Is the God of the Old Testament the Same God of the New Testament?

Earlier this month, I spoke about my time at YWAM’s School of Biblical Studies (SBS) and some sobering questions that had been stirring in my heart concerning the nature of God. Reading the book of Leviticus led me to ask the question, “Is the God of the Old Testament the same God of the New Testament?” It was something I hadn’t considered since I was ten or eleven years old. A common misunderstanding, but one I had reconciled over fifteen years ago. I have confidence that God is Immutable- Unchanging - so I was surprised when I found myself questioning something so foundational to my belief system.
The method we use in the school forces us to slow down and get very intentional with our study of the text. That way, if during the first or second read-throughs nothing catches the eye, certainly by the third or fourth time you comb the text some word or statement will have you contemplating, meditating, and seeking the LORD. For me, one passage hit me every single time... but I was compelled to return to it even after the assigned homework was “completed.” By the sixth or seventh time I was reading Leviticus 21:16-24, I was emotional and confused as to Who was giving these instructions:

“And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
‘Speak to Aaron, saying, “None of your offspring throughout their generations who has a blemish may approach to offer the bread of his God. For no one who has a blemish shall draw near, a man blind or lame, or one who has a mutilated face or a limb too long, or a man who has an injured foot or an injured hand, or a hunchback or a dwarf or a man with a defect in his sight or an itching disease or scabs or crushed testicles. No man of the offspring of Aaron the priest who has a blemish shall come near to offer the LORD’s food offerings; since he has a blemish, he shall not come near to offer the bread of his God. He may eat the bread of his God, both of the most holy and of the holy things, but he shall not go through the veil or approach the altar, because he has a blemish, that he may not profane my sanctuaries, for I am the LORD who sanctifies them.”’
So Moses spoke to Aaron and to his sons and to all the people of Israel.”
[Leviticus 21:16-24 ESV]

A frank statement is depicted in the Pentateuch: YAHWEH was setting Israel apart from other nations in the Ancient Near East. Nonetheless, my heart was breaking. You see, in SBS, during the second reading we summarize each paragraph in three to four words. The technique requires the words be in sequential order, which helps you truly ponder the passage before you attempt to condense it. For this part of the assignment, my paragraph title read: “has blemish - not come.” It was painful to write down. My heart broke for any person who happened to have a limb too long, it broke for the hunchback, and it broke because I interpreted that word “blemish” as one that could simultaneously describe and disqualify a person- even a person with a desire to serve the LORD. If God does not change, what does that imply for me?
I vividly pictured a person whose heart could only be completed by ministering on behalf of God, and I cried. I cried out of a place of confusion. From anxiety of my own insufficiency and a fear of rejection. Out of a recognition for my own blemishes, brokenness, and selfishness. Despite my own self-defeating tendencies, the God I am familiar with says to the blind and lame, “Come.” But to the Levitical Priesthood and the rest of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness, the honor of coming into the presence of the God “I AM,” was restricted to a select few.

Granted, some historical background context helped me better understand a few of these specifics, (i.e. it was not unheard of for Mesopotamian cultures to esteem mutilations; some neighboring peoples had rituals that included swords or objects to dismember oneself during acts of worship). Additional cultural background applied to the Mosaic Law demonstrates that the God of the Hebrews spoke into society in ways contrary to stipulations or ideals held by other nations of the time. But these historical facts, though directly correlating to that which had brought me to my knees questioning the very existence of God (much less His good and merciful character), did not bring complete reassurance.
Leviticus was written to impress upon the Israelites a solemn understanding of the infinite holiness of God and how they should live. The instructions were meticulous and severe when scrutinized from my 21st century worldview. But the result of searching out the multifaceted and timeless Being of the Bible known commonly as “Creator God” is that He is Perfect and thereby overqualified to answer a challenge made by anything created. Question His mercy, and find it extended in an insurmountable number of reckonings. Mercy? From the God of the Old Testament? Yes, and much more than we humans, firstly, give Him credit (as though we are capable of precise measurements/ omniscient clarity to begin with). Secondly, God demonstrates more mercy than people will ever extend to one another, which, for those with the humanist/enlightenment worldview, is an especially difficult belief to accept.

