Making a Difference for Mothers and Babies

From a humble beginning in the small city of Camden, New Jersey, to serving as the senior vice president for maternal/child health impact at the national organization of March of Dimes, Zsakeba Watkins Henderson, M.D., recognizes how her mother’s vision and sacrifice, God’s faithfulness, and the generosity of others has brought her to this position, which affords her the opportunity to help make a critical difference in the lives of mothers and babies.

Woman in business suit looking towards camera with two coworkers by her side.

A Chance at the Mic

This article is a collection of responses from the various student groups who shared their thoughts on “the 3Ms” with NAD leadership. Not every question is included in this article, nor is every response shown, but each group who responded is represented — and what is included are examples of the most common responses, as well as several unique stand-alone responses.

stock photo of laptop on airport seat

Because He Cares

On a Friday afternoon after flying home from a week of meetings, I discovered that my laptop was missing. Panic hit. The last time I’d backed up my computer was two and a half months ago. So much work had happened since then. Committees, emails, documents, all were gone. My mind turned heavenward.

stock photo of candle holder house with heart shape for Christmas

My Christmas List

This season I pray that we don’t all get so wrapped up in our gift-giving that we forget the One that this season is all about, Jesus Christ. He needs to be at the top of our Christmas gift-giving list. He wants every one of His children to give Him all of their hearts.

HeartScan mentorship and worship program at Union College

HeartScan at Union College: Student Learns the Value of Having a Spiritual Mentor

As part of building a deeper community that makes faith the foundation of the learning experience, Union requires students to attend a certain number of worship events each semester — ranging from campus-wise chapels to small Bible study groups. HeartScan provides an alternative for students who want to delve more deeply into their spiritual growth with the help of an employee mentor.

stock photo Thanksgiving table with scripture quote

The Spiritual Discipline of Gratitude

Like you, I have challenges in my life. At times they have threatened to overwhelm me. But I have a spiritual discipline of gratitude that is giving me the strength to overcome them. My overcoming involves being able to trust God more and live by the truth that I am loved by God, He is my provider, and I don’t have to know all the steps in my future. When it’s time, He’ll reveal the next step.

stock photo of mic and podium

Exciting Work, Important Ministry

Working for Jesus is exciting work! For the past year I have had the wonderful privilege of supporting the media and media-related ministries of the North American Division. Each of these ministries plays a pivotal role in helping people to come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

stock photo of man in suit with Bible

They Need to Know

I’ve been truly blessed that the pastors in my life have been committed, caring reflections of God’s love. They have not been perfect, but I’ve seen God in and through them. And in this appreciation month in particular I am grateful.

Armando Miranda Jr. at Arkansas summer camp 2022

Ministry in Action at an Arkansas Summer Camp

In early July 2022, Armando Miranda Jr., associate director from the North American Division Youth and Young Adult Ministries department, spent a week in the whirlwind of summer camp ministries at Camp Yorktown Bay, a historical retreat on Arkansas’ Lake Ouachita. In addition to leadership opportunities, Miranda was impressed by the healing he observed during his time at camp.