The Lutheran Layman

THE

LUTHERAN L AYMAN July - August 2018

Engage the

Future see page 3

Celebrate YOUR Ministry . . . . . . . . . 6 Canadian High Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Satellite Programming Kicks Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sentido Latino Makes Strides . . . 11 OMT Reflections on Cambodia. . 15 Bible Studies to Debut . . . . . . . . . . . 18 LWML Grant to LHM. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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SPEAKING UP

by Rev. Dr. Dale A. Meyer as heard on The Lutheran Hour

Every Preacher Knows the Feeling “Lord, to whom shall we go?

You have the words of eternal life”

(John 6:68).

F

or 12 years I was privileged to serve as Speaker of The Lutheran Hour. The Speaker before me was Dr. Oswald Hoffmann. He was an amazing man who communicated the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a clear, inviting way. He once told me about a trip he made to Vietnam during that war. He was scheduled to preach to the troops, but he said he was having a tough time coming up with what to say. Of course, he wanted to tell them about Jesus, but how?

Every preacher knows the feeling. With this problem in the back of his mind, he was visiting casually with some of the troops. One of them said, “I can’t wait to get back to real life.”

“That’s it,” Dr. Hoffmann said. That’s the way to present the Good News of Jesus. What you’re experiencing now, as terrible as war is, is real life. It comes from the sinfulness of this world, and sin is real. So also today. What you are experiencing in your life is real life. Don’t wish for an alternate reality.

Of course, he wanted to tell them about Jesus, but how?

Are you a parent struggling with a child? Are you a caregiver running on fumes? Are you a teacher in a tough school, and underpaid at that? Are you a minister worn down by your congregation, discouraged because they’re not showing the love and joy of the Gospel? Are you a social worker or a volunteer at a foodbank? Are you in jail? You’re experiencing life, real and nasty in this world of sinful people. Jesus comes to bring redemption and hope to you, and through you, to the people you serve. In the midst of the day’s problems, throw

yourself into the arms of God. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).

Do you want to grow in your faith? Do you want to grow closer to Jesus? The way forward is to follow Jesus’ example of service and even suffering.

“Whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all” (Mark 10:43-44).

Facing the problems of life head on, disagreeable as they may be, increases your yearning for the Savior and His Word of help and hope. In serving others, even to the point of suffering ourselves, we experience firsthand how sinful this world is, how fundamentally flawed we ourselves are, how we also hurt others despite our best intentions.

In short, when you give up being preoccupied with yourself, the way James and John were, and instead become occupied with real people and real problems, then you start to get it. More and more, it gets into your head and heart how desperately all humanity needs a Savior. In lives of service we see firsthand the necessity of repentance and feel the Savior’s compassion for all people.

Life is a journey: Let us ever walk with Jesus, Follow His example pure, Through a world that would deceive us And to sin our spirits lure.

Onward in His footsteps treading, Pilgrims here, our home above, Full of faith and hope and love, Let us do the Father’s biding.

Faithful Lord, with me abide; I will follow where You guide.

(Lutheran Service Book, 685, 1). n

The way forward is to follow Jesus’ example of service and even suffering.

Reflections ON THE

MESSAGE

New TLH segment featuring discussions and practical life applications for listeners.

Taken from the recent message “Thrown into the Arms of God,” heard on The Lutheran Hour.

L AYMAN The Lutheran

Vol. 89, No. 4 July - August 2018

Dr. Gerald Perschbacher (LL.D.), Editor

•

Andrea Thompson, Layout

Subscription: $5. Printed bi-monthly. 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, 2018 Int’l LLL. LHM Response Center: 1-800-876-9880

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

2 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

LUTHERANHOUR.ORG

Engage the Future

The methods and mediums have changed. The strategies and tactics have evolved.

But the Word of God and His saving message have never subsided.

by Chad Fix

E

These challenges offer tremendous opportunities to proclaim His love to a world with nearly four billion people who are not currently followers of Christ.

xciting and new possibilities for sharing the Gospel have been followed by the International Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries for more than 100 years, while also challenging and encouraging the church and its people to do the same. The methods and mediums have changed. The strategies and tactics have evolved. But the Word of God and His saving message have never subsided.

The world today is quite different from a century ago when 12 laymen met in Milwaukee The dedication of 12 men empowered by the Holy Spirit resulted in the to form this ministry. These lay leaders made a International Lutheran Laymen’s League and eventually Lutheran Hour Ministries. covenant to support the church and its mission to reach the lost and suffering and share the Gospel.

That covenant continues today, but the realities of ministry into the future is based on a strong billion people who are not currently followers a fallen world are closer to our doorsteps than ever message and a continued balanced approach to of Christ. The Lord has given LHM a unique before. It makes our work that much more challenging. understanding of how to reach, equip, and minister Gospel proclamation and evangelistic engagement These challenges offer tremendous opportunities to these individuals. The development and rollout activities that deploy the most relevant tools of the to proclaim His love to a world with nearly four of four strategic ministry priorities to lead this 21st century. see next page The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 3

Engage … from previous page

God has called all laypeople to be powerful witnesses for Christ to their families and communities …

ENERGIZE, EQUIP, AND ENGAGE Laity for Outreach In 1917, 12 lay individuals came together to help support The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in a time of need. And they accomplished their goal!

From those beginnings came a movement of the laity that continues to this day as a significant resource for the church and her mission.

God has called all laypeople to be powerful witnesses for Christ to their families and communities, a belief that has undergirded the entire history of LHM and continues to define our future work with the church. But, according to research, more than half of all Christians today have not shared their faith with even one person in the past year. With such great news to share, why do so many Christians hesitate when it comes to sharing their faith?

By God’s grace, LHM is working to change this dire statistic by providing relevant tools to help congregations and individuals reach their community with the Gospel. LHM supports the outreach efforts of the laity in three vital areas:

Lutheran Hour Ministries has launched several new initiatives to help encourage laypeople to be missionaries in their daily lives:

1. Provide research on how today’s culture is evolving and how Christians and congregations can respond to reach their communities with the Gospel.

• The Online Mission Trip (OMT) experience has expanded beyond just Lutheran classrooms.

Starting with this year’s trip to Cambodia, OMT opens a window to the world for individuals to learn about LHM’s global mission and ministry activities through an interactive website including videos, photos, online curriculum, and discussion questions to allow participants to explore Cambodia’s culture, discover how LHM is meeting the needs of the local population, and reflect on what it means for their daily lives.

2. Equip individuals and groups of all ages to reach out to others in their lives.

3. Develop resources lay members can use to address everyday situations or answer questions about Christianity and faith.

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• Through a new partnership with the Barna Group, an industry leader for insights about faith and culture, research was conducted to better understand the needs of LHM’s constituencies, as well as the general U.S. population and other non-Christians. This bold new collaboration helps inform the annual rollout of LHM products and programs that address very specific needs within the targeted demographics—both for those within the church and those outside of it. With information based around a yearly theme, the product suite for 2018 is geared toward spiritual conversations in the digital age, with 2019 based around households of faith and 2020 on communities of action.

• • Online courses from LHM Learn (lhm.org/learn) allow users to pick a course topic from among a continually growing catalog of more than a dozen offerings, decide when they want to work on it (starting or stopping at their convenience), and enjoy the benefits of LHM’s Gospel-centered materials. Courses come with journals for selfexploration, reflection questions, and blank pages to capture the learner’s thoughts. The free online courses fall into five different faith-strengthening categories: »» 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).

With the rise of smartphones, tablets, and internet-connected media devices, Americans are often spending more time today in the digital realm.

“GROW” GOD’S KINGDOM through Expanded Media Outreach In 1930, LHM made a remarkable investment in Dr. Walter A. Maier’s vision for sharing the Gospel through the weekly use of a cutting-edge technology: Radio! Since the launch of The Lutheran Hour, LHM has always been at the forefront of media-based ministry—from print to television to digital platforms, our organization has led the charge in finding new and exciting ways to share the Gospel through mass communications. But we’re just getting started!

With the rise of smartphones, tablets, and internetconnected media devices, Americans are often spending more time today in the digital realm. This media trend greatly impacts how Americans consume media as well. Delayed gratification is a thing of the past as we can now enjoy our favorite movies, television shows, or radio programs any time we want.

With the growing expansion of high-speed internet access, researchers predict that viewing media that is time-shifted (media that is available whenever and wherever we desire) will become the norm for most people. The growth in this desire for timeshifted content among Baby Boomers and younger generations has created an opportunity for LHM to offer a variety of quality on-demand podcasts for a new generation of listeners.

In Spring 2018, LHM embarked on a new venture—a podcast network. The network will offer 10 podcasts designed to target current LHM supporters as well as a new audience of young Christians. LHM is leveraging the experience gained by producing a milestone of American broadcast history—The Lutheran Hour—to boldly step into the future. While this program continues to be a powerful tool for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ as a core program of LHM, it is now joined by additional programs that can be streamed on demand to meet the needs of an everchanging digital landscape.

The network’s newest podcast, Sentido Latino (see article on page 11), addresses the needs of a growing subset of the Spanish-speaking U.S. population: Latinos (people from Latin America). This 15-20 minute, biweekly podcast encourages and assists Latinos as they navigate two very different U.S. cultures—the American, with its stress on economic and secular enterprises, and the Latino, with its concern for relationships, community, and spiritual matters. Tackling issues from a Latino-Christian

worldview, the program helps listeners tap into the rich heritage of wisdom the Latino culture has at its disposal—principles that will help guide these individuals through tough moral and relational challenges.

