To the editor:

Welcome to the Independent publisher Gregory Orear and editor, Mike Lamb.

This is a four-part letter.

I. “Are you sure you’re pro-life…really?” This question was asked in an editorial July 8-9, 2017. There are two sources for answers to life’s questions: man’s thoughts/experiences or God’s thoughts as revealed in the Bible. As the writer stated, “Christians believe God is the creator of life.” “…you (Lord) knit me together in my mother’s womb.” (Psalm 138:13)

“Loving our neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:), we can welcome those who are seeking refuge to our country in an orderly, prudent manner.

God does give “governing authorities” the right to “bear the sword.” … “to bring punishment on the wrong doer.” (Romans 13:1-5) Sometimes it is necessary for a government to fight wars to defeat those who are wrong in their treatment of others.

Regarding the sexual relationships of His creation of man and woman, God is very specific. “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure …” I Hebrews 13:4). Romans 1:18-28 plainly speak “sexual impurities” and other sins we may be prone to commit, for we all guilty of not obeying God’s commandments. Yet “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son (Jesus) that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

If we are pro-God we will strive to do His will because He loved us first.

“This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; … ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jeremiah 6:16)

II. Another question asked on the July 8-9 editorial page was, “What to the Dakota, People of Minnesota and other Native Americans is the 4th of July?”

Our country and other countries have erred, unfortunately, in their treatment of people. The past is never, for anyone, a perfect place to dwell in.

Celebrating the 4th of July can be like celebrating a birthday — not dwelling on past hurts or pain, but being thankful for present blessings. Our freedom to worship, speak and write our thoughts without punishment, and the right to vote are blessings so long as we use them to honor our Creator, and not to degrade or be malicious toward others.

III. Congratulations Balaton, on your 125th fun celebration. Now a question for your historical society: Does the name “Balaton” have a reason for its name? Possibly connected to Lake Balaton in Hungary?

IV. We are fortunate to have so many “live” summer events to enjoy right in our own towns on the prairie. In Marshall — thank you to the community band and director, Bob Meffert, the cast of the musical “Little Mermaid,” and all the planned events at our museum, library and parks.

Trudy Madetzke

Marshall