The Lutheran Layman

Fall 2020

Sharing the Gospel with Millions Through the SENT Initiative

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Take a Thailand Trek. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Nurturing Your Faith. . . . . . . . . . . 9-10 The Hopeful Neighborhood. . . . . . . 11 #HopeAbounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Advent Devotions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Changing Lives Globally. . . . . 20-21 LHM Learn’s Impact. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Lutheran Hour Ministries 660 Mason Ridge Center Drive St. Louis, Missouri 63141-8557

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Love Worth Living For

by REV. DR. MICHAEL ZEIGLER, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour

What do I have that’s worth living for?

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asked myself that question at 20 years old.

Suppose you and I adopted that agape love I was serving in the Air Force, preparing for as our lifetime goal. To view ourselves as sent two weeks of combat survival training. Our

by God, to love others as we are loved by Him. training role would be crew members who were What would that look like? How would that shot down behind enemy lines, had crashgoal shape your life? landed, and were on the run. We had to survive, For members of the Lutheran Hour Ministries evade, and escape. family, it might include proclaiming the Gospel As I considered the lack of food, lack of sleep, on radio and in other ways. It would mean and other deprivations, I wondered how I would carrying the love of Jesus to other generations respond if this were a real-life situation. How here at home, people who didn’t grow up in the would I respond as a prisoner of war, isolated, church but are loved by Jesus, nonetheless. It tortured, tempted to give in? That prompted the would look like our ministry staff and volunteers bigger question: What do I have that would be in Africa and Asia and other continents, who worth living for under those circumstances? serve their native countries by demonstrating I thought about Amy, a girl I had known since God’s love in word and deed. It might look like childhood. I had never asked her out on a date, our Ambassadors and other volunteers in North but as I prepared for survival training, I imagined America, who help their congregations proclaim myself married to her, maybe having a family the Gospel to their hometowns. together. She would be worth living for.

Advent reminds us of history’s Certain kinds of love are temporary. greatest expression of agape love. … the one Consider affection. For example, I felt Love-in-Person took the form of a thing worth baby boy, the Messiah, who entered affection for my first-grade teacher.

But affection is rooted in proximity, living for—to our broken world. Fully God and fully so when you’re not near that person, love and be man, He would give His life for us, the the affection fades. Then we have people God loves so dearly. Jesus is loved as you agape in action. romantic love. Think about the first person you were attracted to. You were After I finished combat survival are loved. overcome with enchantment. But how training, I got up the guts to ask Amy long did it last? out on a date. Two years later, we were married.

But there’s another kind of love, which derives And for the last 19 years, we’ve seen Jesus from God alone. It stands the test of time. The channel His love through us, in us, and often Greek word is agape, which refers to God’s love despite us. This Advent season, I pray that you for us and our love for others in response. It experience the joy of being loved by God and surpasses emotion. It isn’t fleeting. It’s the sort so become a channel, a conduit of God’s love. of love that would propel someone to lay down That’s the one thing worth living for—to love their life for someone else. and be loved as you are loved. =

Vol. 91, No. 4 Fall 2020 Chad Fix, Editor

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Andrea Thompson, Layout

Subscription: $5. Printed quarterly. Send color photos for use. Photos sent to the paper may not be returned. Lutheran Hour Ministries, The Lutheran Hour, Bringing Christ to the Nations, BCTN, This is the Life, Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones, Esta Es La Vida, Para el Camino, THRED, and The Hoffmann Society are ® registered marks, or SM service marks. The Puzzle Club is a service mark and trademark of Int’l LLL. All rights reserved, 2020 Int’l LLL.

LHM Response Center: 1-800-876-9880

2 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church

Beth was recently enrolled in the Bible Correspondence Courses hosted by LHM–Ethiopia.

The courses allowed her to grow closer to God, and she is now reading her Bible often, which was difficult for her before. She says the courses changed her life, and she is thankful for the lessons and the LHM staff.

Because of your support, we can continue to encourage people like Beth.

Thank You! LHM.ORG

MINISTRY BY THE NUMBERS

2020

2015

51 MILLION 136 MILLION+

Sharing the Gospel with Millions Through the SENT Initiative

People Reached with the Gospel Globally Every Week

60+

50+

Countries Reached by Ministry

968,086

400,000

by CHAD FIX n 1917, 12 laypeople gathered in Milwaukee to support the church in word and deed and formed what is known today as Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM). These 12 founders likely could not have imagined all that God had in mind for the work of their hands or the profound impact their decisions would have around the world for the next 100 years and counting. The beautiful part is not that these 12 laypeople were called to action, but rather they diligently acted when the world and the devil sought to distract.

Since that formation, LHM has been sowing seeds of biblically inspired hope, love, and transformation throughout our communities and around the world, and we know our work is still FAR from complete.

“If God could work through those 12 laypeople to achieve such incredible Gospel impact over the next century, I started to imagine what could be done not with 12, but with tens of thousands of called, equipped, and SENT laypeople, driving forward in faithful service to make the Gospel known to the billions of people around the world who are still waiting to hear it,” says LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz.

In 2015, LHM took a bold step to expand Gospel proclamation efforts by launching the SENT Initiative. Fueled by a $750,000 grant from The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation, LHM set forth in our calling to go out into the world and grow, nurture, and expand the Body of Christ. As an expansive, holistic, multilayered plan to answer the pressing challenges and realities of the 21st century, the SENT

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Annual Responses to Outreach Efforts Initiative brought greater vision, clarity, and definition to the work LHM was already doing.

“We said yes to leading the SENT Initiative because we believed it was the answer to some of the hardest challenges around sharing the hope of Christ with those who desperately need it,” says Jim and Vickie Dankenbring, co-chairs of the National Leadership Council for SENT. “As we looked around at the world, we acknowledged that our children and grandchildren live in a world of skepticism.

This skepticism causes uncertainty about the relevance of the church and, for many, uncertainty about there even being a God. This is what gave us resolve to accomplish the goals needed for SENT. And we knew we were not alone. We are members of the priesthood of all believers. When we stand together in purpose, God will do amazing things in this world.”

To create the greatest impact for friends, families, churches, communities, and the world, LHM focused ministry efforts through SENT on four key areas:

57,417

41,500

Annual Referrals to Churches and Christian Communities

121,771

111,325

(cumulative through 2015)

(annual for FY20)

People Trained in Sharing their Faith

59,357

42,500

New Bible Correspondence Course Students Enrolled Annually Around the World

1 MILLION

1,031,796

Listeners to The Lutheran Hour® Each Week

1,813

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Energizing, Equipping, and Engaging Laity for Outreach

1,600

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Growing God’s Kingdom through Expanded Media Outreach

North American Stations Airing The Lutheran Hour

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Bringing the Gospel to the Unreached Around the World

15,000

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Engaging Communities in the Digital Mission Field

People Connected with Christian Communities Annually

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17,415

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 3

Sharing the Gospel … continued from previous page Every person more exciting or worthy of our financial support contributed to the than an organization whose goal is to tell more people about Jesus.” success of SENT, and “We realize that no one person or every gift made a difference organization can reach the world’s entire unreached population on its own—and in sharing the Gospel around that’s why it has been so important to be able the world. Each gift allowed to walk side-by-side with people like you to the mission and ministry of spread the Good News of salvation and eternal life through Jesus,” says Buchholz. “God has Lutheran Hour Ministries to shown that He can do more through people like make an exponential you and me than we could ever imagine—if we only allow ourselves to go where He is sending us.” impact!

By implementing these strategies, LHM established a goal of expanding our weekly Gospel reach from 51 million in 2015 to 108 million by 2020. However, through the grace of God and the dedicated efforts of staff, volunteers, and donors, we quickly surpassed that initial goal! Today, we are reaching more than 136 million people each week with the Good News of the Gospel.

“LHM has been given tools, technology, and partners with which they can work,” says Jack Kidwell, former Int’l LLL president and longtime LHM volunteer leader who served as cochair of the Upper Midwest Regional Leadership Team for SENT. “By following the Lord’s call, they can increase the impact of their work many times over. These impacts are more than compelling stories; they are eternal changes in people’s hearts and lives through Jesus Christ.”

“There is a dire need today for evangelism, and we are happy to be doing our part to help spread the Gospel through LHM,” says Gene Partlow, cochair of the Atlantic Coast Regional Leadership Team for SENT. “SENT is such a great reminder that we are all called to participate in the missio

Much has been accomplished to the glory of God through the SENT Initiative 4 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

Dei—that eternal purpose of God to draw all people to Him. It’s a tremendous blessing to have the support of an organization that helps us share Jesus with others.”

The funding aspect of SENT was quietly launched in 2015 with a goal to raise $242 million by the year 2020 in support of this bold plan for sharing the Gospel far and wide. It is with gratitude to God, and deep appreciation to the more than 130 volunteer leaders of SENT and the multitude of people who stepped forward to donate to this effort, that The LHM Foundation’s initial $750,000 investment paved the way for exceeding this funding goal and raising more than $264 million through this initiative!

“Whenever I get a piece of mail or see something online, there’s always a story attached of real people who have been impacted by the gifts that we are giving,” says Jan Wendorf, an LHM Board member throughout SENT who served on the initiative’s Upper Midwest Regional Leadership Team. “These are lives that have been saved for eternity. I don’t think there is anything

We have all been SENT to fulfill God’s mission—the Body of Christ working as one to touch lost and hurting souls. From laypeople who have supported LHM for decades to church workers, and from pastors to the thousands of individuals who have been introduced to LHM’s work through SENT, you are Christ’s followers whose heart and commitment to ministry inspire and motivate everyone at LHM. As we come to the end of the SENT Initiative and celebrate its success, the world is facing new challenges. Therefore, the need for the hope and love of Jesus Christ is even greater than when SENT began five years ago. LHM is prepared to once again step up NOW because God has truly called us to share these wonderful gifts that He has given us during uncertain times.