LHM has and will continue to explore ways in which it might bring expanded accessibility to the Gospel through media outreach. Through both in-house and external resources, LHM studies and fosters potential new media programming based on two critical elements: relevant, real world content and mass communication platforms that are efficient and effective. see next page The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 5

Engage … from previous page

Globally, billions have never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ Close to 90 percent of mission endeavors by North Americans is done among people who already have access to the Good News of Jesus Christ. LHM takes a different path, working in areas where the Gospel is not widespread by focusing on three key emphases: 1. Unreached People: As an evangelistic organization, a priority should be people groups (or people) who have little or no possibility of hearing the Gospel. As a mass communications ministry, LHM is uniquely poised to reach beyond those areas where Christ is already known, to those among whom relatively little effort is being made by most American mission agencies.

BRING THE GOSPEL TO THE UNREACHED Around the World From a global perspective, the goal of LHM’s work is to share the life-transforming Gospel of Jesus through ministry centers opened in strategic locations around the world. The advantage of this ministry center model is that each location is staffed by local Christians, who grew up as cultural insiders, know the local language(s), and know how to best communicate the Gospel in ways that are understandable in their culture. Several tactics are employed by each ministry center to reach people through radio broadcasts, print media, digital media, events, and more. This culturally relevant approach allows deep relationships to form and grow that are maintained and expanded over time.

2. Urban Areas: Most of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, and the urban areas will continue to grow in proportion to the rural population worldwide; yet, much missionary effort is in rural areas. Urban areas present greater challenges in many ways; however, as a media organization we have the experience, expertise, and the tools to reach the world’s large cities with the Gospel.

Globally, billions have never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through expanded radio and online ministry, as well as strategic personal and holistic outreach, LHM reaches millions more with this life-saving message. A variety of accomplishments have transpired during the past three years to provide hope for people who have not heard the Good News of Jesus Christ: • LHM has expanded its efforts to several more countries and cities including Mongolia, Turkey, Laos, and Mumbai, India.

• A partnership has been formed with a prominent media organization (SAT-7) to broadcast a new TV program that reaches the majority of the Middle East and North Africa.

• New social media platforms in the Middle East, Europe, and South/Central America have launched and are reaching hundreds of thousands of people with messages of hope and love.

3. Young Adults: Unlike the United States, many countries around the world are experiencing a “population bulge” of younger people. In fact, today more than 50 percent of the world’s population is under the age of 25. The emerging global youth culture is connected in ways unimagined by their parents and has been called “another unreached people group.” We recognize that this growing population is at once open and in need of the lifegiving message of hope that is ours in Christ Jesus.

CELEBRATE YOUR MINISTRY WITH US IN MILWAUKEE

I

nterested in learning more about the work taking place under each of the strategic priorities referenced in this issue’s lead article? It’s not too late to join hundreds of mission-minded individuals at the historic Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee, August 3-5, for an exciting weekend! By attending this event, you will be part of the celebration of what God is doing through Lutheran Hour Ministries around the world—all because of generous members like you!

The weekend offers opportunities to be energized by mission and ministry, time to reconnect with friends you may only see at Int’l LLL conventions every couple years, and to hear about the bold vision that will carry LHM’s laity-driven ministry forward to new generations.

Celebrate the many blessings that God has bestowed on this ministry by seeing firsthand the impact that your support is making. You can interact with and hear compelling updates from staff, volunteers, and individuals who have been mightily affected through the ministry work. Some of Saturday’s program highlights will allow you to: 6 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

• Talk with ministry staff from Jamaica, Lebanon, Liberia, Paraguay, and Sri Lanka about culturally-relevant ways the Gospel is being shared; • Hear touching holistic outreach stories about refugees in the Middle East and how LHM brings messages of love and hope; • Learn about new tools and resources to ignite online conversations with younger generations who may have drifted away from or never been involved with the church; • See how new programming is streamed on demand to meet the needs of an ever-changing digital landscape; • Find out how easy it is to get involved in online faithstrengthening courses which you can start and stop at your convenience.

In addition to being uplifted by ministry, the weekend also offers opportunities to enjoy fellowship time with friends and family. Friday evening kicks off with the sounds of Five Star Roscoe, a band comprised of members of Concordia Lutheran Church in Kirkwood, Missouri, that plays a wide

ENGAGE COMMUNITIES in a New Digital Mission Field It’s a question our ministry staff hears every day from supporters just like you: What are you doing to ensure my kids and grandkids won’t fall away from the church? As a result, LHM has lifted this concern up as a future focus of ministry.

The world is no longer going online; it is online. Younger generations spend much time active on the internet through Facebook, YouTube, and countless other websites and social media platforms. The internet promises instant online connection and community; however, studies show that people are becoming more isolated than ever.

LHM is uniquely called to fill this void. We have declared the digital realm as a third mission field (in addition to international and the United States) where there is potential to reach a very different audience that is unreached and/or disconnected from the church. By intentionally developing a strategy focused on these younger generations, the simple intention was to create conversation and opportunity in the digital space to gain a hearing for the Gospel.

After extensive research, LHM launched THRED, a network of online content that ignites conversations with non-churched people on digital platforms to create connections that lead to community. The unique approach of LHM to digital evangelism is that we not only plan to proclaim the Gospel and pique interest in the Good News that Jesus brings to every person, but we also plan to provide tools and mechanisms that allow for further connections and relationship building. Reaching non-churched people with the Gospel through this realm is not easy. However, through THRED, the work of maintaining connections online and facilitating live contact with Christian individuals and communities offers enormous potential for reaching generations of people who have not heard about Christ … and the results are eternal!

Since THRED’s launch in February 2017, more than 3.5 million unique impressions of content (on Facebook, YouTube, and THRED’s website) have been

The world is no longer GOING online; IT IS online.

made with an additional hundreds of thousands of posts, shares, likes, and two-way dialogue. THRED has established a forum within which LHM can engage with non-churched people and have constructive discussions that open people’s eyes to Jesus and His love for all.

LHM is reaching more than 70 million people each week, but the need for Gospel proclamation is greater than ever. As the Holy Spirit guides us to boldly step out in faith and proclaim the Gospel faithfully, lovingly, accurately, clearly, and understandably, we can be assured that the Lord will do His work with His message in His way. Our prayer is that you will join us—with your advocacy, your support, and your heartfelt prayers. LHM has always been an organization based around its members. Get involved in God’s plan for this ministry! Thrill to the marvels He has in store for us and the world! n Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

by Chad Fix variety of music from bands such as Fleetwood Mac, Johnny Cash, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tom Petty, and more (the band also will provide worship music throughout Saturday’s program). A Saturday morning breakfast will feature an international flair and the evening’s gala event will energize you to be part of a movement that is a modern expression of the Great Commission.

Visit lhm.org/celebration today to sign up for this special weekend of activities. Registration is just $199 per person (adults 18 and older) and $75 for youth under age 18 and includes dinner on Friday night, breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday, and a continental breakfast on Sunday. Lodging is not included in this conference price; check the website for more information on available rooms at the Pfister Hotel or the Hilton Milwaukee City Center (a few blocks away with shuttle service back and forth to the Pfister throughout the weekend).

LHM.ORG/CELEBRATION

SUNDAY’S SENDING SERVICE The weekend will conclude with a 10 a.m. sending service Sunday led by Rev. Dr. John A. Nunes where God’s Word will be mightily proclaimed. Nunes currently is the ninth president of Concordia College-New York. He served for two years as the Emil and Elfriede Jochum Chair at Valparaiso University before assuming the Concordia presidency on July 1, 2016.

Nunes, an ordained LCMS minister, was president and chief executive officer of Lutheran World Relief (LWR), Baltimore, from 2007 to 2013. LWR is an international, non-profit organization working to end poverty and injustice worldwide. Prior to joining LWR, Nunes taught theology at Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Ill., and served as a management consultant, urban parish pastor, and community organizer in Dallas and Detroit.

Nunes is the author of Voices from the City: Issues and Images of Urban Preaching and, with his wife, Monique, the children’s book Little Things Make Big Differences: A Story about Malaria. n The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 7

Director Klinck Recalls High Points in Ministry

by Gerald Perschbacher

Congratulations and best wishes began streaming to Stephen Klinck soon after he mentioned his pending retirement as managing director of the LLL of Canada office in Kitchener, Ontario. The following is an interview with the editor of The Lutheran Layman.

EDITOR: Well, my friend, you are approaching the Golden Era of Retirement.

CONGRATULATIONS and BLESSINGS! Can you spend a few moments and ponder your career with LHM? KLINCK: I joined the staff of Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada as the Manager of Field Services on September 1, 1986. My primary responsibilities were to work with Congregational Reps, LLL Groups, and congregations. Later, my responsibilities broadened to include supervision of office operations, finances, and The Lutheran Hour on Canadian stations. In 1990 my title was shortened to Manager, then in 1996 to Managing Director, following my esteemed co-worker Garry Ritter who had been serving in that position.

A real joy and privilege has been the use of opportunities and resources to share the Good News of Jesus Christ …

What do you consider to be some significant achievements during your tenure?