Question the God who can fully embody Holiness, Justice and Wrath, Mercy and Truth. Rather, consider all things according to the professed claim that One exists. Allow Him to prove Himself to the deepest place in you that wonders. When I came to the LORD with my questions, I was reminded that He cannot deny Himself- He is Immaculate and Self-Sustaining. Because of God’s love for us, I who had no right to question this All-Powerful God, was mercifully granted such a privilege. The same God who created the universe and the laws of science and time which it adheres to, worked within His creation. Then, He invited mankind into His holiness. People in the Old Testament had to have a priesthood appointed to seek forgiveness on their behalf. A head priest would enter a sacred place called the Holy of Holies in order to access the presence of YAHWEH. Even that priest was permitted entrance once a year… Until Jesus, the Ultimate High Priest. In one endeavor of entering the form of a fallen creation, Jesus Christ was able to atone for and redeem all mankind, extending to us the gift of grace. God changed everything, yet lost none of His Quintessence in His humble substitution. His intervention had no effect on His nature; the LORD remains the same.

“Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. At present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.
For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers…”
[Hebrews 2:8-11 ESV]

God remains the same throughout the Bible. In the New Testament, He accomplished the crown of all miracles to continue showing His relentless efforts at pursuing the heart of man. Time and time again throughout my study of the Scriptures, I have recognized a theme: God pursuing the heart of man- including my own. When I started the School of Biblical Studies with Youth With A Mission, I was enthusiastic about studying the Word of God. But soon into the program, I was conflicted with thoughts that I had come to the school and the LORD with half of a heart. I have been incredibly challenged with what it means to serve God with a whole heart. When I asked myself if I was delighting in the LORD (Psalm 37:4), I regretfully found that I had at some point become so overwhelmed with love for life and relationships and adventures and learning new things… the “desires of my heart” He promises to give. The source of my joy had shifted from delighting in the Giver of all things to taking pleasure solely in His gifts.

Early on in the school I had been asked, “What are you going to do with what you’re learning?” This question came full circle during my study of Ecclesiastes. Even if I’m pursuing knowledge, wisdom, a deepened understanding of scripture- in and of itself, it’s a mere striving after the wind. Chasing after the gift of knowledge, but missing the point of an intimate relationship with the One who knows all things. I know I will share my testimony and experiences of my life for the rest of it… and long to convey my story with depth- in a way that would count for something. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, the greatest depth I’ve ever encountered is the Word of God, but applying it to my life is what will allow me to see my Creator face to face, understand His heart, and love people like He does so well. What does it mean to love God with a whole heart and let Him pursue mine?

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
[Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV]

The Bible is the living and active Word of God. It testifies about His heart and provides timeless instructions for how one ought to live. It encompasses the power to renew our minds, even empowering us to cleave to an authority we intuitively reject. During life’s journey we must not be content with delighting in gifts alone because, in and of themselves, they reflect Someone greater- Someone relentless in His efforts to pursue the hearts of men.

(Watch my Video Testimony here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H-0myn1Sro)

Video Update

These past two months of studying the Bible has given me a lot to ponder and question. We usually study one book a week and sometimes it is overwhelming to be moving through Scripture so quickly. On the other hand, I have noticed that I have been quicker to recall passages because we are getting a big picture perspective. Here is a little glimpse at what insight I have been trying to apply to my life lately. There is so much more that has stood out to me, and even more to discover. Hope it brings a smile to your face and an encouragement to your heart!

Love always,
Kelsey Maxine

Alt for Norge - "Fighting for your Family"

It is fair to say that I will never be able to fully express my gratefulness

to the creators of Alt for Norge, Monster, TV Norge, O'Connor Casting, Producers, Directors, Journalists, Crew, Editors, [and Transcriptors I met in the end of June who got to know the cast better than anyone else: a special thank you ;)]

but let me try to begin with this:

Familie // Family // Familia

Takk for sist.

When I first began to explain Alt for Norge to people, I described it to be a "travel abroad reality program that was fine-tuned for people to better understand their Norwegian background." After participating, I have added to that perception in abundant ways. I cannot count all the blessings that my time in Norway gave to me. The show revealed to me that I have "several hundred biological relatives in Norway," and I think that the word "biological" is key... because the love and support I have received from beautiful Norwegian hearts across the nation (and world) has me actually believing that I have several thousand Norwegian relatives... and a few hundred of them are "biological." Alt for Norge was an experience different from any I have ever had, and the people I traveled with had a profound influence on how I look at life. For those of you who sat with me and shared your worldview, philosophies, and life experiences, tusen takk for personally investing in my understanding of Norway.

Creativity, in its essence, should inspire growth and an ability to perceive things in new ways.

And I applaud those who work so hard to do that through Alt for Norge.
What seems, from first glance, to be a "travel abroad reality program,” Alt for Norge is, in all actuality, a tool through which a team of intellectual and passionate people are instilling knowledge, identity, pride, and a number of other values to millions of people. It feels as though much of Norway has been inviting myself and our other dear friends from season six into your homes each Sunday night, and we consider that an honor. Tusen takk.