“I hope you are humbled to see how God uses our talents and treasures to make His Gospel known,” says Buchholz. “Thank you again for your prayers, your volunteer service, and your financial support of the SENT Initiative to reach millions of lost and hurting people with Christ’s message of hope. Together, we are SENT!”

We have all been SENT to fulfill God’s mission …

2016

2017

2018

Touching Lives with the Gospel Through SENT While the large numbers illustrate the depth and enormous impact of what God has accomplished through the SENT Initiative around the world, the fruit of our ministry efforts is really about the individual people being reached. Here are just a few examples of individuals whose lives have been changed by the Gospel due to the generous support from people like you.

“I found light in The Lutheran Hour sermons while listening at all hours of “… His plan is many sleepless nights,” says John, a college bringing me student struggling with loneliness after his far more riches girlfriend left him.

“Eventually God walked than I could ever me out of my darkness, and I regained the hope to see by love of my life and was able to move away my own design.” from my addiction to pornography. God truly used The Lutheran Hour as a tool to change my life, and His plan is bringing me far more riches than I could ever hope to see by my own design.”

Angalia lives in Nairobi, Kenya. Like too many women there, she turned to prostitution to survive. To her dismay, that way of life failed to provide sufficient income. Sadder yet, her choices left her feeling too guilty to step through the doors of a church, where she might find help to turn her life around. “One day, a friend invited me to a fellowship activity led by LHM–Kenya ministry staff,” says Angalia. “Next, I participated in Reaching Rahab, an LHM program which helps women like me escape prostitution through vocational training. I also completed LHM’s Bible Correspondence Courses and turned away from prostitution and toward the Savior. I continue to grow in my faith, “… God by His grace has saved and I am happy that God by His grace and transformed my life.” has saved and transformed my life.” see next page

Celebrating the Success of SENT “God has truly done amazing things through the SENT Initiative.”

Nearly 300 volunteers, staff, and donors participated in a virtual event on Oct. 18 to celebrate the highlights and successes of the SENT Initiative. In addition to celebrating the unveiling of SENT’s ministry impact and financial results, attendees heard from an international director whose ministry was launched because of the initiative; listened to Jim and Vickie Dankenbring, co-chairs of the National Leadership Council for SENT, provide touching personal reflections from their involvement; and watched an impact video that illustrated the tremendous impact of sharing the Gospel around the world.

The virtual SENT Celebration also included a special presentation

by LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz. He unveiled a piece of artwork, commissioned by the Center for Liturgical Art at

Concordia University, Nebraska, in honor of the SENT Initiative. This piece will be displayed at the LHM headquarters as a reminder of all that was accomplished through the SENT Initiative to share the Gospel far and wide.

“God has truly done amazing things through the SENT Initiative,” said the Dankenbrings. “To name just a few: the weekly Gospel reach nearly tripled; five new mission fields opened; a partnership with SAT-7 launched new Christian satellite TV programming in the Middle East and North Africa; and a distance learning system called LHM Learn equipped believers through courses in five faithstrengthening categories. These accomplishments do not end with SENT; their effects are far-reaching and will continue for years to come.

In fact, God is just getting started!”

Highlights Include: • Increased weekly Gospel reach to more than 136 million • Opened five new mission fields • Established and conducted a three-year research partnership with Barna Group

2019

2020

• Awarded the Evangelism Resource of the Year by Outreach Magazine for the Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age monograph • Launched several digital engagement platforms around the world • Aired The Lutheran Hour on several new media platforms • Recruited more than 130 volunteer leaders, across six regions The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 5

Sharing the Gospel … continued from previous page “I was eager to learn more, so I am now taking LHM’s Bible courses and reading my digital Bible …”

“I felt an emptiness in my heart and started feeling like life had no meaning,” says Soumia, one of more than 500,000 followers of an LHM Facebook page in the Middle East and North Africa. “I heard about LHM on the radio and then found their Facebook page and was inspired by a video about how to cure worry, so I sent a message to their staff. Over several months, they shared the Gospel with me and explained what Jesus had done. I was eager to learn more, so I am now taking LHM’s Bible courses and reading my digital Bible while I look for a church near my home.”

As a congregational challenge, the pastors at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kennewick, Washington, suggested a year-long journey for members to work through several LHM Learn courses. About 70 members gathered in small groups to work their way through the courses together. “We found the LHM Learn courses to be simple, clear, and easy to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy,” says Rev. Andrew Noble. “They felt less like studies and more like guides to

dig deeper into God’s Word and follow Christ in our everyday lives. Our members also liked that the courses show how God can use all of us to share the Gospel. Several members have come up to me before worship on Sunday with excitement in their voices saying, ‘Pastor, guess what!? I actually had a spiritual conversation with someone.’ And then they would tell me all about the experience.

I feel like these courses have equipped and encouraged our members to live out their faith more intentionally and confidently.”

A mother of four and a grandmother of two, Gaew lives in Bangkok, Thailand, and spends much of her life caring for others.

Oftentimes, her life leaves her feeling drained and discouraged. “One afternoon, I turned

“… these courses have equipped and encouraged our members to live out their faith more intentionally and confidently.”

“… the program offered something even more precious: encouragement in my hour of need.”

on my radio and heard Home for Love, one of LHM’s radio broadcasts in Thailand,” says Gaew. “The content variety drew me in, yet the program offered something even more precious: encouragement in my hour of need.

I contacted the LHM ministry center to receive a free Bible Correspondence Course that I heard about on the air. The studies ignited such happiness in my heart that I believe the Lord used them to provide His leading in my life.

My life is not chaos like before. I know God and trust in Him, so I’m happy now.” Ministry staff also introduced Gaew to a local congregation, where she could attend services and receive spiritual nourishment. Today, her faith is growing stronger. She continues her Bible Correspondence Courses and craves to know the Lord better—and desires Him to bring her family members to faith in Jesus, too. = Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of LHM.

Give Back This Holiday Season by Paying It Forward by PAUL SCHREIBER

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The idea is to simply pay it forward— to share some small blessing with someone else.

6 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

f ever there was a good year to be spreading some holiday cheer, this is it! From now until the end of December, the Men’s NetWork is encouraging everyone to give back by paying it forward.

Your gesture doesn’t have to be dramatic or overly planned. In fact, something spontaneous and on the spot works just fine. The idea is to simply pay it forward—to share some small blessing with someone else. For sure, 2020 has been a wild ride, but we still have much to be thankful for. Giving back during the holidays encourages others. It points—by your small sacrifice—to what God has done for us in Jesus, and it tells someone they are worth your time.

It’s easy, too. You can buy someone a coffee and donut; pass along a bag of non-perishable groceries to a homeless person; or tip the teenager at the drive-thru window— passing along a copy of LHM’s Advent devotions, God with Us, for good measure. Then again, you might want to drop off a pie or some baked treats to a mom who’s got her hands full with kids doing school at home.

And speaking of home, there are things you can do there as well. You can leave a copy of LHM’s 30 Days of Household Devotions ($1 each at shoplhm.org) at

your front door, with a brief, but cheery note for those making a drop-off: the UPS, Amazon, or FedEx driver; the grocery store delivery person; or the driver bringing the pizzas. Why not put a copy in your mailbox with a note for your mail-person, too?

As you can see, it doesn’t take much to put a smile on someone’s face. A quick act of generosity will do the trick. And let’s not forget those time-tested favorites that can bless your neighbors in need: raking leaves, shoveling snow, cleaning gutters, running errands, scraping ice off of frozen cars.

To join in paying it forward this holiday season, go to lhm.org/givesback for creative ideas on giving back. You can also download and print “leave-behind” cards to pass along. After you’ve done your good deed for 2020, let us know. We’d like to send you a hat or a cap for you to remember how good it felt to brighten someone’s day during the 2020 holidays. = Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.

SENT Forward … Because of You!

by KURT BUCHHOLZ, President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries

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henever you finish a large-scale effort like the SENT Initiative, there is something interesting that always seems to happen. While people are excited to hear about the initiative and celebrate all that it has accomplished, they are even more curious to learn what is ahead.

The conversation inevitably starts with Lutheran Hour Ministries’ coverage on a world map. While more countries are colored in and more people are hearing the Gospel through LHM than ever before, there is still more work to do. I am going to make you the promise that as we end SENT, we are not taking our foot off the gas pedal. If we learned one thing over the last five years, it is that God expects us to be bold and to drive forward. Every time we thought maybe we should slow down, it was at that moment that God opened three more doors, a window, and a skylight and said, “go, go, go!” It is His mission,

and He provides the people and resources to make the Gospel available in countries far beyond what we could ever believe.

We started something during SENT called the digital mission field. We coined that term to define our focus on using the digital realm to reach generations through their primary way of communicating with one another, getting information, and asking questions about the things that matter most to them. We are going to multiply our efforts on digital mission work, not just here in the United States, but everywhere we go. I believe in the next five years we will have countries that we are only reaching through the digital mission field because the traditional methods of ministry may no longer work.

Finally, we are going to remind the church that we are called to go into our own neighborhoods and reach the people that are closest to us. This focus on hyper-local impact will lift up laypeople

Celebrate LHM Sunday at Your Church in 2021

by ALEX MYERS

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utheran Hour Ministries has a long-standing tradition of providing a message of hope to the world at times when we need to hear it most. That tradition began 90 years ago when the voice of Dr. Walter A. Maier rang out over the radio on the first broadcast of The Lutheran Hour and, because of you, the tradition still stands strong today.

Throughout those years, we have used the prevailing technologies of the day to bring that message to as many people as possible … and we are not slowing down!

Beginning in February 2021, we hope that you will celebrate this spirit of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church with us by hosting an LHM Sunday at your congregation on whatever day throughout the year is best for your church’s calendar.

… God expects us to be bold and to drive forward.

This day provides the opportunity to come together and celebrate the impact that the Lord makes in people’s lives every single day.