Much of the work now done with computers and electronic technology was done manually. People contacted us by mail or telephone, not email or text.

The Lutheran Hour on radio and This is the Life on television offered mementoes to audiences, so requests needed to be filled. Over the years communication with our supporters and the congregations changed. Today, people can use the internet and social media to access our programs and resources.

Originally, the traditional method of passing organizational information was from LLL Governor to LLL District President to LLL Zones and on to the LLL congregational Ambassador (Rep) who then informed the congregation. Today, we send information directly to an Ambassador or even individual members/ supporters. While the old system may have been less efficient, it did foster a camaraderie and fellowship that has been a wonderful blessing.

… it is a privilege to call them brothers and sisters in Christ—and also my friends.

8 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

When I began, we offered and produced a French language radio program Au Pays de Vivant and aired This is The Life plus seasonal specials on television.

Over the years a great variety of resources developed, giving us opportunities to work more closely with congregations of the LCMS and, after its formation, Lutheran Church–Canada. By the grace of God and with the efforts and financial support of His people, medicines were collected and shipped to Ukraine; co-operative Parish Media Team workshops were conducted across Canada; so were Equipping To Share and Mission U seminars; Regional Outreach Conferences were co-hosted with LCC; we translated Project Connect booklets and seasonal devotions into French and Chinese; funding was provided for the Russian Catechism project as well as tsunami relief in Thailand; and now we are able to share in Gospel outreach work in Nicaragua. LLL Canada developed SolasAlive.com and ServingWithJoy.net as tools for use in Canada to share the Good News of Jesus through social media. We have been granted auxiliary status with LCC and have been able to support some of its efforts like the Reformation 500 celebration and its National Youth Gatherings.

Stephen, what have you liked the most in your work?

A real joy and privilege has been the use of opportunities and resources to share the Good News of Jesus Christ—and to encourage and train others to do the same! My work has placed me in the midst of God’s people: the people we reach with our programs who contact us looking for more information or a local congregation. These are incredibly faithful and generous people whose prayers and financial support make this work possible. This includes volunteers from the congregations through the zones, districts, national and international Boards of Directors, my co-workers in Canada—also in the USA and, in fact, around the world. These people have been so gracious and helpful … it is a privilege to call them brothers and sisters in Christ—and also my friends.

What awaits you in retirement?

More time with my wife Rhonda and our family. I hope to attend more activities with our grandchildren.

Maybe ride our motorcycle more often, and perhaps do additional travel. Who knows, I may even play more

When You Shop, It has been an incredible blessing to meet and work with the men and women of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries. rounds of golf and a few more ends of curling! I do look forward to having more flexibility in my schedule, but I expect to continue to be active in my congregation, community, the greater church and, of course, the Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada.

What farewell statement can you share with our readers, all with whom you have associated, and those reached via ministry?

As this Gospel outreach mission that God has entrusted to us continues to move forward, may we, in faith, remember God’s blessings and lessons in our past, live to the fullest in this time and place utilizing the blessings He has given us, and look to the opportunities He will bring in the future.

It has been an incredible blessing to meet and work with the men and women of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries.

You are some of God’s finest! Your passion for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ has, and still encourages and inspires me. You have shown me Christian love and friendship that I will always treasure. For that, I thank God and you.

Churchman As we move forward, I have no doubt you will Ian Adnams show that same love and friendship to my successor, congratulates Lisa Jackson.

May God our heavenly Father keep you Klinck. strong in your faith in Lord Jesus the Christ—and may He continue to bless each and every one of you, to make you a blessing to Him and His people. n Dr. Gerald Perschbacher serves as editor of The Lutheran Layman and manages the LHM Research Center Archives.

Gives! by Chad Fix

More and more Americans are embracing a trend that has changed the dynamics of how we buy goods and services. In fact, we are shopping online now about as often as we take out the trash.

About a third of adults buy something on a computer or phone at least once per week, which these days includes everything from groceries to prescription refills and mattresses to cell phones. A recent survey shows that 43 percent of these online sales are done through Amazon.

Now when you shop on Amazon, you can support the causes you love at the same time! AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon that lets customers enjoy the same wide selection of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as Amazon.com. The difference is that when customers shop on AmazonSmile (smile.amazon.com), the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the price of eligible purchases to a charitable organization selected by customers. There is no cost to the charitable organization or the customer to participate in this program.

When first visiting AmazonSmile, customers are prompted to select a charitable organization from almost one million eligible organizations before beginning their browsing or shopping. Then, every time you start your online shopping experience at smile.amazon.com, a portion of the purchase price of every eligible item you buy will be given to the charity you have chosen! You can even change your charitable organization of choice at any time.

Lutheran Hour Ministries is an eligible organization for you to support on AmazonSmile. All the shopping that you do for friends and family throughout the year can create a massive impact for ministry! You can support LHM’s mission today by shopping at smile.amazon.com. n

Now Available!

Technology and rapid cultural shifts may have altered the face of evangelism, but the call to bring Christ to the nations remains.

Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age, produced in partnership with Barna Group, is available NOW! GREAT FOR CHURCH LEADERS!

Order your copy today! barna.com/spiritualconversations

LLL Canada presented a book to seminarians in their first year of study at Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary in St. Catharines, Ontario, last fall.

Left to right: Klinck, Paulo Winterle, and Rev. Ndriana Rakotoarimah.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 9

Satellite TV Programming Kicks Off in Mid-East, North Africa

by Chad Fix

S

occer is now considered by many to be the “global game” that is the top sport on every corner of the planet. The FIFA World Cup™, the biggest and most-watched sports event in the world, is soccer’s showcase event, drawing massive global attention.

More than 3.2 billion people tuned in for the 2014 tournament, with a large percentage of viewers being youth and young adults under the age of 40.

The significant interest in this event presents a unique opportunity to reach an audience whose eyes will be glued to televisions during the 2018 tournament taking place June 14 through July 15.

This is why SAT-7 decided to capitalize on the national enthusiasm being created over Egypt’s qualification for the 2018 World Cup by kicking off the airings of Power Bank on June 22 with a program focused on the World Cup. This new satellite television program (see photos) is being produced through a partnership between SAT-7, the first and largest Middle East and North African Christian TV network, and Lutheran Hour Ministries to address some of the concerns amongst disillusioned youth in the Middle East and North Africa whose lives are often filled with emptiness.

The weekly, 60-minute variety show dramatizes real-life problems and struggles for young people and their families. Some of the concerns being addressed through the programs include struggles with relationships, romantic and inter-generational;

economic uncertainty and employment challenges; pessimism about their future and stability of the region; and exploring the doubt and uncertainty many have in their faith. Many doubt God’s grace and forgiveness and are uncertain of their role in life and God’s intention for them.

“We pray this television outreach will bring God’s love and mercy to millions of young Arab viewers who have really been suffering these past few years and are questioning their faith and place in society,” says Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt, LHM’s executive director of international ministries. “Hearing about God who loves them, from the privacy of their own homes, may be the only opportunity for many youth and young adults to hear this message at all.”

Taped on multiple sets, each broadcast features a presenter directing the various program segments that include comedic dramas and skits, musical or comedy guests, and sitdown interviews and/or discussion.

Between segments, dramatized video clips will air, and the themes introduced in each clip are then explored deeper during the interview portions of the broadcast—with Christian values being communicated throughout each segment of the broadcast.

More than 40 people are involved in each production, including cameramen, actors, writers, and backstage production crew—making it one of the more ambitious projects that SAT-7 has ever produced. Kyro is

10 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

“We pray this television outreach will bring God’s love and mercy to millions of young Arab viewers who have really been suffering … and are questioning their faith and place in society.” one of the actors discovered by SAT-7 producers while participating in a church-sponsored program. While he has received many opportunities to act in secular programs, he often turns them down after reviewing the scripts because he only wants to work with programming that is focused on youth and helpful to others. He believes the messaging of Power Bank can have a lasting impact on the region.

“I enjoy doing comedy because it connects with people more easily, especially youth,” says Kyro. “Comedy with a purpose connects people when done right. There is a lot of responsibility for us to create impactful and hopeful content for each show while making it

easy to consume. All too often comedy done in the wrong way can end up misguiding young people.”

Now that the broadcasts have begun on the NileSat satellite, SAT-7 will air each episode five times per week for 26 weeks through January 2019. The series will be rebroadcast from early spring through summer 2019 with season two of new episodes planned to launch that fall. The broadcast has the potential of reaching tens of millions of viewers in more than 20 countries spanning from as far west as Morocco to as far east as Iraq and the Persian Gulf. n

See more about Satellite TV and the LWML on page 19!

Sentido Latino Podcast Connecting with Listeners by Paul Schreiber

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n April 26, Lutheran Hour Ministries’ newest podcast, Sentido Latino, aired its first Spanishlanguage program entitled, “Who Are We … The Hispanics?” The bi-weekly podcast is hosted by Rev. Luciano Vega-Ayala and Deaconess Noemi Guerra.

Together they focus on issues facing Latinos as they culturally integrate into the United States, discussing values that characterize and shape Latino family, spiritual, and community life.

Since its launch, Sentido Latino podcasts have addressed single moms, cultural identity, raising kids, and feelings of inferiority. Early responses to the show have been favorable: “The program is not only super interesting because of the topic, but I also found it super dynamic ... I will continue listening ... the enthusiasm is contagious. Keep going with this project,” noted a Canadian listener. A listener from San Antonio, Texas, was similarly excited: “Thank you for sharing words of encouragement and important information ... this program is very educational and fun ... I’m watching your programs ... Thanks!”