Together we have learned about some of the great heroes of Norway, important economic trades of the past and present, significant historical events, and, certainly most relevant to us all, how to prepare smalahove. Alt for Norge cultivates the desire to grasp our history so we are better equipped to work together in the future. This experience felt like a textbook of treasured information came to life before my very eyes, and I learned so much; I would love to see something like this in the United States! From what I have heard, the viewers appreciate this education and entire families consider it worthwhile entertainment. Skol to Monster, TV Norge, and the brilliant creators who have taken on this challenge to strengthen Norway’s unity, establish an affection for education, and teach people that families are precious and worth fighting for; and everyone can make that decision each day. All of us have this unfathomable opportunity to build relationships with one another, and choosing to love one another is the greatest gift we can ever give.

Love one another; fight for your family.

As I watched the episodes this fall and heard the perspectives of the other contestants, my understanding and empathy has developed. It means a lot to hear from others who watch the show that you have related to each one of us for particular reasons. You shared that you have cried, laughed, and bit your nails with us through the suspense. I applaud the crew and production team who went above and beyond to create an experience for each and every one of us: you continue to master the art of creativity. Not only do you see things in unique ways, but you use that gift to impart the ability to others.

This journey was an emotional rollercoaster for which I am both thankful and overwhelmed.... I have had a lot of great journal sessions- so thanks, AFN team! It is crazy how many emotions can be stirred while verbally-processing your past experiences, present thought processes, and future hopes and dreams. Many hidden hurts I have were exposed and I am glad to have the opportunity to address the parts of me that needed to find solace and healing. Thor Oreld, thank you for giving me the word "reconcile" in your most sincere manner in Reisadalen. Trust that tapping into the concept of fighting for your family has taught me an invaluable lesson, and I will do my best to remain a "good sport" in that "challenge" for the rest of my life.

Know that I am still chasing after the dream of meeting my "Big Norwegian Family." Since the filming ended, many of my Norwegian relatives and I have been able to email and enjoy a "Facebook Group." I am glad to hear little updates here and there from them and enjoy sharing with them what is new in my life. My siblings have enjoyed hearing about my trip, reading letters, looking at pictures, and have had a great time watching episodes- we all hope to visit Norway together and I have so many things I want to share with them! We have a new addition to the family to bring to Norway, as well! A big “Gratulerer” to my sister, Raina, and her husband Dan, on the arrival of their precious daughter Harper Rain, born 19 October. I am so proud to be a tante <3 and we decided to go with the affectionate nickname “Tia Kelsey.”

My sweet mom has been overjoyed to hear about my Norway adventure. Both she and my father have Norwegian heritage, and Mom actually studied at a Folk School called Trøndertun in 1978-79. Since coming home from Norway, I have been able to visit Mom three times in Minnesota. Another Alt for Norge outcome I am thankful for is that some of her old friends and classmates have reached out and reconnected with her. Tusen takk to everyone for your kind and compassionate hearts!

Gratulerer

As I previously mentioned, I anticipate that I will never be able to describe how thankful I am to those who made this experience a possibility, and I congratulate all of my co-competitors for participating in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

David Engen, You have a big heart and I am proud of you! Congratulations for giving your all and winning the whole thing! You gave so much advice and input and I learned a tremendous amount from you on this journey, thank you for everything <3

Hannah Tjoflat, You inspire me, and I appreciate your genuine love for others. You have a heart of gold. Thank you for reflecting Jesus in such an authentic way.

Taylor Randle, You have the most contagious laugh; thanks for coaching every one of us on how to stay “calm, cool, and collected.”

Quazakari Dechiara-Crillion, You have a brilliant mind. I liked getting to hear your thoughts, and it was fascinating to watch you grow on this trip. Vil du vaere vennen min?

Adam Tock, You connected with every person on the cast in a unique way that shows people they are respected and valued. You are my favorite explorer; thanks for taking me treasure hunting in every city we visited- even when once it meant finding a Burger King in Oslo.

Jake Uggerud, Sweet Jake, you are so much fun to be with and I admire your passion for Norway. You are so optimistic and have a fantastic ability to dream. Keep chasing those dreams!! I love your heart.

Tess Roholt, You are sweet and real and I loved the chances when I got to hear your heart on this adventure. Thanks for sharing your multifaceted self- your comical side and your depth. You are loved.

Scott Wallingford, You value family so much, it is beautiful hearing about how much you love your son and your sisters. Thanks for striving for success on this adventure. Also, This. Man. Can. Dance.