If your congregation has hosted an LHM Sunday before, you may notice some changes next year, but what has not changed is our commitment to providing you with everything you will need. Churches should look for a postcard soon with details about how to access downloadable materials for your 2021 event. Learn more by visiting lhm.org/lhmsunday, or by calling 1-800-876-9880.

God continues to give all of us the strength to proudly proclaim the Gospel. Please join us in celebration as we look forward to another 90 years and beyond. = Alex Myers is a marketing and communications specialist for LHM.

so they can bless their neighborhoods. It’s about looking at where God has put you in your everyday life, where you’re walking past people who you may not even notice or recognize, and saying what message, what impact, what smile has God prepared for you to give to that person today? Christians are going to be the leaders in reaching out and loving their neighbors as God has commanded us to do, and LHM is going to play a big part in that.

Once again, thank you. We could not do any of this without you, because we would not have the confidence or the drive to look at what’s next if you hadn’t first said “Yes!” and joined us on this journey known as SENT. I look forward to seeing what God will do through all of us in the coming months and years. We have our vision, but God will clarify that vision along the way by opening doors that we cannot even imagine as we stand here today. To God be the glory! =

You Can Make a Difference!

December 1, 2020 Luke 15:3-7

lhm.org/givingtuesday The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 7

Take a Thailand Trek

Without Leaving Your Home or School!

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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or 2021, Gospel Adventures is heading on a Kids Fund. Gifts given to the Global Kids Fund Thailand Trek with the country’s national during Thailand Trek will go directly toward symbol, the elephant. Just like Passport to LHM’s ministry work in Thailand. Every year Peru and Go Mongolia, Gospel Adventures: for the holidays, including Christmas, National Thailand Trek will be a free resource available Children’s Day, and Valentine’s Day, LHM– to Christian schools, churches, homeschools, Thailand conducts school outreach programs and individuals across the United States, filled that reach between 3,000 and 5,000 children with fun activities and an interactive website. in schools throughout Thailand. During Gospel Adventures gives kids, and even some these events, LHM–Thailand staff shares the adults, an inside look into the Good News with students day-to-day lives of people and teachers who have not like them around the world yet heard the saving Gospel through music, videos, and message. In addition, each “Thailand” means land of fun characters. Children can student who attends the event the free see, through the engaging receives a gift package filled About 70 million people live videos, that there are children with LHM children’s bilingual in Thailand today who share the same faith booklets, a Bible story coloring as them who are located all book with a crayon or colored There are more than 60 around the world. pencil, LHM mementos, and languages spoken in Thailand Not only do participants a sweet treat or cookie. A gift Thailand has 1,430 islands get to see how people live of $5 will provide a special and work in other countries, gift package to one child.

Some areas can get up to but they get to see God’s Donations can be made online 15 feet of rain work in action with examples at lhm.org/give (and selecting The elephant is the national of how they can share the Global Kids Fund from the symbol Gospel with people in these dropdown menu) or mailed to Houses are built on stilts, areas through prayer and the LHM office in St. Louis, MO. five or six feet off the ground designated chapel offerings.

Are you interested in using As a way to support Gospel Adventures in your church Nearly 40 million tourists children’s ministry around or school, or even at home with visit Thailand each year the world, schools and your kids or grandkids? Visit Thailand does not have churches can choose to gospeladventures.org to an official religion collect donations through register, or to download the chapel offerings or change sample containing the Day 1 drives. These donations will go toward LHM’s curriculum to see what this program is all about.

Global Kids Fund that supports ministries The full week of curriculum will be available that are similar to the one they saw during the in January 2021. We look forward to going on a Gospel Adventures program.

Thailand Trek with you, beginning in 2021! = Since 2012, these activities have led to more Megan McDaniel reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work around the world. than $200,000 being donated to LHM’s Global

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did you know:

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… they get to see God’s work in action.

8 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

Translated Audio Devotions Share the Good News During Difficult Times

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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s the coronavirus spreads around the world, India has been especially hard hit with more than eight million cases of COVID-19. This led to the government there issuing a complete lockdown. The people of India were not allowed to travel or hold any events during the summer months.

Fortunately, LHM’s Regional Director for Asia, Gunya Na Thalang, had an idea to continue sharing the Good News with the people in India.

Na Thalang suggested translating the LHM– India daily devotions into the various regional languages so they could be shared on the social media platform “WhatsApp.” The idea was well-received by the LHM–India volunteers in different parts of the country who quickly began the process of translating them into Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati languages.

In addition to translating the written devotions in three languages, it was decided to make audio versions of the devotions in all three languages … they can listen to as well. The staff and volunteers the Gospel message believe that having from wherever the devotions in they are. audio formats will have a good impact since it is sometimes more convenient for people to listen to messages than to read them every day.

Another benefit of sharing the messages on WhatsApp is that they will be stored on the platform. This allows listeners to go back and retrieve older messages that they missed or want to listen to again. The people in India are happy to have the devotions in audio formats, so they can listen to the Gospel message from wherever they are. =

NURTURING YO U R FA I T H : PA R T T H R E E

The Possibilities of Forgiveness

Watch a video introduction with Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies, LHM’s regional director of North America, at lhm.org/studies.

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elcome back to Nurturing Your Faith: Forgiveness. In this session, The Possibilities of Forgiveness, we’ll look at how forgiving others is an issue touching us all. Previously, we’ve seen how God’s forgiveness is complete and eternal (see 1 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 1:7). But what about the forgiveness we offer? How do we treat sins against us or those we love? How do we offer real and lasting forgiveness—with no conditions and “no strings attached”—like Jesus?

Or does our forgiveness hinge on secret conditions like “You’re forgiven if list your requirements here take place”? Do we forgive, or do we simply soldier on—secretly clinging to the person’s sin because we won’t let go? And, sadly, are we happy to leave it at that: a wound that never heals because we’re too busy nursing the grievance? These are some of the questions we will consider in this session.

Treacherous Brotherly Betrayal In the Old Testament, the life of Joseph is a narrative of forgiveness and reconciliation (see Genesis 37-50).

Early in the story, we see Jacob’s favorite son, Joseph, was held in contempt by his jealous brothers. To prove the point, they sold him to Midianite traders, heading to Egypt. While they figured this was the last they’d see of him, Joseph’s story was only beginning. Living in Egypt, he experienced a meteoric rise to unimaginable heights of power, becoming second in authority only to Pharaoh himself (see Genesis 41:37-45). Indeed, all was well for Joseph. But time and famine would change that. Hard times in Canaan brought Joseph’s brothers back to Egypt in search of food—and to meet again their long, lost brother.

As Egypt’s governor, Joseph managed the country’s food supply. Thus, when ten of his brothers arrived from Canaan, hungry and looking for grain, Joseph was the point man. Recognizing them, though going undetected in his disguise, he had them where he wanted—if he meant to retaliate. After some character testing and not a little subterfuge, the brothers are embraced by a weeping Joseph who forgives their heartless sin years earlier.

He tells them, “And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt” (Genesis 45:7-8).

God works through our circumstances no matter how dreadful they might appear—even when we’re left for dead as Joseph was. In the end, Joseph was reunited with Jacob, and with the family’s move into Egypt, the stage was getting set for God’s later work through Moses.

Questions: 1. How would you feel getting sold into slavery? Could you pardon such an offense? What do you think motivated Joseph to extend forgiveness to his brothers?

2. Consider an event in your life (or someone you know) that feels “too big” to be forgiven. What barriers stand in the way of reconciliation?

3. How does one get past the lingering resentment of having been wronged, especially in a big way? continued …

D O W N LO A D S T U DY G U I D E A N D V I D E O AT L H M . O R G / S T U D I E S The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 9

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Questions:

Wandering Son Returning Home In Luke 15:11-32 we have Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son. The younger of two sons, he demanded his share of the estate (before his father’s death) and, in the process, shunned his family, exposing them to public ridicule by his brash behavior. Adding more salt to the wound, he went to “a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living” (Luke 15:13b). In short, he blew his bankroll partying with the Gentiles, was destitute when a famine settled in, and ended up slopping swine to get by—a stinging blow to his ego and Jewish upbringing! Then the light went on! Why not return home, confess his sins, and seek his father’s mercy, doing work as a hired hand?

With his father’s estate in view, the penitent son probably still had misgivings. But what choice did he have? As awkward as returning home was going to be—and it would be awkward—the son was at wits’ end. If there was a shred of forgiveness left in his father, the wandering son hoped he would find it. He was not disappointed. Now “while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” At the son’s repentance, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son,” the father welcomed him home with gifts and food and celebration. All was forgiven.

But regrettably this joyous reunion was marred by the bitter taste of resentment and unforgiveness.

The prodigal’s brother was not pleased with junior’s arrival—and understandably so. With a famine in full swing and resources scarce, what’s with the merrymaking, the hoopla, the slaughter of a fattened calf!?

Why!? For this returning tramp? The father’s pleas to his elder son to rejoice (and be merciful) may have fallen on deaf ears. “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found” (Luke 15:31b-32).

We don’t know if the elder son came around or not. Unforgiveness can work that way. Unlike Joseph’s thrill at seeing his brothers, the prodigal’s brother may have preferred to never see his brother again.

Acting on Jesus’ teachings to forgive had to be tough for the earliest believers. The hardships Paul and his companions faced in their ministry dogged them constantly. In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul speaks of “false apostles” who are unsettling believers in Corinth by trying to vilify his character with personal attacks and ridicule. “For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:13). It wasn’t enough to deal with the world’s wicked resistance to the Gospel; Paul had to work through these things, too.

These imposters, like others Paul dealt with in positions of religious authority or political power, brought him much grief—and physical pain. He was a veteran of abuse, suffering “far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned.” Added to this was “danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles … danger from false brothers” (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

Forgiving such torments would seem impossible unless the forgiver knew himself to be guilty of similar atrocities, or even greater. Paul writes, “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost” (2 Timothy 1:15).