The exchanges between Vega-Ayala and Guerra are lively and on point. In an upcoming podcast, “The American Dream,” they discuss the continued pull of immigrants to the U.S. in search of a better life. Citing author James Truslow Adams’ 1931 book, The Epic of America, Vega-Ayala notes Adams’ words on how a successful and fulfilled life in the U.S. is more than

just attaining material wealth. Rather, it’s a “dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position.”

Guerra maintains the dream begins long before one lands on U.S. soil. “The American dream already begins before arriving in the U.S. While ... I will continue still in our countries, we start thinking about listening ... the how life will be different when we get here. enthusiasm is So, now that we have achieved the first part by getting here, let’s define the American dream contagious. we want to achieve; then let’s make a plan to American dream? Is it possible to get it? And if so, at achieve it, and put it into practice.” what cost?

Host comments focus on the practical and real• “Four Principles for Raising Our Children” (8-2-18): life issues that are facing immigrant Latinos, with This program continues with the second part of the messages grounded in Scripture and pointing toward program on raising children, and offers four more God’s work of love and redemption in Christ. principles to share with listeners.

Going forward in July, the next three programs are: Program notes for each podcast of Sentido Latino • “Strategies to Control Anger” (7-5-18): While all add value by introducing the topic, providing bulletpeople get angry, not everyone reacts in the same points for the program, offering website links and way. This program will talk about four strategies to other resources, and supplying quotes or images that help listeners express their anger in an appropriate can be shared via Facebook and other social media. The and constructive way. program can be found online at sentidolatino.com. n • “The American Dream” (7-19-18): When Latinos come to the U.S., many do so with the idea of Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work achieving the “American Dream.” But what is that in the United States.

LHM ELECTION RESULTS ANNOUNCED More than two-thirds of Lutheran Hour Ministries’ registered voting members cast ballots in the recent election to fill seats on the organization’s Board of Directors. Jack Ficken of Fairview, Tennessee, Gretchen Jameson of Muskego, Wisconsin, and Phillip Johnson of Maplewood, Minnesota, were all re-elected to an additional three-year term on the Board. Voting members also elected Jonathan Laabs of Roselle, Illinois, and Karen Soeken of Ellicott City, Maryland, to fill the remaining two open positions.

Based on a bylaws change approved by the membership in 2017, this was the first year where a separate vote no longer took place for the officer positions of chairman or vice chairman. The Board will now appoint these officer positions for the next year from among sitting Board members (just as the Board has previously done for the officer positions of secretary and treasurer).

Thanks to everyone who participated this year in the election process!

Want to vote in 2019? Members of LCMS or LCC congregations who give to LHM between July 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2018, will be eligible to register for next year’s voting membership. Look for a postcard in the mail in early February 2019 with details on how you can register to vote before the March 15 deadline, so you can participate in next spring’s election.

New Canadian Board Member Appointed The Board has appointed Edith Schoepp of Onoway, Alberta to fill the vacancy created by Andreas Schwabe’s recent resignation. She will serve the remainder of Schwabe’s three-year term that expires in 2020. LHM bylaws require at least one member of the Board to UR TH AN K YO U FO R YO be a resident of Canada and a member of a Lutheran Church—Canada congregation. n

New Spanish Podcast

Sentido Latino deals with the cultural, moral, and relational challenges that the Hispanics who live in the United States face in their daily lives.

Hosted by Rev. Luciano VegaAyala and Deaconess Noemi Guerra

Listen to new episodes on iTunes today!

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 11

BIG SUCCESS for 1

This annual event draws inspiration from Jesus and His disciples—to get into the world and help the needy with acts of outreach and compassion.

12 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

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2018 Men’s NetWork WORK DAY

by Paul Schreiber

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or the sixth year in a row, men’s groups and other teams have made the last Saturday in April a day of service to their communities. This year the Men’s NetWork WORK DAY saw more than 600 participants engaged in local, communityoriented service projects on April 28. This annual event draws inspiration from Jesus and His disciples—to get into the world and help the needy with acts of outreach and compassion. In other words, be Jesus’ hands

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and feet in action—visible and caring—in the world.

Projects don’t have to be complicated, high tech, or involve special tools and skills. They can be as modest as picking up trash and beautifying outdoor areas—this is something that’s easy to do and positively impacts public spaces in a hurry. It’s also something that everyone using those areas is quick to notice.

In a WORK DAY devotion posted to YouTube, Pastor Ed Blonski of St. Matthew Lutheran Church and School, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois, puts it plainly: “One of the things that we do as a men’s ministry at St. Matthew is to do a WORK DAY where we can get out of our normal routine of Bible study on Saturday mornings, and into the community and helping them.”

His group spent a brisk Saturday morning tidying up some outdoor community spaces at a public-use lake in the area.

In other parts of the country, some of this year’s WORK DAY efforts included splitting wood in Wisconsin; landscaping and yard work, building repairs, storage building clear-

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outs, and item disposal in Virginia; providing meals to underserved folks or the homeless in California and Kansas; installing playground equipment at an Indiana daycare facility; repairing classroom and common area spaces for Nebraska teachers and kids; picking up trash along nature trails and sprucing up walking paths in Missouri, New York, and Illinois; and even building a home entrance ramp for someone in Texas.

There were a number of groups that launched their WORK DAY event with some sort of breakfast or brunch to fortify the troops before their work. (An excellent idea as food draws people, and there’s nothing like rallying around some bacon and eggs before the work begins!) In some instances, dollars from Thrivent Financial were used to supplement work supplies or food for the crews.

The pictures here help tell the story. These are some of the groups that engaged their communities with projects and sacrificed some time and muscle to be the hands and feet of Christ to others on April 28. n

… be Jesus’ hands and feet in action—visible and caring—in the world.

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1. Trinity Lutheran Church, Altenburg, Missouri 2. Redeemer Lutheran Church, Austin, Texas 3. St. Paul Lutheran Church, Stevens Point, Wisconsin 4. Emmanuel Lutheran Church, York, Nebraska 5. St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois 6. St. John’s Lutheran Church, Alexandria, Virginia 7. Zion Lutheran Church, Hillsboro, Kansas The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 13

A New View of LHM’s International Work by Chad Fix

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e learn best by doing, by seeing, and by talking with others to gain knowledge. By so doing, we gain deeper understandings. To provide a firsthand experience of international efforts, Lutheran Hour Ministries sends a few board members on one trip a year to visit several ministry centers. This allows them to learn about LHM’s international work and further equips them as advocates by providing firsthand knowledge and understanding. This results in a direct opportunity to witness and participate in LHM’s mission. Information is then shared with other board members to assist in developing long-term visioning.

From April 26 through May 6, board members Phil Johnson, Jan Wendorf, and Paul Pettit traveled with LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz, International Ministries Executive Director Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt, and Regional Director Rev. Peter Kirby to visit LHM ministry centers in Latvia and Russia. The team met with staff members in each country, toured the ministry center facilities, and heard reports about the work.

While in Latvia, the team visited Dubulti Church to participate in the national Cleaning Day taking place throughout the country. The group helped local people clean up the surroundings of the church and nearby seaside forest allowing brothers and sisters in Christ to work alongside new friends. Later that day, Pastor Rolands Eimanis presented a seminar on “Good Mood Training,” which focused on subjects

such as movement, communication, and spirituality.

The group attended services at Turaida Lutheran congregation near Sigulda, part of the Turaida Castle museum. Board members reflected on how meditative and meaningful their communion service was with the Latvian Church.

In St. Petersburg, Russia, the group visited the Kitezhgrad Ethno-Cultural Center, where children are encouraged to develop artistic skills. LHM–Russia has worked on joint projects with these children to illustrate posters, calendars, and children’s Bible course books. A visit to the Jan Comensky Center at Peterschule German Elementary School brought up the challenges of reforming the Russian educational system after Perestroika ended in the 1990s. The final stop was a tour of St. Maria Lutheran Church, the flagship congregation of Ingria Lutheran Church.

Pastor Michael Ivanov spoke about his congregation’s work with LHM–Russia and the challenges after Communism.

“Board members also were able to see historical and cultural sites about the cultures of the people among whom LHM works in these countries,” says Kirby. “These visits provided context for understanding the unique ministries that are offered.

Board members were very encouraged by the visits, the hard work, and dedication of LHM staff in these two countries.” n

“Board members were very encouraged by the visits, the hard work, and dedication of LHM staff …”

Biblically Based Values Reach Panama Youth by Chad Fix Panama’s economic growth has been applauded, but the country faces increasing crime and violence, particularly in highly populated urban areas. A large majority of perpetrators and victims are under age 26.

Because of broken families and secularism, many receive little moral or spiritual education at home. Their values often are shaped by negative influences through the media, music, or peers.

Lutheran Hour Ministries’ global strategy includes reaching youth via Project JOEL in a growing number of countries. In 1996, the program began in Panama. JOEL stands for Jóvenes con Espíritu Libre, or “youth with a free spirit.” It is designed to provide biblically based guidance for healthy lifestyle choices. In Panama, Project JOEL has been integrated into school curricula (see photo). It supplements educational content by incorporating opportunities for sporting and cultural events.

