News

Welcoming Words Newsletter    June 2025

By Debbie Sorensen

Well hello there. The good news for today is, ordinary events are available in life which have the possibility to cause us to listen and learn.

Life today is driven by schedules, appointments, and to-do-lists. Even if we are not in the corporate world, involved in business or raising families, life has a way of steam rolling us. Before we know it, we can have the “screaming-meanies” or want to take off for Lower Slobovia, never be seen again. However, God provides the way for us to listen and learn, if we settle down under the circumstances and stand His on truth.

I must say, there have been way too many times in my life, I have found myself in just those situations. My Norwegian friend Torborg used to comment, “Ja, that is no funny ‘ting.”

As an octogenarian, a nonagenarian, and a centenarian, (persons in their 80’s, 90’s and 100’s), this dear Scandinavian mentor had faith, practical advice and I knew she cared.

In the 1970’s and ‘80’s there was a quote, “When EF Hutton talks, people listen.” I found myself applying that concept to Torborg. She would listen patiently to my recitations, nod her head and then proceed to share a situation she had gone through. Her faith in God was her foundation and her experience in life give her tremendous credibility. Hospitality was a hallmark of her care and a sense of humor drew others to this dear woman. When Torborg talked, I listened and learned.

Torborg died at 101 1/2 years of age. The day after her funeral, I was taking three grandchildren home when the five-year old stated. “I’ve been wondering. What it is like to die?”

 I looked into the rearview mirror at three expectant faces waiting for a response.

I thought of Torborg. She was a person who loved God and searched His Word regularly to find direction for life.  She knew her hope was based on the truth of Scripture. Her life was the Bible on display and I grew as I watched how she lived her life each day. If I shopped with her, I knew I would not see her snitch a few grapes. When she was not charged for an article in her shopping cart, she would call that to the attention of the clerk and be sure every item was accounted for on her receipt. Yes, her life reflected God’s truth for each of us. 

I glanced into the mirror. “Torborg, took time each day to talk with God in prayer. She lived by His Ten Commandments and knew that Jesus was her Lord and Savior. She was not afraid to die, because she knew from the words of the Bible, her last breathe on earth would be her first breathe in Heaven. There is no doubt that she had a special welcome, as she began new life in eternity.”

My grandson, smiled and said, “Great. When we get to Heaven, you’ll see her and you can introduce her to us, because we know Jesus too.”

Ah yes, listen and learn. First to the Word of God. Also, to family and friends who take time to listen, learn and live for the Lord, now and in eternity to come.

Contact:  Debbie Sorensen at [email protected]