Joel Hilmo, You have an ability to lead people and make them feel at ease. You are a romantic, and I love the genuine heart behind your sweep-her-off-her-feet lines.

Sarah Jensen Giampapa, Oh hei, love! I clicked with you from day one and appreciate your say-it-as-it-is attitude. Thanks for opening up to me and letting me into your life.

Camille Humpherys, Sunshine girl, you have an ability to encourage others and push yourself and I respect you for looking for ways to give life and God your absolute everything! Let your heart grow a size every day, you are lovely.

Takk for praten!

Kelsey Maxine Tungseth

fra Averøy og Pennsylvania, Minnesota, og Colorado

"Amazing Grace"

Deltagerne tok seg en liten sangpause før kveldens konkurranse i Røros kirke. Singstars! (Se hele, dette er både fantastisk og helt eksklusivt :) )

Posted by Alt for Norge on Sunday, October 25, 2015

Something powerful comes over you when you sing from your heart.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear...
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
we have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
as long as life endures.

When we've been here ten thousand years...
bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
then when we've first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

Welcome, Harper Rain Scheid

Both namesake and nature rejoice in your birth,
Sweet liquid sunshine falls heaven to earth.
Delicate fingers and curious eyes,
Quivering chin with occasional cries.
You already know how to reach for your dreams,
And Mommy and Daddy will give you your wings.
So trust them to lead you and teach you to grow,
And come to your Tia if e'er they say, "No."
My dear, darling niece, when you don't understand,
I promise to listen and hold your sweet hand.
Your mom and your dad, they want only your best...
So flourish in wisdom: Obedience brings rest.
Now onward, explorer, and conquer the world,
Like mother, like daughter, inquisitive girl.

-For Harper Rain, born 19 October, 2015

Hola Mexico!

Just over four years ago I found myself attempting to “take a sip of water from a fire hydrant” as YWAM founder Loren Cunningham so affectionately puts it: I attended a six month program called Discipleship Training School (DTS).

Youth With A Mission had a profound influence on my life and introduced me to a world of intentional spiritual development. Our lecture phase topics included the Father Heart of God, Cross-Cultural Ministry, Spiritual Gifts, and an overview of Inductive Bible Study. For the mission field outreach portion of the school, my team partnered with the communities in Tijuana, Mexico, and San Pedro in the Dominican Republic. During my time in Tijuana, I was able to delve into a world of ministry that included feeding the homeless, volunteering at an orphanage, prayer walking in the Red Light District, building homes and outhouses, and tutoring at an afterschool jamboree called “Circulo Andante” (Spanish for “The Walking Circle”).

While staying at the YWAM Base in Tijuana, I was introduced to School of Biblical Studies (SBS). Youth With A Mission has over one thousand ministry centers scattered throughout the world, and each campus offers various programs. After a few years of dreaming and praying for the opportune time, I am delighted to share with you that I have been accepted to the bilingual SBS beginning September 2015. Pairing two of my greatest loves, the Word of God and the Spanish language, I will be studying for nine months at a campus that helped shape my vision for how I am to serve our Heavenly Father’s purposes.





I’m writing this letter to ask you to consider how you can join me in the journey. Prayer for increased discipline and growing attentiveness during my lectures would be so appreciated. I have been trying to learn Spanish for years, including three college level courses, but think that immersion at a bilingual base will really help me cross the threshold into conversational fluency. Studying Scripture in English and Spanish will strengthen the foundation I have built, and allow me to minister to a widespread group of peoples’ hearts. The School of Biblical Studies will take our class through the Bible five to six times, studying Hebrew and Greek, cultural relevancy, and what God’s big picture plan is.

If you are able, would you think about supporting me financially as I pursue what I believe God has called me to do?
See the "Mission Statement and Support" tab for giving. Thank you!!

Until the nets are full,
Kelsey Maxine Tungseth

Visiting the Tungset Family Farm

Earlier this month I was contacted by Ellen-Marie Pedersen-Gustad with Tidens Krav AS and asked some questions about the visit I took to my family farm with Alt For Norge in May. It was so nice for me to intentionally reflect on that special day, so I thought I would post the Q&A's here for you to read!

First, let me attach the beautiful script that I was able to read at the family farm:

Dear Kelsey,
Welcome to Tungset farm, the place where your family name originates!
You have roots in this area that go back to at least 1650. But the story about how this particular farm became a part of your family history, starts in the eastern part of Norway and the county Hedmark.