Celebrating Earth Day in April is an example of how Project JOEL can highlight values children can use every day. Ministry staff and volunteers

shared information with students at various schools and preschools around the theme of creation and the value each animal and plant has for life.

Children learned responsibility, respect, and cooperation as they saw how to protect the planet’s

natural resources by becoming part of the solution to minimize pollution.

In conjunction with educators, LHM–Panama staff and volunteers complemented the teaching with activities: group games, songs, and reading materials plus the occasional use of the puppets of El Clan de Memo. While applying education in values, the ministry makes it a priority to share the teachings of the Word of God. “We emphasize our responsibility in the care of the earth, starting from the simplest things in the home, in the school, and in the community,” said one LHM volunteer. “Students are empowered by the message that they can help the planet by ‘not messing up,’ by consuming only what is necessary, by sharing, and by taking good care of resources.”

Project JOEL has impacted tens of thousands of students in Panama over the past 20-plus years and has been recognized by the Ministry of Justice in Panama for its positive influence on youth. n

“Students are empowered by the message that they can help the planet …”

14 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

LHM Learn Courses Explore Psalms, Visit Cambodia by Paul Schreiber

… the Psalms are a treasure trove of Scripture that Christians can pull from daily for their walk of faith. new Spiritual Reflections course from LHM Learn, Psalms of Thanks II, is now available. Of the many types of psalms composed—praise, supplication, petition, devotion, to name a few—psalms of thanks rank among the most beloved. As short, poetical declarations of God’s work as Creator and Savior of the universe, or as intimate longings of personal reflection and desire, the Psalms are a treasure trove of Scripture that Christians can pull from daily for their walk of faith.

A journal for personal use with artwork by Erika Radke and psalms set to music by Lilyfields adds beauty and depth to this five-day course on responding to God in thanks for all He is and does. Following the day’s

opening prayer, participants will read or listen to the text; meditate on its message in song; pray for guidance in responding to His Word; contemplate what God is revealing through His Word; and finally, take action by seeking a reallife, real-time application of the day’s message for their lives here and now.

There are other great courses to explore, too. Tapping into Lutheran Hour Ministries’ very successful Online Mission Trips (OMT), LHM Learn has adapted the 2018 OMT trip to Cambodia as a Cultural Concept course.

Here in words, pictures, and video, participants will explore the history, geography, culture, people, wildlife, religion, and exuberant wonder of this fascinating Southeast Asian nation.

In this course, participants will see how this part of the world is being served through the dedicated work of LHM’s ministry center in Phnom Penh City. In a world far from ours, the Gospel is being shared, lives are being transformed, and God is drawing believers into His fold. At their journey’s end, participants will possess a greater appreciation of this fascinating country and better understand the important Gospel-oriented work Lutheran Hour Ministries is conducting there.

All LHM Learn online courses are FREE and only need your registration to use. To sign up and take advantage of these excellent faith-building courses, go to lhm.org/learn and make your

choices. Don’t forget that you can start and stop courses mid-stream, returning later to where you left off, so they are ideal for people with busy schedules.

These courses are just right for sharing, too. With courses centered on Christian Foundations, Cultural Concepts, Everyday Insights, Outreach Essentials, and Spiritual Reflections, it’s easy to suggest them to others so they can take advantage of them, too. They’re readily adaptable to be worked on in small groups or with spouses, new believers, kids in high school or college, and friends.

Send the link above to someone you care about and get them started on the road to learning more about God and the tremendous love He has for us! n

I will give thanks to You, LORD, with all my heart. PSALM 9:1

The newest addition to our LHM Learn library is designed to further explore the Psalms that are filled with expressions of gratitude, joy, and praise to God.

Find this course and more for FREE at lhm.org/learn today!

LHM LEARN: Psalms of Thanks II

Av N aila O b W le !

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 15

Wilke Honored by Seminary A

high honor was conferred on Rev. Ray Wilke, a co-founder of Orphan Grain Train, as he received the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree during commencement ceremonies at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, May 18. Wilke is president of Orphan Grain Train and pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Norfolk, Nebraska.

In his commencement address, Wilke told 93 students and guests that he was “thrilled about the church.” He said, “Be prepared … to willingly move out of your comfort zone, maybe into dark places, unknown places. Each of you as you go to your calling are going to be moving into unknown places. Allow it to happen. If … the Lord is obviously calling you to do something, do it. Do it even if it’s not comfortable.”

Of the 93 students recognized, 54 earned the Master of Divinity degree, one earned the Master of Arts degree with deaconess certification, 10 earned the Master of Arts degree, and seven students earned a Master of Sacred Theology degree. Eighteen students completed doctoral degrees: 10 earned the Doctor of Ministry degree and eight earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree. Three students

earning their Residential Alternate Route certificates were recognized.

The faculty presented the Christus Vivit Award to Craig and Jane Olson of Orange, Calif., in recognition of exemplary service and presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Dr. Timothy Maschke of Grafton, Wis. Seminary President Dr. Dale Meyer recognized retiring Professor of Exegetical Theology Dr. Paul Raabe and presented an Emeritus Medallion for his seminary service. Meyer told the conferred, “Thank you for sharing your lives with us because all of us, faculty and staff, have been blessed by getting to know you and learning from you.”

Final commencement was held in the seminary chapel instead of outdoors because of rain. This year’s graduates join more than 7,000 called leaders of the LCMS around the world and more than 12,500 individuals who have received degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in the institution’s history.

Visit www.csl.edu/academics/commencement for more details on other honorees and other aspects of the event. n

Rutt Joins Sem Faculty

Three Among Honorees at CTS in Indiana

“The opportunity to work with such dedicated servants of Christ … has been awesome and amazing.”

Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt, who has been in charge of the International Division of Lutheran Hour Ministries for nearly eight years, has accepted a call to Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, to serve as provost and professor. His official transition came on July 1.

“I have been blessed to be a part of LHM,” said Rutt. “The opportunity to work with such dedicated servants of Christ … in St. Louis and around the world, has been awesome and amazing.” He added that “going to the seminary affords me the opportunity 16 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

to be involved again in theological education, where I spent a great deal of my career prior to my time at LHM.” Before coming to Lutheran Hour Ministries, Rutt was a professor on the faculty of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

In thanking Rutt for his years with LHM, Kurt Buchholz, LHM president and CEO, noted Rutt’s dedication as “a valued and integral member of our senior leadership team” which “allowed us to intensify efforts in many countries that were previously unreached by the Gospel.” He concluded, “We recognize that this new call is part of God’s perfect plan for utilizing Dr. Rutt’s skills.” n

“If … the Lord is obviously calling you to do something, DO IT.”

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everal individuals received special honors at the graduation ceremonies of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana, May 18.

Among them were Rev. Dr. David Rakotonirina, president of Fiangonana Loterana Malagasy, in Madagascar, and Bishop Risto Soramies, First Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland, based in Helsinki, who both received the Doctor of Divinity degree (honoris causa). The honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree was granted to Dr. Bruce G. Kintz, president and CEO of Concordia Publishing House in St. Louis, Missouri.

At the conferral ceremonies, the Alumnus of the Year honor went to Rev. Richard L. Woelmer, pastor at University Lutheran Church in Bloomington, Indiana.

This year’s baccalaureate and commencement marked the seminary’s 172nd year. Interested parties who could not attend were encouraged to watch the exercises online at www.ctsfw.edu/daily-chapel or www.facebook.com/ctsfw.

Serving as baccalaureate preacher was Rev. Arlo W. Pullmann of Laurel, Montana. A commencement organ recital was offered by Kantor Matthew Machemer. Rev. Dr. Timothy C. J. Quill was speaker at the commencement. n

ON THE MOVE

by Phil Johnson, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

God’s Gift of Vision

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alt Disney died five years before Walt Disney World opened.

It now covers over 43 square miles with four theme parks, two water parks, 27 hotels, golf courses, a camping resort, and other venues. When it opened in 1971, someone quipped, “It’s just too bad Walt didn’t live to see this.” An official replied, “He DID see this!

THAT’S why it’s here!” That’s the power of vision.

Our vision isn’t wishful thinking. God-ordained vision focuses us beyond self and circumstance, motivating people to action that requires stretching and risk-taking. In Habakkuk 2:2 the prophet is told: “Write the vision; make it clear on tablets so that anyone can read it quickly.” Through godly vision, others will also clearly see.

Godly vision is comprised of two features: first, perception, the ability to see circumstances with clarity. In Matthew 13:16, Jesus says, “Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.” The ability to perceive clearly is a gift from God. Vision’s second feature is the ability to see what might be. In Isaiah 43:19, the Lord God says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” Foresight is the ability to see what could

“Write the vision; make it clear on tablets to that anyone can read it quickly.”

be, if we change direction. A ship leaving the harbor with a small change in its heading, when carried the width of an ocean, will bring it far from the intended destination. Jesus said in Luke 9:62, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Disciples with vision focus on what is ahead.

Consider two questions. First: What do I perceive?

Ask God for the gift of perception through His eyes.

The world would have us think we are insignificant when compared to forces aligned against us. Don’t be discouraged. “The Message” by Eugene Peterson paraphrases the end of Ephesians 1: Christ “is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this Christ rules the Church. The Church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the Church.” The Church is at the very center of all that is happening in the world. The Gospel and making disciples of Jesus are at the very heartbeat of world events. Can you see it?