Now, following his Savior’s lead, Paul could forgive even as he himself had been forgiven. hances are slim that any of us have been sold into slavery, but we may have had a child come home after a period of reckless living, or endured gross mistreatment by others. Jesus set the measure of our forgiveness when He prayed on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what

Pray

2. Do you agree with the father’s gracious forgiveness of the errant son? Should there be conditions— some sort of payback for his selfish squandering—before forgiveness and restoration? If so, what would you suggest? If not, how do you prevent the same thing from happening again?

3. Was the older son justified in his response toward his brother? Do you think they ever reconciled?

Questions:

Ministry Through Criticism

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1. Has anyone ever forgiven you for a major blunder? Why? How has that grace impacted your life and your attitude towards those who have done you wrong?

they do” (Luke 23:34b). With these words, Jesus asks the Father’s mercy for all who have put Him to death—including you and me. How much more are we to forgive those who do wrong to us?

But this is what we are called to do in Christ.

Paul wrote, “Put on then, as God’s chosen

1. Insults and unjust criticisms are hard to take, especially when trying to do good. How can you be a forgiving person in such circumstances?

2. How does one suffer physically for the Christian faith, stay enthused with sharing the Gospel, and extend forgiveness to those who do such things?

3. How much do you think Paul was motivated to forgive others when he looked back at his own pre-Christian life? How has God used your past to shape you into who you are today?

ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive” (Colossians 3:12-13). =

Heavenly Father, by Your Holy Spirit may we become people who joyfully forgive those who sin against us—even as we have been forgiven

by You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

10 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

The Hopeful Neighborhood—Now Available from Lutheran Hour Ministries by PAUL SCHREIBER

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“It appears that trying to make a difference in your neighborhood winds up making a huge difference in your own life!”

ook number three from Lutheran Hour Ministries, based on research through our partnership with Barna Group, is now available. It’s The Hopeful Neighborhood: What Happens When Christians Pursue the Common Good, published by InterVarsity Press. It completes the trilogy of texts written by Don Everts, LHM’s content development manager.

Like The Reluctant Witness: Discovering the Delight of Spiritual Conversations and The Spiritually Vibrant Home: The Power of Messy Prayers, Loud Tables, and Open Doors before it, Everts’ writing is a fruitful mix of personal experience; years in the ministry; stories of believers, then and now; and his fondness of Barna Group research. Readers will find The Hopeful Neighborhood is packed with practical ways to apply their faith in real-life contexts, with real-life neighbors, sharing a real-life Savior.

For a book on making neighborhoods hopeful, Everts has another credential: he’s lived in thirty of them, and he’s eager to make the most of his. If you’re looking to impact the world at street level, but you’re fatigued by culture wars or the church being rejected as irrelevant, this book offers hopeful action steps. As Everts writes, “If you’re tired of being isolated in a Christian holy huddle and find yourself hungry for more real relationships with non-Christians, keep reading.

You may find that you and your nonChristian neighbors have more in common than you think.”

Along the way, some things surprised Everts: “It can be tempting to see pursuing our own spirituality and pursuing good in the community as living in tension with each other.

We found, however, that the majority of people who pursue the common good of their neighborhood find themselves growing closer to God in

the process. Along the way, they also tend to be inspired, be happy, and make new friends! It appears that trying to make a difference in your neighborhood winds up making a huge difference in your own life!”

A huge takeaway for Everts was how Christians really do want to make a change at the grassroots level: “It seems it’s time for Christians and churches to reclaim our Godgiven call to pursue the common good of our communities. The reality is many Christians want to grow in this area. They want to connect their profession or skills with their service at or through their church.

And a wide majority of pastors prefer lay initiatives to church programs, so the time is ripe for Christians to take the initiative in their own neighborhoods.”

You can purchase a copy of The Hopeful Neighborhood at lhm.org/ together. =

LHM’s Voter Registration Begins in February by CHAD FIX

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s part of LHM’s annual election process, anyone who has given a gift to the ministry between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020 (and is also a member of a congregation of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod or Lutheran Church–Canada) will receive a postcard in early February with details on how to become part of the voting membership in spring 2021. Members will have the option of registering online to receive an electronic ballot (the preferred method since it saves substantial ministry dollars) or mailing back the postcard to receive a paper ballot for the annual election that takes place April 15 through May 15.

Since a new voting membership is established for each election cycle, you must sign up to participate in the 2021 election regardless of whether you registered (or voted) in previous years.

The 2021 election will include a vote for five open positions on the Board of Directors as well as several important Bylaws changes. You will be able to view information about the slate of candidates as well as read an explanation and full markup of the proposed Bylaws changes in the next issue of The Lutheran Layman. You are then encouraged to register to vote

by March 15 to ensure that your voice is heard during the 2021 election!

Election results will be announced online around June 1 and in the summer issue of The Lutheran Layman. If you have questions about the election process, please call 1-800-876-9880 or send an email to lh_min@lhm.org. =

LHM Christmas TV Specials Visit our broadcast guide to see where these Christmas classics are airing.

lhm.org/guide The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 11

LHM Ambassador Program: New Features for You and Your Congregation by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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utheran Hour Ministries aims to energize, equip, and engage laity for outreach. For more than 100 years, LHM has equipped churches and laypeople with the resources needed to share the love of Jesus Christ with their communities.

We know Christians are passionate about sharing the Gospel and understand the importance of outreach but don’t always feel confident or adequately equipped for The Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20 ESV. 16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Through partnerships with congregations, we can help equip their members. In order

to effectively facilitate those partnerships, we recruit members from the congregations to serve as LHM Ambassadors. An LHM Ambassador is a congregation member who nurtures a relationship between LHM for the purpose of sharing resources and helping their congregation use them. Having an LHM Ambassador in every LCMS congregation and beyond leads to a greater number of people impacted by the Good News of the Gospel.

Through the relationship that the Ambassador builds, he or she is able to share the tools and resources developed by LHM for outreach in the community and congregational setting.

“Ambassadors play a pivotal role in helping outreach happen at the local level by assessing the equipping needs of their congregation, encouraging participation with LHM outreach training and resources, and helping Christians develop confidence and skills for effective witness,” says Jennifer Prophete, LHM’s community development manager.

Being an Ambassador is easy! All you need is access to the internet,

2020 LLL Fall Virtual Event

On September 26, around 200 people joined together, some virtually from their homes and others at one of the five hosting locations, for the LLL Fall Virtual Event. Districts that were not able to gather that day used the recorded presentation for their conventions held at a later date. Participants joined from Alaska and California to Tennessee and Michigan.

The event featured a Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age training session led by Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, LHM’s director of design and development. An opening devotion was led by Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, Speaker of 12 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

an active email address, and a love for sharing the Gospel with those around you (and encouraging others to do the same)! You simply start by checking your email for the latest trainings and Ambassador-related information.

LHM Ambassadors are also invited to a yearly Lutheran Laymen’s League (LLL) event to learn about LHM resources and how to use them, and network with other individuals who are also excited about sharing their faith.

Simple ways for LHM Ambassadors to use our resources include leading Bible studies, book studies, and listening groups; keeping Project Connect booklet racks stocked; hosting LHM Sunday at your congregation; and more!

When you sign up to become an LHM Ambassador, you will receive a welcome package with some unique gifts to help keep you connected to us!

New this year, all Ambassadors now receive 20 percent off every purchase made at shoplhm.org for you and your congregation. We want resources in your hands to be used to equip you to share Jesus in your congregation.

“Ambassadors play a pivotal role in helping outreach happen at the local level by assessing the equipping needs of their congregation …”

All Ambassadors will be connected to a dedicated LHM staff member to support you and help with any questions.

We praise God for your willingness to consider serving as a Lutheran Hour Ministries Ambassador! Your partnership in our mission of Gospel outreach is a great blessing to the church and to LHM. We pray that it will be a blessing to you also.

Does your congregation need an LHM Ambassador? Consider joining LHM in the mission of Gospel outreach by equipping the laity through the local congregation.

Visit lhm.org/ambassador for more information and to fill out the LHM Ambassador application. We look forward to partnering with you and your congregation in Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church.

… many can agree they look forward to next year’s event!

The Lutheran Hour, followed by a welcome message and ministry updates from LHM President and CEO Kurt Buchholz. Jennifer Prophete, LHM community development manager hosted the event, while LHM Vice President, Global Ministries, Rev. Dr. Tony Cook shared an overview of products and programs.

Attendees of the event enjoyed hearing updates about LHM as well as listening to all of the presenters. Several participants commented on the quality of the materials that were presented, and one individual said they were “sharing the books by Don Everts with our

men’s Bible study group. We will be using them as the basis of our Bible studies over the next several months. I’ll also be sharing with other pastors and laypeople.”

While many people have missed face-to-face gatherings this year, participants at the virtual LLL event enjoyed the ability to learn what is going on at LHM from their home, without having to travel to a meeting. But many can agree they look forward to next year’s event.

The LLL is looking forward to using available technology to bring LHM speakers and training to every convention virtually. Virtual events

Estrellita Character Shares Hope with Youth During Pandemic

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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Serving as an Ambassador is simple!

1. Simply open the monthly Ambassador email! The emails contain new product and program information, and all you need to do is read them and share the information that fits your congregation.

2. Ambassadors are invited to a yearly training hosted by your local LLL. The events will be virtual, so you can join from wherever you are!

3. LHM Ambassadors are encouraged to lead activities in your congregation such as book clubs, listening clubs, Gospel Adventures groups, or Bible studies.

Images above L-R: Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, Kurt Buchholz, Jennifer Prophete, and Rev. Dr. Tony Cook will be held in the spring and fall each year allowing people around the country to enjoy many opportunities to be trained on the latest LHM resources, be grounded in Scripture together, and enjoy fellowship and learning from each other. Look for more information about the March 2021 event coming soon! =

Paula knew in her heart that the answer to the question of how to stay close to the children during this time was to let Estrellita be with the children, but through a screen.

hile facing the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic that has often prevented people from gathering face-to-face, the LHM–Uruguay staff remains steadfast in their mission to share the Good News. Using social networks and multimedia as the main tools, LHM–Uruguay reinvented the way they do ministry.