Around year 1800 the farmers in Hedmark experienced crop failures. Food was scarce, and many people suffered from the life threatening disease scurvy, due to lack of essential vitamins. For your four times great grandparents, the newly-wed couple Jacob Estensen Sæter and Marit Toresdatter Nøren, the situation was hard. They did not have a farm of their own. The lack of resources and possibilities led them across the country in hope of a better life. They settled here in the coastal municipality Averøy, where you are now. Here Jacob got a job as a shoemaker. But in spite of this, their living conditions didn't improve much. In 1818 Marit gave birth to a little baby girl, your three times great grandmother Tørri. But the blessing of a new family member was followed by the responsibility of a hungry mouth to feed. Their poverty forced Marit and Jacob to make a desperate decision: to give away, or more likely sell, their two year old daughter to another couple in hope of a better life for the child. Then they moved again.

Luckily little Tørri came to a good and caring home. Her new parents were Knut Andersen and Gunhild Frantsdatter who lived here at Tungset. They had lost their only son from chicken pox ten years earlier and were glad to welcome a child to the farm. Tørri was treated well. When she married your three times great grandfather Paul in 1838, they inherited the farm and took its name as their own. Paul and Tørri raised seven children here at Tungset, among them your great great grandfather Peder Olaus who was born here in 1853. As it was the oldest son Elling who was next in line to inherit the farm, your great great grandfather decided to seek his fortune in the nearest city Kristiansund.

In the latter part of the 19th century Kristiansund was thriving. The town was flourishing because of the trade with salted and dried cod, the clipfish. Stories of wealth and enormous possibilities attracted a lot of people and the number of citizens doubled in just a few years. As Peder Olaus reached his twenties he became part of the wave, hoping to succeed in this growing city of dreams.
In 1875 Peder rented a room in the main street and worked as a carpenter. He soon met the love of his life, your great great grandmother Karoline Setnes who had moved to Kristiansund with her parents. They married and started a family.
In the beginning of the 1880s Peder was an established shopkeeper and a trader. His shop sold groceries and clothes. By now he also had five children to support, and more were on their way. But as hard as he tried, Peder was unfortunately among the persons who did not succeed in Kristiansund during these golden years. His business went under and the growing family struggled to make ends meet. Faced with these difficulties, Peder had to make a tough decision. Again he was tempted to seek his fortune away from home, but this time the leap of faith was even bigger; America.

Then came 1893, the year that changed the family´s life forever. In September Karoline gave birth to their eight child. Only one month later, the 11th of October, Peder left for the land of opportunities – alone. In order to provide for his beloved wife and children he decided to embark on the long journey, hoping that he would soon be able to send for his dear ones and bring them over to a better life. Back home Karoline was now alone with low income, seven children and a newborn baby. Some long fall- and winter months passed. The family was eagerly awaiting news from Peder Olaus arrival in America. And finally, the 2nd of May 1894, Karoline could take her kids – among them your great grandfather Anton – and leave Kristiansund for Minnesota. They never returned.
Peder Olaus and his family have several hundred biological relatives in Norway. That means that you have a big Norwegian family looking forward to meeting you – and many of them still live here in Averøy!

Peder Olaus, my great great grandfather (tippoldefar) that emigrated and his wife Henrikke Caroline Gurine Pedersdatter Tungset

Additional Ponderings

My first name, Kelsey, means "From the Isles," and I'd always thought it to be appropriate: I tend to float around in my own little world and therefore gravitate towards the island life mentality, (if not also residing on an actual island). Sometimes that can be painful, because I can feel rather isolated or scared to share my life with people- even close friends and family. As I came to this realization about myself, I was thrilled to discover a new way to identify with the meaning of my name...

Since coming home and reminiscing on my trip to Norway, I have read more about Averøy and learned that the famous Atlantic Ocean Road connects Averøya - the MAIN ISLAND - and the smaller, surrounding islands! Driving across this famous highway will always be a reminder of the enriched idea of who I am, where I've been, and from where I come. This trip was essential for me understanding my identity in so many ways, and I find this particular detail quite significant.

Q&A by Tidens Krav AS

How was it to come to Averøy? Describe your feelings on the trip out there.
Coming to Averøy had extreme significance for me. The exact city was unknown to me before my adventure with Alt for Norge, and on the drive, I was aching to see things for myself. We drove alongside fjords and jagged mountains, then we came to the Atlantic Ocean Road and I was stunned by the beauty and creativity of the road. I had so many questions racing through my mind as I admired each turn and change in height we took with the highway: What will this place look like? What did my ancestors appreciate about Averøy? How could they bear to leave? How were their living conditions? Who and where are my modern day relatives? Will I find a piece of myself through this journey after all?