Now, a second question: What will this look like in one or two generations? I understand that the only one who can answer such a question with certainty is the One “who is, who was, and who is to come” (Rev. 4:8), so I encourage a different question: What would God like this scene to look like? In 1 Timothy 2:4, we read

that God wants all people “to be saved and to learn the truth.” In Luke 14:23, the master of the banquet told his servants to “go to the roads and paths! Urge the people to come to My house. I want it to be full.”

Helen Keller said, “Worse than being blind would be to be able to see but not have any vision.” I agree. What is my vision? What do I perceive? I see ministry support translated into expanded Gospel proclamation around the world. I see new believers in Jesus connected to congregations to be nurtured and encouraged. I see the next generation engaged in spirit-led conversations that encourage lives of faith in Jesus as the only way of salvation.

The future for Lutheran Hour Ministries? I see every nation, language, and people with the opportunity to see this world with vision that only comes from God by the power of His Word and Sacraments. I see LHM resources, support, and encouragement lifting up tens of thousands of people every week who multiply those resources by reaching thousands more. When I gather with many of you this August in Milwaukee and I look around, I pray for the gift to perceive Jesus Christ in the middle of everything we are doing and for the foresight to see future generations Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church, all to the glory of God. n

Impact Your World While Helping Your Bottom Line

by Chad Fix Making the decision to support God’s mission often involves deciding how to give your support.

If you’re of a certain age and have an IRA, then you may want to consider making a charitable IRA rollover contribution. The way it works is simple: if you are 70½ or older, you can transfer your IRA distribution directly to a nonprofit like Lutheran Hour Ministries.

For donors with IRA accounts, you can rollover up to $100,000 per year (per individual) directly to charity and impact ministry work without paying tax on the income. Even better, this gift counts toward your annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your IRA! There are some great reasons why making a charitable IRA rollover gifts makes sense: • You can reduce your taxable income.

• You may be able to lower your Social Security tax.

• You can avoid IRS tax limits and make IRA rollover gifts over and above the normal cash gift limit.

• You may be able to make a larger gift than you would otherwise.

• You will know that you’re supporting God’s mission to the world!

The IRA Rollover is a great option for donors who do not need the income from their IRA distribution in the next year. Yet for many Americans, an IRA is one of their main sources of income. That means their IRA is used for all causes from buying groceries to paying the mortgage.

These donors may not be able to consider giving through an IRA Rollover, but they could consider giving their IRA to charity in their will. Depending on your estate, it may be better to give tax-heavy retirement accounts, like IRAs, to charity and leave other assets like life insurance to your family.

The gift planning staff at LHM would love to discuss these and other options with you as you plan your estate. If we can be of service to you, please contact us at 1-877-333-1963 or lhm-gift@lhm.org. n

You will know that you’re supporting God’s mission to the world!

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 17

Bible Studies to Debut in Next Layman

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inched for time? Is your meditation on God’s Word lacking? In the next issue of The Lutheran Layman, the first installment of a four-part Bible study series titled Nurturing Your Faith: Prayer will be featured. These respites in Scripture can give readers a brief (10-to15-minute) excursion from their busy schedules where they can enjoy time in God’s Word. The studies are designed for readers to discover—or rediscover—vital truths in Scripture, and then, with the Holy Spirit’s help, incorporate them into their lives, appreciating and sharing what they discovered. The first study will be on prayers of intercession (offered on behalf of others).

Beginning with this topic in the September-October issue, subsequent studies will target prayers of gratitude, confession, and praise in three consecutive issues. Each Nurturing Your Faith study will include Bible passages, ideas to consider, and questions for reflection.

Those examining intercessory prayer will come away with a fuller grasp of it, even demonstrating this type of prayer in their own meditations. A Resource Corner will offer tips for enhancing the study experience by suggesting complementary LHM video Bible studies or relevant LHM Learn courses that expand the topic.

In addition, The Lutheran Layman will offer an online component. Users will find bonus Bible passages and commentary, along with an 8-10 minute video. The host is Don Everts, LHM’s new content development manager. He will bring his expertise to the table as author of a dozen books on Christian faith as followers of Jesus. He will show how to integrate— in this case, intercessory prayer—into one’s own life of prayer, offering valuable recommendations on implementing and personalizing it as an active, fruitful part of prayer life.

“I am honored to host this new Bible study series, Nurturing Your Faith. There’s nothing like a little unhurried time spent handling God’s Word to encourage us to grow in faith. God gives us His Word to change us and ‘grow’ us and communicate with us. That’s why I’m so excited to be a part of this new series!” Everts said.

After the four installments of Nurturing Your Faith have been completed, they will be compiled into a DVD-based resource that can used as a thematic four-session set for either individual or group use. As with all of LHM’s Christ-centered materials, these Bible studies make excellent tools to share with family and friends. n

Include LHM’s Advent Devotions in Your Seasonal Routine

by Paul Schreiber

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by Paul Schreiber

“There’s nothing like a little unhurried time spent handling God’s Word to encourage me to grow in faith.”

he Coming King Advent devotions for later this year features 36 messages derived mostly from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Each is supplemented by three reflection questions. Readers will find that both Bible authors, while differing in their audience and overall presentation, echo Luke’s sentiment as to the reason for their writing: “so that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:4). As a follow-up to last year’s Advent devotions, Love Came Down, Dr. Kari Vo has again written this year’s Christmas-based messages.

“The Coming King focuses on the details of the Christmas story—the often overlooked phrases, thoughts, and details that tell us wonderful, important things about God. Through these tiny points, we see the incredible mercy and kindness of our coming King Jesus from a new perspective. Our Savior’s glory shines through the text of the Bible and into our lives,” Vo says.

Vo again brings to the fore text details that, though familiar to longtime Bible readers, still have much to say on closer inspection. In “A Strange Turn of Phrase,” she speaks to David’s sin with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah, pointing out that Jesus is the ultimate everyman. “David’s story reminds us that among Jesus’ ancestors were some of the worst sinners imaginable—people guilty of murder, adultery, prostitution, sacrilege, and child sacrifice, among others. Jesus carried their DNA. Their bodies furnished the basis for His. The sinless Savior of the world had an ancestry teeming with sinful people.

“When God called Jesus Immanuel, which means ‘God-with-us,’ He meant it. Jesus is truly with us in the most intimate, personal ways. He does not stand aloof from us in our sins. He comes to us, even in the darkest, most shameful depths. He shines His light into our lives. He cleanses us with His own blood, shed on the cross. He lifts us out of the mud and makes us God’s own people, washed clean and pure by His mercy. This is what Jesus was born to do.”

LWML Grant Helps LHM Share the Gospel in the Middle East and North Africa by Chad Fix

Lutheran Hour Ministries is honored to receive a $100,000 grant from the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League in support of its mission outreach efforts in the Middle East and North Africa. Jennifer Huecker, LWML’s national vice president of Christian life, presented the grant check to LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz during LHM’s weekly staff chapel service, May 24. The grant, “Christian Hope through Mass Media in Egypt,” was approved during last summer’s LWML National Convention.

“The history of our two organizations has been intertwined since the LWML grew out of the work of the Lutheran Laymen’s League more than 75 years ago,” says Buchholz. “We thank God for the LWML’s partnership in this project and for continuing to walk together with us in His mission.”

The Middle East and North Africa region continues to experience tremendous turmoil and suffering.

Because of that instability, the opportunity for individuals living in the region to hear the Gospel proclaimed is often limited at best.

However, LHM now has a tremendous chance to reach people across more than 20 countries in the region through: • A new variety television program developed in partnership with SAT-7 and based out of Egypt that dramatizes real-life problems and struggles for young people and their families;

… we see the incredible mercy and kindness of our coming King Jesus from a new perspective.

“This grant helps enable us to share our faith and the true love of Christ with people who urgently need to hear God’s Word.”

• Continued holistic, refugee-relief programs that provide humanitarian assistance to Arabicspeaking individuals residing in camps in Lebanon, Northern Iraq, and other areas in the region where youth make up nearly 60 percent of people in the camps; • An expanded social media presence that already connects with more than 380,000 people throughout the region.

“This grant helps enable us to share our faith and the true love of Christ with people who urgently need to hear God’s Word,” says Buchholz. “Without

In “Unto You,” Vo speaks of exclusion and inclusion, citing the well-known birth announcement of Jesus (Luke 2:11): “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” She writes, “Have you ever been left out of anything? Remember back in your school days—the classmates who would gather together, whispering and laughing, but when you came close, suddenly the conversation ended. Or maybe there was a party you didn’t get invited to. Even now you may be facing adult versions of this—and it hurts. It hurts a lot.” This being cast aside, this ostracizing, would be something familiar to the shepherds. Their poor and ordinary status, their meager livelihood on the fringe of society made them the perfect people to forget about completely. But (should we be surprised?) God doesn’t work that way.

Vo continues, “Unto you! Unto you, poor shepherd, smelly and ignored and uneducated as you are. Unto you, disabled or shut-in or aging or living with chronic pain. Unto you, you with the bad reputation, whether you earned it or not.

Unto you, you with the outwardly wonderful life, but inside you still feel lonely and troubled and wonder if anyone would want you if they knew the full truth about you.

mass media programming, many families and youth throughout the Middle East and North Africa may never have the opportunity to hear the message of faith and trust in God in their lives.”