The LHM–Uruguay ministry center is known for their dedicated work that focuses on children, women, and youth. Over the last several years, the staff has held many activities and events that bring a good number of women and youth participants to the ministry center building where they are then connected to a local church for additional follow up.

Some of the most popular events have been the Junior Chefs workshops and the School Assistantship for public school children. Since in-person events had to be paused during the pandemic, the LHM–Uruguay staff looked for new ways to stay close to the children. They were then enlightened by a “little star” known in Uruguay as Estrellita.

Estrellita is a character that was created in 2008 when LHM–Uruguay held events to distribute care packages to around 5,000 individuals. Paula, a ministry center staff member, grabbed the first costume she found at home and used her gift of teaching to share the Gospel with children through this newly-created character. She was an instant hit with the kids and her name became Estrellita, which means “little star.” Since then, Estrellita is always ready with an expression of wonder at the love and goodness of God. Paula knew in her heart that the answer to the question of how to stay close to the children during this time was to let Estrellita be with the children, but through a screen. Estrellita could virtually invite children into her home every Thursday for a time of connecting through YouTube videos.

From there, the question became,

“How do we do this?” The ministry center staff recruited Joaquín, a 17-year-old boy who participates in the youth meetings at the local Lutheran church. After starting a successful family business with his father a few years ago, Joaquín discovered new gifts and talents, including being a genius with cameras. Joaquín accompanies the ministry center staff each week as they shoot and produce the videos, most of which are filmed at the ministry center.

The weekly videos are about Estrellita, a curious 7-year-old girl who is happy about life, loves her family, and is a close friend of Jesus.

She tells viewers what is in her heart and how the Lord teaches her to be a better person through the stories she reads in her Bible. She learns in the Bible that Jesus loves her and forgives her for her sins. Estrellita has many special friends who join her in the videos to share the teachings of Jesus.

In only a few days, the number of subscribers to the LHM–Uruguay YouTube channel grew by 100. Each video has a couple hundred views, with the number continuing to grow each week.

After a short amount of time, the LHM– Uruguay staff realized there is an audience eager for this content and Estrellita’s videos are providing hope for people and children during this difficult time. The responses to Estrellita’s videos have been positive, and most importantly, the children enjoy the videos.

In addition to providing hopeful content, the ministry center staff reached out to their audience offering a Bible as a gift to families who do not have one at home. More than 50 people contacted the office requesting one.

It is clear that Estrellita is opening doors for conversations with the people of Uruguay who desperately need to hear the Gospel message.

You can view Estrellita’s videos on the “Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones Uruguay” YouTube channel. =

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 13

A Lifetime of Christian Service “Nothing is more important than sharing the Gospel with people around the world who have not yet heard it.”

by CHAD FIX

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rganizations existing for more than 100 years have many reasons for success. Beyond a strong mission and purpose, none may be more important than the people involved. For a non-profit organization like the International Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries, the longstanding dedicated efforts of volunteers, the generous recurring support of donors, and the strong leadership among staff have all played key roles in helping the ministry flourish through the decades.

One of the prominent individuals in LHM’s longevity is Laurence “Larry” Lumpe. From the moment he first became involved with the Int’l LLL as an elected member of its Board in 1973, he has left his mark on our ministry through various volunteer and staff roles spanning nearly a half century. In addition to 14 years on the Board of Governors as vice president, treasurer, financial secretary, and chairman/ member of many committees, he has served LHM as a trustee for The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation, part-time gift planning counselor for major gifts, and two stints as executive director (1989-1996 and 2007-2009).

After 33 years in the banking industry serving as president of five banks, assistant vice president of Commerce Bank in Kansas City, president of the Missouri Bankers Association, and on the governance committee of the American Bankers Association in Washington, D.C., Lumpe decided to devote his time and efforts over the last several decades into fulltime service to his Lord. In addition to his work with LHM, he spent time as an estate planner and director of development for the Missouri District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and held several roles with Concordia Historical Institute (including Board president and executive director).

14 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

“I don’t belong to an organization just to belong; I want to be part of an organization because of what it does,” says Lumpe. “What the International Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries do is share the story of the one hope of all human beings everywhere— Jesus Christ, Our Savior—in ways people can understand. Nothing is more important than sharing the Gospel with people around the world who have not yet heard it.”

His banking background and financial acumen were critical in setting ministry priorities that helped LHM navigate through difficult times. God especially blessed several ministry achievements while Lumpe was executive director: • Coordinated with the China Christian Council (CCC) to bring LHM ministry to China. Although LHM has never operated a ministry center in China, it has been a partner in God’s mission and works together with the national CCC and ThreeSelf Patriotic Movement (TSPM) of the national protestant church. LHM donors also provided the funds to build the Ai Ji (Love of Christ) printing factory in Shanghai. Since then, millions of copies of Christian spiritual books, magazines, hymns, booklets, and tracts (including our own LHM outreach materials) have been printed and distributed throughout China.

• Sponsored the launch of Orphan Grain Train (OGT) as a social ministry to re-engage laypeople through gathering donations of clothing, medical supplies, food, Christian literature, and other material resources to meet real needs worldwide. Since 1992, OGT’s 29 regional locations have delivered more than 36 million meals and 3,700 shipments of humanitarian aid to needy people in several states and 70 countries on five continents. OGT operates today as an independent, recognized service organization (RSO) of the LCMS.

• Picked up the Woman to Woman radio program hosted by (the late) Phyllis Wallace in 1993 that had previously been airing on St. Louis radio station KFUO-AM. The awardwinning broadcast expanded to 400 stations in syndication by introducing listeners to guests who had expertise on the topics being covered.

Wallace filled each show with talk you could trust to inform, inspire, and transform the hearts of women so they could apply God’s practical, loving genius to the demands of everyday life.

• Launched a comprehensive and successful ministry campaign called “Go ... Tell a NEW Generation” that raised more than $100 million to fund numerous new ministry outreach programs worldwide.

“Larry is a true Christian gentleman whose steadying influence always helped make sure things were going right,” says Larry Pritchett, long-time LHM staff member who served as chief financial officer and chief operating officer before retiring in 2016. “People enjoyed working with him because his word was his bond.”

Lumpe was named outstanding development officer of the LCMS in 1988, raising more than $10 million that year for churches, agencies, districts, the Int’l LLL, LWML, and the LCMS. In 2012, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, honored him with the Christus Vivit award given to a layman or church professional whose life exemplifies “an evident and sustained devotion to the Lord and a diligent and effective use of gifts in support of the church and its mission.”

“I have always believed that the Lord has put me in certain places, and I thank Him,” says Lumpe. “May God continue to bless Lutheran Hour Ministries with a clear sense of mission, a clear call to share His story, and the enduring power for all of us to carry out our task as His witnesses.” =

“I don’t belong to an organization just to belong; I want to be part of an organization because of what it does.”

A Season of Joy … and Hope!

Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.

Luke 2:10b

by DR. KURT SENSKE, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

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he seasons are changing.

Malls and downtowns around the country are starting to be decked out with Christmas decorations.

Christmas music proclaiming this the most wonderful time of the year can be heard on publicaddress systems and radios.

Christmas specials can be found on many of your television channels.

But many things will be different this year as the Advent season begins. Normal gatherings with family and friends either may not happen or may be relegated to a virtual experience. Many malls will not have Santa Claus listening to eager children share their wish lists. Opportunities for people to gather in person at their home church to hear the Word of God

and sing and pray in fellowship with other congregation members may be restricted.

As the church and the world around us prepare to celebrate the Good News of great joy that Jesus Christ was born, some people just are not feeling very joyful this year. The events of 2020 have left many in this broken world without hope. However, as people continue to face uncertainty, sadness, and fear in their lives, my mind keeps coming back to that message shared in Luke 2:10 to provide great hope as we enter Advent: “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”

This is the essential message of Christmas. The Good News is the birth of Jesus, a child born

to a teenage, unmarried mother sheltering in a barn, after being forced by imperial forces of oppression to make a dangerous journey. We fear not, because God sent His Son to be born here, to become one of us, to feel our pain and sorrows, and to ultimately carry our sins upon Himself on the cross. This message has the power to drive fear away.

As Christians, we are a people of hope, even in a time of widespread despair. We know that no matter how bleak the world around us may seem, the joy of Christmas transforms our world and reality and causes us to be agents of transformation and change. The shepherds received this joyful news of Jesus’ birth and went to Bethlehem and met Jesus and

the family, and then returned “glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them” (Luke 2:20b). Today we are invited to do the same.

This time of year offers the uniqueness of Christ’s church, its message, and the joyful fact that we work together as His witnesses to share the Good News of Jesus Christ as this world’s ONLY hope for life and salvation. That is what Advent, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are all about … no matter how difficult the circumstances.

I thank God for your partnership, prayers, and support of the global work of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

May God bless you and your family this Advent season! =

COMING IN JANUARY 2021!

Learn more and register for FREE!

GOSPELADVENTURES.ORG

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 15

Hope Abounds Around the World Liberia

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ith the hearts of many people around the world hurting, those who had previously not known about Christ are now more open to hearing the Gospel. This means Lutheran Hour Ministries’ mission to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those hurting individuals is even more urgent now.

Although some ministry programs around the world have been postponed or adapted to meet government guidelines regarding COVID-19, the staff and volunteers at our ministry centers continue to spread hope with those who need it.

Learn more below about some of the ways that our staff and volunteers are providing hope in the midst of uncertainty.

Many of our ministry center staff and volunteers shared selfies with their facemasks, and we want to see yours, too!

Take a selfie wearing your #HopeAbounds mask and share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, using #HopeAbounds.