What did you think when you saw the farm for the first time? What went through your head?
Recalling seeing the farm for the first time still brings tears to my eyes. The first building that I saw was a barn on the lower edge of the property. Immediately I had flashbacks of my childhood and wonderful memories of exploring the lofts, grooming my horse, and shooting bow and arrow against the outside walls. When I walked across the bridge and up the driveway, I was amazed at how much Tungset farm resembled the home where my family had lived before the tragedy. I wondered if some magnetic pull to our family's farmstead was attributed to our Norwegian roots in Averøy.


What was it like to sit on your ancestor's village and read the family history?
Sitting in the village of my ancestors and reading the family history was extremely surreal. My brothers and sister and I have considered the Tungset farm a legend since we were children... but we were missing some information! I am incredibly thankful to the geneologists and relatives who worked together to snap the missing puzzle pieces into place. As I read every name, date, and detail, I felt like there had been holes or wounds in my heart that were being filled and healed. So much of the story felt intimate and applicable to my life! It is very symbolic to me that this type of healing came while I was sitting in Averøy, on the steps of Tungset Gard, and it is with my whole heart that I can say I now embody the pride of my family's journey and am honored to better know our history.


What do you think about the farm and the nature around it?
The farm property immediately felt like home to me. As I gazed to the edge of the property, I felt protected by the forest and invited by the meadow. I imagined running around with my siblings and cousins and wondered if my ancestors had likewise played in this yard. It didn't take long for me to wish I could raise my own family in this place. The nature around the Tungset farm inspired me: flowers kissed the hill below the house, a young maple tree grew next to the barn, and a glimpse of the water on the horizon beckoned with the encouragement to seek adventure.


What kind of relationship have you got to Averøy and Norway after this visit?
My time in Averøy and Norway so helped me solidify parts of my identity that felt unanswered. Because of the lines of communication that were opened, I better understand Norwegian traditions, historical facts, and philosophies. My relationship now with Averøy and Norway is just getting started! I still feel like a young child who has much to learn, but I am thrilled to be on the right track.


Do you feel more or less Norwegian after this experience?
Before this experience, I thought "Alt for Norge" was a phrase that united and inspired cameraderie between Norwegians. The journey I took is in many ways attributed to the people I met in Norway who gave me a pride in the very concept of Alt for Norge that is so much deeper and truer. Tusen takk! After this experience, I feel that I have a firmer foundation of what it means to be Norwegian. I plan to continue building and strengthening my Norwegian identity and am honored to be able to pass down what I have learned to future generations.

Takk for sist!

Watch Alt For Norge on TV Norge Sunday nights at 20:00

Read more here:
http://www.pressreader.com/norway/tidens-krav/20151003/282003261242899/TextView
http://www.tk.no/nyheter/averoy/tv-serie/et-sar-i-hjertet-er-helbredet/s/5-51-117803

Alt For Norge VG Article

Earlier this year, I was given the honor and privilege of traveling to Norway to participate on Alt for Norge. When reading about the show, I understood it to be a wholesome, family-friendly travel abroad program where I would be intentionally taught about Norwegian values, traditions, philosophies, and language- the bonus was that parts of it would be tailored just for me so I could understand my family's place in all of those things. Alt For Norge is designed to connect Norwegian-Americans with their Norwegian heritage and connect them to modern day relatives.

Because of the circumstancing surrounding the tragedy of my father's death, I was asked to share my story with a newspaper in Norway. It was handled with extreme sensitivity by the production company, Monster, Inc. and the magazine, VG. They wanted me to be able to tell my perspective in its entirety before the show aired in August. My warmest thanks to Ingvill Dybfest Dahl for hearing my heart and communicating my story with such delicate respect, Tusen takk.

I have included a broad translation of the article below, and hope it continues to minister and call forth hope in the lives of many. God bless!

"All for Norway" - participant lost everything after shooting drama
** The mother shot her father ** Abused Drugs ** Raised by her sister

HAPPY IN LIFE: Kelsey Tungseth has not had it easy, but says she is full of hope. She wants to share her experience as a consolation for others affected by mental illness. Here she is pictured on Linnerud in Oslo Monday. Photo: HELGE MIKALSEN, VG

After a personal tragedy and several difficult years, Kelsey Tungseth (27) no longer feels like an orphan. She is searching for her roots in Norway.
- I want to live with both wings and roots. And I have wings, says Kelsey Tungseth to VG.

It's a little over a day since she arrived in Norway, the country genes coming from both sides of the family.
- When I was growing up we made waffles to party, ate rømmegrøt on Christmas Eve and celebrated on 17 May in the church, tells the young American, and continues quietly:
- But now all my grandparents died, and my parents are not here, so this is my attempt to find the roots I lack. I hope it becomes a sort of reunion with a part of me I've lost.