“We believe that we are called, equipped, and sent to share the love of Christ in the world,” says Lois Engfehr, LHM grants manager. “In spite of the continued turmoil in the region, we see great opportunity to expand our ministry efforts into those countries with large non-Christian populations.

That’s why we are so blessed by this partnership with LWML to help us carry out this life-changing work.” n

“And unto me, even me, too.

“Jesus is born to us as our Savior. What does that mean? It means that God wants you—wants you so much that He is willing to come into this world as a tiny baby lying in a manger. It means that God wants you personally, you yourself, just as you are—because this baby will grow up to suffer and die for you, you yourself. It means that God wants you forever, because this baby Jesus will one day rise from the dead, and for what? To share that everlasting life with you, you whom He loves, so that you can be His forever.”

The Coming King will be available to read online or to hear as a podcast. These devotions can also be received as an e-mail subscription throughout the Advent season. You can access the downloadable version, which includes a large-font text, bulletin inserts, and PowerPoint slides on October 2. Audio availability begins on December 3 with Mark Eischer, senior producer for The Lutheran Hour, reading the devotions. Visit lhm.org/advent for all the details.

El Rey que viene, the Spanish version, will also be available to read online or to be received as an e-mail subscription throughout the Advent season beginning December 2, while the print version will be available for download beginning October 2. Please go to paraelcamino.com/adviento. The regular Daily Devotions are suspended during the Advent season; they will resume again on Sunday, January 6, 2019. n The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 19

Special Award Goes to Maier D r. Paul L. Maier, younger son of the first Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, has been granted a high honor by Marquis Who’s Who, considered the premier publisher of biographical profiles since forming in 1899. The organization named Maier as recipient of the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award for his professional achievements, leadership qualities, plus credentials and successes he has accrued in his field.

Maier marked 50 years of campus teaching at Western Michigan University, 39 of which included his role as campus chaplain. As historian, novelist, tour leader, event speaker, and a former vice president of the LCMS, Maier’s influence has been Christocentric over the generations.

One stipulation for the lifetime achievement from Who’s Who is that the person must have achieved greatness in their field for at least 20 years.

“About four million Maier books are now in print in 120 editions translated into 20 languages, as well as some 250 articles and reviews in professional journals and the general press,” reported Marquis Who’s Who. He has been listed “in numerous editions of Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in American Education, Who’s Who in Religion, and Who’s Who in the Midwest,” all various editions of the Marquis Who’s Who publications with offices in Ferkeley Heights, New Jersey.

Maier earned degrees at Harvard, Concordia Seminary, and the University of Basel (Doctor of Philosophy Degree Summa Cum Laude). His novels include two historical documentaries: Pontius Pilate and The Flames of Rome, as well as a theological thriller and national bestseller in religious fiction in 1994, A Skeleton in God’s Closet. Maier’s latest work is

by Gerald Perschbacher

Maier’s influence has been Christocentric over the generations.

… “one of Christendom’s greatest leaders.” a commentary on Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, the famed best-seller of the Reformation Era. Maier has been supportive of LHM for decades, even being involved as a key personage featured in videos produced by LHM. His expertise in Christian history, ancient cultures, and lively applications of the Gospel have made him a favorite speaker and writer.

His admiration for his father, Dr. Walter A. Maier, made Paul Maier a worthy writer of the book A Man Spoke, a World Listened, released in 1962 and hailed as the supreme book on the subject of his father and the growth of Christian media on radio over the first half of the 20th century.

The honoree stated that his father “had an

extraordinary range, for each week it was heard around the world. In Shanghai it introduced a Chinese highway engineer to Christianity. In Illinois it caused a woman who was driving to an illicit tryst to make a U-turn on the highway. In Poland it preached anything but party line to a Communist functionary. And to millions of others across the earth, the voice had become a Sunday institution.”

Evangelist Billy Graham was noted as calling the senior Maier “one of Christendom’s greatest leaders.”

The book also noted that The Lutheran Hour during the Walter Maier years was beamed in 35 languages airing from 55 countries and heard in 120 nations and territories. n

500th Marked in Heidelberg On April 26, 2018, the day of the 500th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther’s Heidelberg Disputation, the theology faculty of Heidelberg University in Germany conducted a special event marking the milestone. Organizer was Dr. Christoph Strohm (at right in photo), dean of the department. More than 300 guests attended by special invitation.

Several speakers addressed the subjects of Luther, the Reformation, the impact of events on the course of religious and European history, and its significance today.

The invitation was extended to Dr. Gerald Perschbacher due to one of his ancestors having been a Heidelberg theology student who witnessed Luther’s disputation in 1518.

That student’s professor was among the debaters. Dr. William Schumacher of Concordia Seminary was welcomed to the 2018 event in conjunction with Perschbacher’s presence.

Dr. Daniel Harmelink, who heads Concordia Historical Institute, prepared a citation on the anniversary and the significance of Heidelberg’s role. On his behalf, Perschbacher presented CHI’s full-color, hardbound book, The Reformation, Coin and Medal Collection, and a limited edition, two-sided medal highlighting the roles of Luther and Jan Hus in the early movement of theological reform. A personal congratulatory letter was sent

by Dr. Ken Klaus of The Lutheran Hour, in which he said, “That 1518 event stands as a reminder of Christ Jesus, the Savior, and the grace which comes only through Him.” A special reception followed the evening event. n Photo by W. Schumacher.

20 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

Good Reasons to be Active

… it launched renewed Christ-centered activity in the season.

W

hen summery weather finally came, it launched renewed Christcentered activity in the season. That’s what indicators show when it comes to the motivated laity known as the International Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries.

As May warmed, LLL supporters in the Lone Star District LLL (notably the Texas area) were buzzing with news of the LHM Learning Library online.

Specifically, the two courses “Psalms of Thanks” and “Silent Witness” were promoted by district leaders as “outreach resources that can help you grow spiritually as you delve further into Scripture,” proclaimed a special article in The Lutheran Witness supplement section for LHM. Easily accessed via lhm.org/learn, early responses were very encouraging.

Mark Astleford, president of the LLL Iowa District West, notes growing activity in his area, also. The convention of the LCMS district in late June was followed two days later by the LWML convention. Both were set to be held at Camp Okoboji, now under the operation of new Executive Director Kirk Warnke, following the 30-year administration of Doug Kading. Both events welcomed a booth operated by volunteers of the Iowa West LLL. To make the presence personal, LLLers were asked to sign up for three-hour stretches.

John Tews coordinated the schedule.

Astleford also is among LLL leaders promoting LHM Learn. “It is easy to access these on any digital device. A variety of learning methods are provided to help the adult learner,” he explains to his district.

Flexing its volunteer muscle is the Kansas District LLL which set a goal of $40,000 for the district project to support students training for full-time church work. This also includes funds “to support a banquet to honor seminary graduates and inform them how Lutheran Hour Ministries can partner with them in their ministry,” explains Tim Voelker, district president.

Kansas supporters are motivated to contribute $8,000 for LHM ministry efforts in Argentina and Bible Correspondence Courses “that help proclaim the name of Jesus throughout the world.” Furthermore, there is the ongoing worship presence supported by the district at the Kansas State Fair “that proclaims the Gospel right here in Kansas,” plus support for the Tournament of Roses LHM float presence as the new year begins, he adds. Carroll Hackbart of St. George, Kansas, is coordinating the receipt of funds for the district’s overall range of projects.

There is little doubt that this sampling of LLL activity is a mere reflection of the activity of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church that is being held across North America. n

Stellings Were Honored The Stellings served in various educational and healing ministries more than 60 years.

LLL members and LHM supporters Ed and Diane Stelling were honored

by Concordia University Irvine, May 5, at graduation ceremonies in Irvine, California. The two were given the University’s Great Commission Award in recognition of their commitment to furthering Christ’s Great Commission by noteworthy service through involvement and/or support of missionary activity and evangelism.

The Stellings served in various educational and healing ministries associated with the Lutheran church for over 60 years. Ed is a lifelong Lutheran educator who taught in Detroit, Maui, and several cities in California. He has led Bible classes continuously for almost

50 years. Diane, educated as a nurse, used her healing and care-giving skills in various nursing homes and clinics in cities where she and Ed have lived.

According to the university, midway through their careers the Stellings undertook linguistic training and joined Lutheran Bible Translators (LBT) for the Kuwaa language group in Liberia. As a result, Ed and Diane lived in remote Liberia for seven years.

For many years in the United States, the Stellings continued their LBT involvement and served on its board of directors. They are active with Lutheran Hour Ministries and the Lutheran Hour Float Committee of the Southern California LLL. n

Rollover Your IRA to Change

Lives with the Gospel

By taking a distribution from your IRA this year, you will likely pay more in taxes and may even reach a higher tax bracket. Rolling over part of your IRA’s “required minimum distribution” or “RMD” to a charity like ours can help reduce your tax bill while supporting our cause.

If you are 70½ or older and don’t need your RMD, you can make a gift of up to $100,000 this year from your IRA to benefit both YOU and OUR Mission.