Ghana LHM–Ghana hosts a popular radio program that covers topics such as social issues, sermons, devotions, talk shows, motivational topics, and more. Using online radio, they also broadcast The Lutheran Hour archived messages and Daily Devotions throughout the week. Radio programming in Ghana has effectively been reaching individuals with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

LHM–Liberia adapted their vocational training sessions for young women during the pandemic. When government regulations restricted large gatherings, LHM–Liberia moved their classes outdoors and began offering them at different times and days, for smaller groups of women. The women hear the Gospel message and learn practical skills like sewing, so afterward they can take their skills and turn them into a job to provide for their families.

Madagascar During the pandemic, ministry centers like LHM–Madagascar have utilized Bible Correspondence Courses (BCC) for individuals to learn about the Gospel from the comfort and security of their own homes. BCC lessons are Bible-based studies that enable people of all ages, faiths, and educational levels to explore the Bible’s teachings and the Christian faith at their own pace.

Jamaica LHM–Jamaica staff uses a variety of methods to share the Gospel with individuals, including holistic support.

When children went back to school this fall, the ministry center staff and volunteers passed out school supplies for the local children. Even without in-person events for the time being, they are continuing to make an impact in children’s lives.

South Korea Social media is a simple and effective way to reach others, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic began. LHM–South Korea staff have been increasing their social media followers during this time and have begun a YouTube channel to share engaging video messages of hope.

Malaysia Loading MP3 players with an audio Bible, Lutheran Bible courses, sermons, teaching content, songs, and hymns allows LHM–Malaysia to reach indigenous people in areas outside the radio signal range. Our staff in Malaysia has distributed hundreds of audio Bibles this year alone.

16 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

United States Dave from Alabama is a faithful supporter of LHM and The Lutheran Hour. He looks forward to the sermons each week, and when he received his #HopeAbounds facemask, he was eager to wear it and spread hope in his community.

How does hope abound in your life?

Send your stories of hope to marketing@lhm.org for possible use in an upcoming issue of The Lutheran Layman.

“This has been a wonderful opportunity to be reminded that we really have a calling to help build spiritual vibrancy in our own household …”

Southeastern District, LCMS, Explores Households of Faith in Webinars by PAUL SCHREIBER

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ince the onset of COVID-19, webinars and internet video conferencing have become go-to vehicles for organizations and corporations to connect with their constituencies and employees. In August, Lutheran Hour Ministries conducted three Households of Faith webinars to benefit the mission and ministry of the Southeastern District of the LCMS. The webinars were featured as part of the district’s popular “Thursdays at Noon” webinar series. Each was hosted by Sally Hiller, deaconess in the SE District.

Drawing from LHM’s three-year partnership with Barna Group, Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, vice president of Global Ministries, and Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, director of design and development for LHM, presented these half-hour webinars. Cook and Broge shared important data points from Barna’s second year of research and showed how any household can boost its spiritual vibrancy by taking intentional steps.

The term “household” is used often in Scripture, with more than 2,000 examples in the Old Testament, and more than 100 in the New Testament, with many more allusions beyond these.

By studying present-day households, Barna’s goal was to “observe interactions among practicing Christians who live together and how faith is experienced and transmitted among them,” Broge said. The family units examined included nuclear

families; single-person, single-parent, and multi-generational households, couples, roommates, or some other configuration.

Utilizing the Households of Faith monograph and Don Everts’ book, The Spiritually Vibrant Home: The Power of Messy Prayers, Loud Tables, and Open Doors, Cook showed how there are three “pillars” for cultivating a spiritually vibrant home. Each is biblically based; each can be included in the life of any household.

These pillars are to apply spiritual disciplines; extend hospitality; and engage in spiritual conversations.

Cook said that spiritual coaching is a way of “intentionally nurturing the three vibrancy characteristics within your home.” This can be done using an easyto-remember, three-part method: model (vibrant characteristics), respond (in the moment), and plan (vibrant practices).

Research findings indicate that “spiritual vibrancy is not determined by unchangeable characteristics, but by things any Christian can improve.” This was welcome news to webinar participants in the SE District.

“This has been a wonderful opportunity to be reminded that we really have a calling to help build spiritual vibrancy in our own household. It’s not too late wherever you are in that family—or that household—journey. There’s plenty of time at this moment for us to take a step forward,” Hiller said. =

A Reimagined New Year’s Celebration by CHAD FIX

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ue to restrictions put in place because of COVID-19, the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade will not be part of New Year’s Day festivities on Jan. 1, 2021 for the first time since 1945. Enjoyed by millions around the world each year, the annual parade has previously been cancelled only three times since its inception in 1891— the wartime years of 1942, 1943, and 1945.

As a result of this year’s postponement, the 2022 parade will feature all elements planned for 2021 under the theme of “Dream. Believe. Achieve.”, including the Lutheran Hour Ministries float entry, “Jesus Teaches.” The LHM float is the only Christian float in each year’s parade and carries on a mission of providing a Gospel witness to viewers everywhere, from along the parade route to televisions worldwide.

In place of this year’s parade, The Tournament of Roses will host a two-hour television special during their normally scheduled parade time (8 a.m. Pacific Time) on New Year’s Day 2021. The Petal Pushers, a group of up to 5,000 volunteers who decorate the LHM float and as many as nine others each year, are hoping to be included in a segment on volunteering and have provided a video to be used by the networks. You should also check your email inbox and LHM’s social media platforms around New Year’s as we celebrate the LHM float’s 70-year tradition of sharing Christ through the Rose Parade.

The LHM float is a selffunded project of the Lutheran Hour The LHM Ministries Float Committee and the float is the Southern California District of the International Lutheran Laymen’s only Christian League. The committee’s ongoing float in each work is funded primarily by generous year’s parade donations from Christian friends and carries and multiple fundraising activities and is not included in the operating on a mission budget of Lutheran Hour Ministries. of providing a To learn more about supporting this effort, as well as upcoming volunteer Gospel witness to viewers opportunities and merchandise available through their online store, everywhere … visit petalpushers.org. =

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 17

God with Us: Advent Devotions to Celebrate 2020 by PAUL SCHREIBER

A

… these thoughtful reflections invite us to pause and ponder the certainty of God’s love in a tumultuous and unsettling year.

re you ready for a bright spot to close out 2020?

In a strange year full of troubling events, the divine gift of Christmas comes to dispel the gloom and uncertainty brought on by COVID-19. As we head into the holidays, take some time (and much needed relief) to center your thoughts on Mobile, audio, and Spanish also available! the gift of God’s beloved Son with LHM’s Advent devotions: God with Us in English, or Dios con nosotros in Spanish.

Written by Dr. Kari Vo, theological writer for LHM, God with Us these thoughtful reflections invite us to pause and ponder the certainty of God’s love in a tumultuous and unsettling year. Ideal for

DEVOTIONS Advent 2020

private meditation, Advent devotions can also help center your family or Bible study group on God’s Word for thought and discussion (each devotion has three reflection questions). As an outreach resource, you can pass them along to others, sharing at this critical time how God is greater than our fears and circumstances (see Isaiah 41:10).

You can access LHM’s Advent devotions in a number of ways. You can read God with Us or hear it as a podcast. During the Advent season, you can receive these devotions as a daily email, beginning Sunday, November 29. You can access a downloadable version, which

includes a large-font text and bulletin inserts. Audio begins on November 29 with Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, LHM’s vice president of Global Ministries, reading the devotions. Visit lhm.org/advent for all the details.

Dios con nosotros, the Spanish-language version, will be available to read online or to receive as a daily email through the Advent season beginning Sunday, November 29. Audio will also begin on November 29 with Rev. Hector Hoppe reading the texts. A print version is also available for download.

Visit www.paraelcamino. com/adviento for all the details. =

Celebrating 75 Years of Partnership in Australia by MEGAN MCDANIEL

W

hen the first broadcast of The Lutheran Hour aired in 1930, the members of the Lutheran Laymen’s League had a vision of spreading the Gospel message far and wide through the relatively new technology of broadcast radio. Now, 90 years after the first broadcast, the Good News has been carried around the world by radio waves.

September marked the 75th anniversary of LHM’s ministry partnership with Lutheran Media in Australia. On September 2, 1945, The Lutheran Hour aired its first program on Australian radio. On that day, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour Dr. Walter A. Maier’s voice was heard on 36 Australian radio stations beaming into major “… pray for cities and rural areas. the people Since LHM began the of Australia partnership in Australia, the and beyond, radio outreach messages that their ears have been formatted to fit are opened into the Australian culture to the Good which included changing News of Jesus the music from American Christ and His songs to Australian songs message of

hope!”

18 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

and changing the program’s name several times before landing on the current name, Messages of Hope.

Messages of Hope aims to bring hope to people who need to hear the Good News of Jesus. Each week, the radio messages reach more than one million people with their 15-minute and oneminute messages that are played on hundreds of radio stations. Lutheran Media’s impact in Australia is comparable to the impact of The Lutheran Hour and other LHM media outreach in the United States.

Messages of Hope features inspirational pastors, speakers, and interviews with

individuals who share about real life situations.

The Christ-centered content of Messages of Hope engages listeners by addressing everyday concerns such as parenting, grief, purpose in life, second chances, conflict, and forgiveness.

Opportunities to order Lutheran Media’s topical outreach booklets and to join online discussions about faith and living are offered on each broadcast.

In addition to making the program tailored for Australian listeners, they have produced messages for television and social media.

“Outreach booklets and other resources have also given hope to thousands of people,” shares Lutheran Media Director, Pastor Richard Fox. “Please pray for the people involved in this mission and our messages, and pray for the people of Australia and beyond, that their ears are opened to the Good News of Jesus Christ and His message of hope!”

We are thankful for this partner in ministry to further our mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. Visit www.lutheranmedia.org.au to learn more about our ministry partnership with Lutheran Media. =

The Digital Conversation Team Is Here to Help by PAUL SCHREIBER

M

embers of LHM’s Digital Conversation Team (DCT) are helping those facing difficult life issues or asking spiritual questions. The DCT is currently enlisting caring individuals who can spare a few hours each week to serve others online. The initial goal is to have 60 trained DCT volunteers answering people’s questions online.