Tungseth is here to take part in "All for Norway": Reality series on TVNorge with Henriette Bruusgaard as presenter where Norwegian Americans compete on friendly and humorous view of coming in close contact with their Norwegian heritage and meeting their Norwegian relatives.
But the road that has led Kelsey here, is far from the only merry.
- My parents met each other in the psychiatric ward. My mother was bipolar and my father worked as a nurse. But they later married and had four children together, she says.

NEW PARTICIPANTS: "All for Norway" The participants in Season Six's rear, from left: Joel Hilmo, Camille Humphery, Jacob Uggerud, Hannah Tjoflat, Quanzakari Dechiara-Crillon, and Adam Tock. Front from left Scott Wallingford, Sarah Jensen-Giampapa, Taylor Randle, Terese Roholte, Kelsey Tungseth, and David Engen. Front presenter Henriette Bruusgaard. Photo: TVNORGE

According to Kelsey, the two daughters and twin sons were very proud of her father while growing up in Pennsylvania. He worked long hours as a carpenter, and sacrificed gladly his lunch break if it meant that he could follow up on the children choir concert or football game.

Bipolar disorder
- He was a family man. Mom was too, but she was not always healthy, says 27-year-old.
The children could wake to her mother played music and served them waffles with ice cream some days, and other days it was just quiet in the house, they prepared themselves for school, ate by themself, went to school and found her mother in bed still when they came home again.
- It is fascinating how children can adapt to situations they think is normal for everyone. It seemed not unusual for us, says Tungseth.
- I was 15 when they told me that my mom had bipolar disorder. At the time I was still a dramatic teenager myself, who did not understand what it meant that she had a chemical imbalance in the brain that gave her powerful mood swings.
When Kelsey was in her late teens parents decided to move to Minnesota, where they both came from. The move coincided with her mother lost her sister, who was also her best friend. At the same time had to double amputate his mother's father leg.
Also Kelsey uncle, a priest, has talked openly in church and local media about several of her sister's painful experiences.

Murder
- All of these changes together had been difficult even for a stable person, and my mother was not always stable. The move caused a great strain for her, and July 22, 2006 she snapped, says Kelsey and take a deep breath before she continued:
- She had created an idea in her head, and shot and killed my father.
Tungseth was 18 years old when the killing happened on the farm they lived on in Fergus Falls. She tells how she and her two years younger twin brothers sold goods at a market when she saw a friend come running over the area crying.
Her friend was sheriff daughter. Together they drove into the city and the police station. At arriving the sheriff met them. He too was crying. That morning he had trained with Kelsey's father at the local YMCA Center.
- He said "There is no easy way to say this: Your father is dead." When asked what had happened, he cried, "Your mother killed him." I remember that I was completely numb. So I called our sister who studied three hours away and asked if she could come.

Overall siblings
They alerted other family members and Raina drove to Fergus Falls with some of them.
- From that moment was Raina our guardian angel. My aunt told me that on the drive Raina already talked about how we needed a house, a place where we four siblings could stay together, says Tungseth in a cracking voice.
Sister Raina now has a master's degree in social work from Colombia. At this time she was 22 years old and studied psychology in Minneapolis.
- She was just 22 years and knew instantly what she should do. She has been the family rock since nine years ago, says Kelsey with a smile.
Parents liked to ride motorcycles and had been prescient enough to change their will and make eldest daughter of guardian of younger siblings as soon as she turned 18. They wanted their children to be kept together if something should happen to them.

Rusmisbruk - How did you handle the tragedy?
- I handled it very poorly, says Kelsey and laugh through eyes shining.
- For two years I abused alcohol and drugs, and in another year I continued to experiment with drugs. I looked at it as an escape route. Then there was little in waves. I went to a new place and trying something new, started again and tried something new. I fled a long time.
But in 2009, took his sister Kelsey on a journey in Southeast Asia. Where they worked five weeks in a voluntary program to help inmates women and their children in Nepal's prisons, to ensure the children schooling and in some cases a new home. Then they traveled to Thailand, Malaysia and Cambodia.
- The experience was crucial in shaping me as I am today. The experience with Raina taught me so much about the small, practical things, like setting up budgets and planning. I learned many ways to become an adult.