Call 1-877-333-1963 or visit LHM.ORG/IRA today to take advantage of this opportunity to put more of your resources to work in the service of the Gospel.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 21

A Day in the Life:

LHM Resources for Every Occasion

W

e know people everywhere—both here and abroad—are using LHM’s Christ-centered resources, both to empower their faith walk and to share the Gospel with others. We know this from the consistent comments LHM receives about cases where a booklet, a devotion, a video, or even a word of prayer from someone in the Telecare area of our Response Center has made a huge difference in someone’s life. With this in mind, we wondered how it might look if we “shadowed” a representative family to see how LHM’s resources might be used in a given day.

To do this, we’ll be eavesdropping in on a young family of four, living and working somewhere south of the Canadian border.

Sometime around 5:30 a.m., Ben wakes from his slumber and heads through the kitchen to the back door to let out his dog, Scruff. While he waits, he hits the button on the coffee maker and opens his laptop for a few minutes of insight and inspiration with the Daily Devotions, written and read

by Rev. Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus for The Lutheran Hour. Today’s message centers on patience and hope—two things Ben needs big time right now as he’s out “shaking the bushes” for another part-time job—this to make up for a cut in hours he received from his formerly “full-time” job.

After a quick prayer to top off the Daily Devo, he clicks on a tab opening LHM’s social media project called THRED and reads a blog post entitled “How Gratitude (Among Other Things) Can Combat Fear.” Ben knows from experience how he and his wife, Molly, struggled with fear over finances when money was tight—and that was before the birth of their second child, Lauren, only 14 months after their first child, Jason! The blog’s reference to Psalm 23 prompts him to grab his Bible and reread these wellknown lines by King David, a man who both suffered from and—by God’s help—conquered fear.

Before getting some breakfast, Ben grabs his gym shoes,

22 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018

… he discovers a resource he can tap into— even while he’s on the run …

his iPod, a leash for Scruff, and heads out the front door to walk/run a couple of miles. As pressures in his day-to-day life mount, so do temptations. And lately he’s been in the thick of it. At LHM’s Project Connect Virtual Library, he discovers a resource he can tap into—even while he’s on the run—that will help him combat those things that would distract him and derail his life. It’s an audio booklet titled Reasons to Believe. He downloads the audio mp3 file to his iPod, and he’s off and running.

When Ben gets back home, Molly’s up, the kids are at the kitchen table, and Scruff finds his corner by the back door. This scene is probably not too far from a typical day for a lot of us. What with our job hassles, money problems, parental or relationship dramas, and general fatigue from life’s constant pressures, it’s easy to get sidetracked or feel like we’re staring at a dead end. It’s in those moments where LHM has numerous resources to equip and enrich—with each one prepared to point users to the Savior who meets all our needs and does so abundantly.

It’s with individuals in mind that LHM creates its resources, with an eye to sharing the hope we have in the Redeemer and empowering believers to live victorious lives in Jesus. If you’re in need of spiritual tools in your life, or if you know of people who need help themselves, take a moment and visit www.lhm.org. There you’ll find a wealth of Bible-centered material with the lion’s share of it available at no charge. For help in determining what might best fit your situation, please contact our Response Center by email at lh_min@lhm.org, call us toll-free at 1-800-876-9880 (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), or write us at Lutheran Hour Ministries, 660 Mason Ridge Center Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141. n

It’s with individuals in mind that LHM creates its resources …

by Paul Schreiber

… LHM has numerous resources to equip and enrich …

to be Featured at LHM Conference

by Paul Schreiber

D

on Everts, LHM’s new content development manager for U.S. Ministries, is excited about the road ahead. “THRED’s work in the digital sphere is like the ‘tip of the spear’ for all of LHM. How do we continue to bring Christ to the nations in our increasingly postmodern world? THRED’s ministry is forward-thinking, research-based, and relentlessly experimental to pave the way for LHM and all of the church to remain as relevant as ever in our rapidly changing world.”

The digital outreach mission of THRED is making vital inroads into people’s lives. Using social media elements like video and blog posts, in-depth articles, Facebook interactions, group dialogues, and more, THRED is connecting with users on many levels. As excitement builds, THRED’s mission, content, and outreach philosophy will be featured at Lutheran Hour Ministries’ celebration event, August 3-5, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at the Pfister Hotel.

Everts and Rachel Legoute, THRED’s project manager of outreach, will give attendees a glimpse of the work taking place. They will highlight a year of accomplishments (more than 3.5 million people reached across its social media platforms; 800,000plus video views; nearly 120,000 online content “likes,” “shares,” or comments left). They will also offer perspective on what to expect in the months ahead.

For instance, as part of the “Best Practices for Ministry” conference in Phoenix this February, THRED enlisted 22 people to start THRED Dialogue discussion groups in their communities. Supplied with a discussion guide and the ongoing assistance

of THRED team members, individuals can launch groups in the areas where they live. The target start date for these groups was June 1. Group leaders will have access to training videos and other resources to maximize their experiences. Groups are scheduled to last seven weeks post launch. Additionally, LHM’s ministry resource manager field staff will work with key personnel in various churches and ministries to ensure that groups and leaders are equipped with tools for success.

As an online social media ministry, THRED’s typical audience skews toward ages 25 to 45. As it negotiates this dynamic mission field, its current and future success is intrinsically linked to honing its present offering of resources, even as it explores and develops new tools and strategies going forward. That is LHM’s aim; it is also an active concern among LHM’s faithful supporters.

“A frequent comment LHM hears from its constituency is that their kids and grandkids are falling away from the church,” said Jeff Craig-Meyer, vice president of Constituent Services. “This concern comes in the form of a query: ‘What are you doing to keep them engaged in the church or bring them back to the church?’ THRED was launched as one way for LHM to address this significant generational challenge. What THRED brings to the table is LHM’s conscious decision to enter and begin building relationships in the digital sphere. To do this, the THRED team is willing to test ideas and brainstorm approaches in order to find ways to engage its audience and open doors, whenever possible, to gain a hearing for the Gospel.”

Not surprisingly, one of the key factors in moving these conversations forward is … listening. According to Legoute, “Our team has seen firsthand how powerful it can be to truly listen to others. On multiple occasions we’ve seen newcomers to THRED become totally disarmed by the fact that someone was there who wanted to listen, and was willing to actually lean in to their experience and point of view. We’re learning how people who have never been a part of the church—or, in many cases, have left the church— choose to share their thoughts and views on issues of faith.” As LHM develops this approach, relationships are built with people who may not be reached otherwise.

How do we continue to bring Christ to the nations in our increasingly postmodern world?

The August event will be an ideal forum to share THRED’s online social ministry as it relates to one of four strategic priorities (see lead article in this issue). While the Milwaukee event’s core theme is to celebrate a century’s worth of Gospel proclamation, Craig-Meyer sees the gathering as an excellent opportunity to show what THRED can achieve in outreach potential. “THRED is fast becoming a significant resource by which LHM’s ongoing mission to share the Good News can be fulfilled. As has been LHM’s history, we charted new waters with radio and television in the past century, and now reach people in the 21st century in their journey through life—lifting up the Name of Christ that they might know Him!” n The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018 | 23

ON THE MOVE

by Kurt Buchholz, President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries

Fast Forward for Action!

H

ere I sit at 37,500 feet in the sky, remembering the day three years ago when I first traveled with colleagues to Egypt to meet with potential partners, praying that God would open doors for LHM in this area of the world.

Little did I know that God’s plans were far greater than my own.

Over these past three years, a vision for reaching the Middle East and North Africa emerged as well as the partnerships that would make it all happen. Our initial vision was reaching one country with the Gospel, but God’s vision was to reach 15 countries that are hungry for His Word! Still, the vision was not enough. God, at the same time, brought together His

“Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you.”

people throughout the United States and Canada to steward His resources to make this vision a reality.

In many ways this trip is a journey of praise, glorifying God for all He has done to bring His people to this day.

made this all possible. We lift a prayer of thanks for what God has done and even more that the impact of this program will resonate in the hearts and lives of millions throughout the region.

Fast forward one day …

Fast forward again a few days …

I just can’t keep the smile off my face, as the joy in my heart spills out, standing in a darkened studio surrounded by the cast and crew filming episodes of LHM’s hour-long TV program which premiered in June 2018. It is fitting that the filming begins not with calls of “Action” but with 40 people, whether on set, behind a camera, applying makeup, or, like me, just observing, then bowing their heads in prayer to God who has

A bit jet lagged but still high on my experience in Egypt, I board a plane for the West Coast, bringing this journey full circle. Because none of this could have happened without God’s people answering His call to fund this effort with their gifts of faith. I will have the chance to relate this three-year journey personally to some of those who, without their support, a program of this scope and reach could not have happened.

And yet, this is but one story of LHM’s passion and ability to reach tens of millions with a saving message of love that only the Gospel brings. God is leading us to do so much more and I invite you to be a part of this new global expansion! As Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you” (John 20:21).

Together, we will not shrink from the mission that God has called each and every one of us to. For we have been sent by God! Watch for more information in the coming months as we faithfully follow God’s leading into mission expansion and invite you to live our sent-ness together! n

DON’T MISS OUT! AUGUST 3-5, 2018 • THE PFISTER HOTEL • MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN There is still time to register for this exciting weekend! Join us for fellowship and stories from those impacted by the work of God through Lutheran Hour Ministries.

NOW IS YOUR CHANCE! Register at lhm.org/celebration today!

24 | The Lutheran Layman July - August 2018