Individuals may first encounter the idea of serving others online as a DCT member when they take the Digital Conversation Pledge found at lhm.org/pledge. In fact, the pledge is a good prelude to joining the DCT. Those pledging say that “I recognize that how I use my digital voice matters. I want to use my unique voice in a way that pleases God, lifts others up, and makes a real difference in this world.”

After taking the pledge, participants will receive a daily email for seven days. “After that, I’ll drop them a personal e-mail introducing them to the mission of the DCT,” said Rachel Legouté, manager of digital development for LHM. “They’re invited to fill out an application for the DCT if they so choose. We have had good luck in finding DCT members this way.”

Serving on the DCT takes some key ingredients: sensitivity, empathy, and good communication skills. Legouté said, “Great DCT members love talking to people, even those they’ve never met.

They enjoy helping people who are experiencing troubles in their world, and they really love connecting with those who are asking big questions about life and faith. They also don’t mind taking a little extra time each week to answer a post sent to them from THRED or other online forums.”

Here’s an online exchange that shows a DCT member responding to a comment on THRED. The user writes, “It’s hard for me to make tough decisions about where God is calling me. I’m seeking guidance from my pastor at this time and praying for God’s will to be done.”

The DCT member replied, “I have been where you are, and sometimes it is difficult to know which direction God is calling us to. What I do sometimes, especially when I’m really frustrated, is to surrender the situation to God completely … where you literally ask God to take the situation from you. You become ‘okay’ with whatever the outcome will be, and know that whatever happens, God is in control. His decisions for us are always in our best interest.”

To become a DCT member, take the Digital Conversation Pledge at lhm.org/pledge. =

Virtual VBS Brings the Gospel to Children by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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n July, LHM–Puerto Rico working as a team with the island’s LC­MS missionaries, launched its muchanticipated virtual Vacation Bible School. Of the 40 children that participated in the program, only 10 of them are members of a church. The children enjoyed participating in the program, and the staff and volunteers who ran the event believe the program planted seeds for future sharing and learning with these children.

The virtual VBS program offered the same format each week, inviting participants to explore the grandeur of God’s creation. A live call kicked things off with an introduction from the “research center” where the host went through a slideshow of photos the children sent in of their challenges and crafts during the week. The opening with the host was followed by a new pre-recorded video that the Puerto Rico team produced each week. At a certain point, the video was paused and the program returned to the live call for a pastoral discussion about the theme of the day. Then the rest of the pre-recorded video was played until the end when everyone returned to the live call for prayer

and goodbyes.

“The cohesion and creativity of everyone working in Puerto Rico, both from LHM and the LCMS, really demonstrates what people can accomplish together for the sake of the Gospel,” shared LHM’s Regional Director for North America, Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies. “The virtual VBS is just one of many projects that see the team working together to reach people with the Good News in these unprecedented times.”

The whole Puerto Rico team got involved in this project. A local Puerto Rico pastor wrote, filmed, and edited all the videos. The puppet was played by an LCMS missionary, while another pastor and the LHM– Puerto Rico ministry center director served as actors. All the crafts and activity packets were created and assembled by members of the team and distributed ahead of time.

Each program session was recorded and posted on YouTube to share with others in the mission field. The Puerto Rico team is thankful for the opportunity to connect and share the Gospel with children even though they weren’t able to be together in person. =

“The virtual VBS is just one of many projects that see the team working together to reach people with the Good News in these unprecedented times.”

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 19

CHANGING LIVES Around the World with the

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

THAILAND Mali learned about God when she was a little girl, but she married a man who did not believe in Christ, so she stopped doing anything to grow her Christian faith. She recently heard a few of the LHM–Thailand radio programs and decided that now is the time to know God again. She contacted the LHM– Thailand office and signed up to start their Bible Correspondence Courses right away. She also signed her children up for the children’s courses. She shared with the LHM staff that she is happy she can learn about God and become closer to Him now. The LHM–Thailand team connected her to a local church, and the pastor already reached out to invite her to attend upcoming worship services. Mali continues to listen to the radio programs and grow her faith.

20 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

UNITED STATES Scott is an inmate at a correctional institution in the United States. He sent a letter to LHM to say “thank you” for broadcasting The Lutheran Hour, which has positively impacted him during a difficult time in his life.

He recently lost his 24-year-old daughter in a fatal car accident and has been struggling since her death. He had a very close relationship with her and worries about her mother and the rest of her family, as they all mourn her loss while he is away. He listens to his radio every day and tunes into The Lutheran Hour every Sunday.

Listening to the broadcast has encouraged him to open a Bible and relearn what he learned as a child about Jesus. He enjoys the music played on The Lutheran Hour and is grateful to have the program available to him each week, so he can strengthen his faith again.

Gospel

MEXICO

KAZAKHSTAN

Maria is 33 years old and has an 11-year-old daughter. She is from Mexico but is currently working in the United States as a teacher’s assistant. She follows the LHM–Mexico Facebook page and reached out to the staff after watching one of their Facebook live videos. The topic that day was violence, and being a previous victim, it really touched Maria’s heart. She has talked with LHM–Mexico staff several times and started attending online Bible studies before being referred to an LCMS congregation. Maria desires to have a relationship with God and is enjoying learning more about Him each day.

Alena is blind and has regular visits with an LHM–Kazakhstan volunteer. The volunteer talks to Alena about Jesus and shares stories from the Bible during the visits. Alena mentioned that she wanted to study the Bible on her own but was having a difficult time finding a braille Bible.

The volunteer talked with an LHM– Kazakhstan staff member and shared Alena’s wish for a Bible that she can read on her own. The staff member had two copies of braille Bibles and immediately sent one to Alena. Now, Alena is actively studying the Bible on her own and taking LHM–Kazakhstan Bible courses with the help of the volunteer. Alena wants to start attending church services and has a desire to get baptized soon.

He sent a letter to LHM to say “thank you” for broadcasting The Lutheran Hour, which has positively impacted him during a difficult time in his life.

Lutheran Hour Ministries develops culturally relevant programs and resources to reach people in more than 50 nations who may not be familiar with the Gospel. Below are just a few examples to show how God has been using LHM recently to change lives around the world with His Good News.

MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA Radouan is 23 years old and has struggled to find his purpose in life. He practiced a non-Christian religion but was not fully satisfied with his life. Then, he came across the Facebook page run by LHM ministry staff in the Middle East and North Africa. He shared his story with our staff and told them that he was inspired by their posts. At first, he was very defensive and compared everything he learned to his religion. He knew he had sinned, but he didn’t know what to do about his sins. The staff members told him about Jesus, and he became interested in the Bible verses they were sharing with him.

Radouan talked with our staff members for about a week before, because of God’s saving grace, he became a Christian. The local church has been closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the staff members connected him to some Christians who live nearby, and they are helping him grow his faith. He looks forward to attending worship services when the local churches reopen.

RUSSIA

LAOS

MADAGASCAR

Abduaziz is in prison and participates in LHM–Russia’s Bible Correspondence Courses. He became a Christian after completing the Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age (SCDA) workshop that had been translated into Russian. He felt the materials from the SCDA workshops helped him understand Christianity in a way that he had not been able to understand before.

He shared that the workshop courses helped him know God, and he is thankful that he participated. Abduaziz asked his family to send him a Bible so he can read it every day, and he is interested in joining a local church to nurture his faith once he is released from prison.

Johnny is 17 years old and has grown up in a Christian family; however, he never fully accepted the Christian faith until he saw an LHM–Laos performance. He enrolled in the ministry’s Bible Correspondence Courses and joined a Bible study.

He now attends a local church and participates in the youth programs.

He is challenged at school because other kids try to distract him from his faith, but he stands strong in what he believes. He now volunteers on the drama and acting team to help grow his faith in the Lord.

Viviane grew up in a non-Christian household. As she got older, her friends encouraged her to enroll in Bible Correspondence Courses offered through LHM–Madagascar.

She continued to study the Bible, joined a local church, and became a Christian. For years, Viviane told her dad, Jaosoary, about Christianity and wanted him to have a relationship with God. Her dad had never believed in Jesus, but Viviane kept talking to him about her Christian faith. Recently, Jaosoary got very sick and was admitted to the hospital. Viviane asked her dad if he would like to be baptized, and he quickly said yes and told Viviane to go get the local pastor. Jaosoary was baptized in the hospital, minutes before he passed away. Viviane is thankful for LHM–Madagascar and hopes others will know that God hears our prayers. ==

… staff members connected him to some Christians who live nearby, and they are helping him grow his faith.

The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 21

A Lasting Legacy for Sharing the Gospel

K

en Schroeder has heard the mission of LHM his whole life. Ken’s father, an active member of the Lutheran Laymen’s League in its early years, instilled Lutheran beliefs in Ken at a young age. Growing up in rural Missouri, Ken even listened to Dr. Oswald Hoffmann’s first sermons on The Lutheran Hour.

“I was a young lad whenever he was just starting out as The Lutheran Hour Speaker,” Ken recalls. “He was a very prolific Speaker, and I think he really inspired me.

Pastor Klaus was another one that was very instrumental in my support of LHM, because I really have high regard for both of those Speakers.

Bringing Christ to the Nations was the mission then, and it still is today.”

Several years ago, Ken had the opportunity to travel to a few countries in Africa with some LHM staff. While he was there, he was amazed by the number of people who want and need to hear the Gospel.

“There were around five thousand people gathered in one place to hear the Gospel,” says Ken. “They would walk for miles and miles, and they would sit out in these fields on the bare ground with no air conditioning inside their buildings. Seeing those people and the opportunity for them to be saved was inspirational for me.”

Now a retired UPS driver and manager, Ken

along with his wife, Ida Steindel, a retired educator, continue to support the LHM mission by listening to The Lutheran Hour as well as establishing three charitable gift annuities to further LHM’s Gospel proclamation efforts.