SIBLINGS LOVE: The four siblings Tungseth on Raina's wedding day. From left: Anton Peter, Raina Leigh, Kelsey Maxine and Nicolai Paul. Photo: PRIVATE

Found God
- I grew up in a Christian home, but it felt very distant to me when growing up. But in 2010, after I had traveled around a year, I looked up at the stars one night and heard God's voice say "I love you, I have adopted you into my family," says Norwegian American.
She cried then.
When she arrived returned Kelsey to a Christian, she joined missionary charity Youth With a Mission (YWAM), where she took several courses in order to help others.
- I missed the idea of an overall family. And from that moment I knew that I needed someone to lean on. I think I'm supposed to live with an authority figure who helps me to make wise choices, and with a group I can be friends with - and it gave me YWAM.

Now she travels as often as she is able, she studied comparative politics and religion, and is finishing a degree in media studies in May. Tungseth describes herself as full of hope.
- Resistance creates steadfastness, persistence gives character, and character creates hope. The only consolation is that God has given me comfort I now want to share with others, she says with enthusiasm in her voice and continues:

- I am glad that you write about this, for mental illness has long been swept under the carpet or kept silent in death. Many people feel confused or ashamed. But even when things fall together for a while, there is hope!

- I broke so many nice things in my life, but God has helped me to create a mosaic of it.

Forgave Her Mother
In recent years she has also managed to rebuild the relationship with the mother, who in May 2007 was sentenced to 28 years in prison. 18 of them must be atoned for, according to local newspaper Fergus Falls Journal.
- I was not talking to her for a couple of years. We needed time. But after what I experienced in 2010, I realized that part of the process of forgive myself, forgive mom, says Kelsey.
When grandfather was dying in the hospital, she received a phone call from her mother in his room.
- He wanted me to forgive her, and I had avoided talking about it, but when I took the phone and said, "Hi mom, this is Kelsey. I will just say that I love you and I forgive you." Sometimes you have to decide something many times before it sinks in. But as I said the words out loud, I felt a part of me had already been healed for a while.
Approximately once a year Kelsey visits her mother in prison, where she has a doctor's supervision and psychiatrist, engages in church and gets an education, according to her daughter. During the trial, her mother shared that for 26 years had struggled with mental illness. In 2025, she will be considered for released under supervision.

Avoids Ski
Now living siblings under two hours away from each other around Denver, Colorado, and has good contact. But despite the fact that she lives in Colorado, including renowned for skiing, not Kelsey admits to venture out skiing no more than about once a year.
- My siblings mine like it, but I'm a wimp when it comes to cold. But here in Norway I am ready to try everything we are thrust into with passion!

- I do not want that mental illness should define what happened to my family. It is so important for me, not only to learn more about Norway, but to learn about my ancestors. To find out more about my roots is a tremendous blessing. I do not feel orphaned anymore!

See original article here: http://www.vg.no/rampelys/tv/tvnorge/alt-for-norge-deltaker-mistet-alt-etter-skytedrama/a/23442305/ AAAND here is a clip of me in one of my MANY "hometowns:"




Before this experience, I thought "Alt for Norge" to be a phrase that united and inspired cameraderie between Norwegians. The journey I took is in innumerable attributed to the people I met in Norway who gave me a pride in the very concept of Alt for Norge that is so much deeper and truer. Tusen takk! After this experience, I feel that I have a firmer foundation of what it means to be Norwegian, and I plan to continue building and strengthening my Norwegian identity. I am honored to be able to pass down what I have learned to future generations. Warmest regards!

Graduation!

When I landed in Colorado in the spring of 2012, I anticipated staying for a few months and returning to the mission field. As you will see from my newsletters, that was not God's plan for me. I felt called to strengthen my discipline of commitment (or lack thereof), so I jumped into life in Colorado Springs. I joined the family of Alethia church, worked at Flying Horse Country Club, and completed my Associate's Degree at Pikes Peak Community College.

Much of the peace of mind I had in the education world is thanks to the grounding foundation I developed while attending the School of Biblical Foundations and Missions (SBFM) with Youth With A Mission. The experience was exceptionally valuable: weekly assignments were given to strengthen skills in communication and teaching and develop perspective and critical thinking from a Biblical Christian worldview. The coursework was challenging and time consuming, but over the last few years as I sat through my lectures in college, I was encouraged that I knew why I believe what I believe, and I had a confidence to share my beliefs inside and outside the classroom.

Reading through my old newsletters, I found this, and I praise God for the tools he gave me before asking me to stay put for a while:

The first six weeks have focused on topics like Bible Overview, State of the World, Basic Christian Doctrine, and Apologetics. With each day, I feel more prepared to logically defend my faith in Jesus Christ ...More importantly, it has given me a longing for discipline and correction; my soul and mind are being transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Thank you to everyone who has walked so graciously through my life with me. Your prayers and edification has attributed to a walking miracle, and I am indebted to your love.

Love,
Kelsey Maxine