Ken was familiar with charitable gift annuities and said he received a lot of help from his LHM Ministry Advancement Officer, Dean Ehrenheim, in order to get it all set up. Dean and other LHM staff worked out the details with Ken’s financial advisor. “All working together, we got it done,” says Ken. For Ken and Ida, the benefits of their charitable gift annuities include the fixed income and tax benefits, but most importantly, the fact that their support is helping the Gospel message spread around the world. “If I can do something while I’m still here on this earth to further the Kingdom, then that’s what I want to do,” says Ken. If you are interested in starting a charitable gift annuity, Ida encourages you to “first and foremost pray about it and learn as much as you can about charitable gift annuities. Then do whatever is in your heart.”

For more information about starting a charitable gift annuity with LHM, check out the information below. You can also visit lhm.giftlegacy.com or call 1-877-333-1963 during regular business hours.

“… Bringing Christ to the Nations was the mission then, and it still is today.”

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

What is a charitable gift annuity?

A charitable gift annuity with LHM is a gift made to our organization that can provide you with a secure source of fixed payments for life.

What are the benefits of a charitable gift annuity?

• Receive fixed payments to you or another annuitant you designate for life • Receive a charitable income tax deduction for the charitable gift portion of the annuity • Benefit from payments that may be partially tax-free • Further the charitable work of Lutheran Hour Ministries with your gift

How does a charitable gift annuity work?

A charitable gift annuity is a way to make a gift to support Lutheran Hour Ministries.

1. You transfer cash or property to LHM. 2. In exchange, we promise to pay fixed payments to you for life. The payment can be quite high depending on your age, and a portion of each payment may even be tax-free.

3. You will receive a charitable income tax deduction for the gift portion of the annuity.

4. You also receive satisfaction, knowing that you will be helping further our mission.

If you decide to fund your gift annuity with cash, a significant portion of the annuity payment will be tax-free. You may also make a gift of appreciated securities to fund a gift annuity and avoid a portion of the capital gains tax. =

‘Tis the Season to Give the Gospel

by CHAD FIX

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or Christians, the Christmas season often leaves us feeling conflicted. We rejoice together at the celebration of our Savior’s birth and the eternal ramifications of that miraculous event. At the same time, we often cringe at the overwhelming materialism that runs throughout this season.

As you hear about the billions of dollars spent on Christmas gifts each year, you start to wonder how some of the resources that God has blessed us with could be put to other use. LHM humbly asks you to consider giving to something eternal this Christmas—the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Every day, God is working through LHM to change lives with the Gospel in more than 50 nations around the world. As 2020 comes to an end, you can support this mission to proclaim the Good News to all who would hear.

Billions of people still need to hear the message of a Savior who is more valuable and precious than all the wealth of this world.

Please help share this life-changing message with a world in need.

22 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

You can make an end-of-year gift in one of the following ways: 1. Make a direct gift through 9 p.m. CST on Dec. 31! You can make a gift online at lhm.org/give or by calling 1-877-333-1963. You can also mail a gift to Lutheran Hour Ministries, 660 Mason Ridge Center Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63141— just make sure it’s postmarked for Dec. 31 or earlier!

2. Support a matching gift campaign. LHM is blessed to have generous donors who match every dollar given by donors like you at special times throughout the year. You can respond to these limited-time opportunities online and through the mail.

3. Give a Christmas gift to LHM in honor of a special friend or family member.

What a wonderful way to keep Christ in your gift-giving this year!

4. Support ministry through a charitable rollover from your IRA. Or consider other popular giving options such as the establishment of a charitable gift annuity or a donor-advised fund to receive potential tax savings. Find out more at lhm.org/giftplan or by calling our gift planning staff at 1-877-333-1963. =

LHM Learn Courses Continue to Support, Edify During Pandemic

by PAUL SCHREIBER

F

or many, separation from loved ones and friends has been the big issue of COVID-19, and this applies to people’s congregational life, too.

While many churches are slowly coming together again for worship services—if only on a limited attendee, spaced-apart arrangement—many of us are not quite ready to return to enclosed spaces with dozens of other people—who may, or may not, be wearing a face mask.

Filling the need to produce original, Me and My Christ-centered instruction while the Household pandemic continues to impact life in America is LHM Learn. In particular, three of its courses, Me and My Household, Building a Vibrant Household (two of seven Barnabased courses available), and Stress & Worry in the Life of a Christian have benefitted many. These three courses can be accessed and used without enrolling as an LHM Learn Building a Vibrant user—though that is a simple thing to do.

These courses have played a significant Household role in providing instruction to many, according to Ashley Bayless, LHM curriculum development manager for Global Ministries.

“There have been almost 3,000 unique views to the three courses since they were put up on the COVID-19 response page. Two-thirds of those views were for Stress & Worry in the the course, Stress & Worry in the Life of a Life of a Christian Christian. This course explores stress and worry: the causes, effects, and strategies to manage them. It equips learners through God’s Word to look to Him as the Source of strength. During a time of extra stress and worry, I am glad we had a resource to support people with God’s Word.”

Key to LHM Learn’s success with people is that all courses are FREE and take only a quick registration to use.

They’re flexible—you can start and stop when you want—and they’re perfect for people with busy schedules or in-home distractions. Courses feature downloadable resources like a printable journal, discussion guide with questions, video transcript, and a tip sheet for use with small groups.

LHM Learn’s five faith-strengthening categories of courses are ideal for small groups (think Zoom here!) and to share with friends and family who are grappling with similar challenges.

• Christian Foundations (the basics of Christianity from biblical, theological, and historical perspectives) • Cultural Concepts (resources to understand the different demographics, cultures, and religions in our world today)

• Everyday Insights (thoughts about the good and bad that life throws our way) • Outreach Essentials (personal evangelism and tools to reach others with the Gospel) • Spiritual Reflections (devotional thoughts meant to strengthen and encourage) =

In this year’s Advent devotions from LHM, God with Us, we learn again that God has promised grace and forgiveness for all, freely given in the birth of Jesus.

Sign up today to read and listen to these messages of hope and joy!

Spanish also available!

LHM.ORG/ADVENT The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020 | 23

Ministry Center Staff Gathers for Virtual Training by MEGAN MCDANIEL “… this has opened our eyes for possibilities to expand future training.”

A

s some of our ministry centers around the world have adapted their programs to virtual events, our headquarters location adapted one of our training events as well. What we initially hoped would be all of the international ministry center directors gathered in St. Louis for in-person training, became a special time of gathering virtually.

For five consecutive nights and mornings in October, LHM headquarters staff and members from 36 different LHM ministry centers around the world gathered virtually for training for the first time in the organization’s history. To best accommodate the various time zones, the training, based on LHM’s partnership with Barna Group, was presented in two-hour sessions during both the morning and evening time slots. The morning sessions began at 7 a.m. CST and the evening portions began at 8:30 p.m. CST each day.

The first two days of workshops covered training from Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age while the last three days delved into Households of Faith training. Presenters for the training included Dionne Lovstad-Jones, LHM’s regional ministry facilitator; Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies, LHM’s regional director for North America; Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, LHM’s director of design and development; and Ashley Bayless, LHM’s curriculum development manager.

Lovstad-Jones served as a moderator and helped monitor the questions and comments in the chat section, while Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, LHM’s vice president of Global Ministries, led the attendees in opening and closing messages at the start and end of the week.

“As with many things during the COVID-19 pandemic, this has opened our eyes for possibilities to expand future training,” shares Cook. “We do a good job of embracing our team

Brosz Passes to Glory

by CHAD FIX

D

onald J. Brosz returned to his heavenly home Aug. 5 at the age of 87. A long-time LHM supporter who loved his Lord and sought to serve Him in every aspect of life, Brosz filled numerous positions at the zone, district, and international levels of the Lutheran Laymen’s League, including district president, member of the Board of Governors, and international president (1980-1984).

In 2000, he was a founding trustee for The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation and served three terms (including a stint as chairman). To help further LHM’s mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church, the LHM Foundation collects, invests, and distributes endowment funds. The LHM Foundation exists to work with individuals to facilitate transformational gifts that will provide financial vitality and confidence for LHM to dynamically proclaim the Gospel today and into the future. Today, The LHM Foundation manages nearly A long-time $28 million in assets.

LHM supporter After receiving bachelor’s and master’s degrees from South Dakota State University, Brosz served who loved his as an extension irrigation engineer at South Dakota Lord and sought State University, Kansas State University, and the to serve Him in University of Wyoming, from 1960 through 1993. He every aspect of is survived by his wife Pearl, three daughters, two grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. = life …

24 | The Lutheran Layman Fall 2020

locally in the United States, and these training sessions were a great opportunity for us to embrace our team globally. It really reminds us of who we are as two-thirds of our staff is located outside the United States.”

Not including the LHM staff from the headquarters in St. Louis, more than 40 people attended each session. During the course of the week, more than 90 people, including international ministry center directors, audience relations staff, accounting staff, volunteers, and even a board member, participated between the morning and evening sessions. By having the trainings virtually, more people were able to attend, which extended our reach beyond just the international directors.

Overall, participants believed this was a positive experience and great learning opportunity as members of LHM’s global family. =

How Can an Endowment Gift Benefit Ministry While Helping You?

W

ould you like to find a way to support the causes that matter most to you even after you leave this earth? With a gift made to our endowment, you can help LHM carry on its mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations— and the Nations to the Church in the years to come while receiving some immediate personal benefits.

• You can leave a legacy that will inspire others.

• The principal of your gift is kept intact and LHM uses the annual earnings, typically income and a portion of the capital growth, to fund current critical needs.

• You can create a named endowment when you make a gift of $10,000 or more.

• You may be entitled to take a charitable income deduction for a gift made today.

Learn about the various giving strategies that can help sustain our ministry for the future. Contact us at 1-877-333-1963 or lhm-gift@lhm.org, or visit lhm.org/give.