The Lutheran Layman

THE

LUTHERAN L AYMAN Your Partner in HIS Mission!

March - April 2016

BOLD vision for the

Future see page 3

Online Mission Trip is a Hit . . . 7 LHM Now in Laos . . . . . . . . . . 8 Men’s NetWork Giveaway . . . . 11 Candidates and Bylaws: Voting on Changes. . . . . . . 12-16 Tech Solution in Mexico . . . . . 18 About Islam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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

St. Louis, MO. Permit No. 619

PAID

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

SPEAKINGUP

by Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz Speaker of The Lutheran Hour

There Are

PROMISES …

“And Jesus said, ‘… surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:20)

W

e are well into the “New Year”—how are those resolutions going? Why is it that every year, we can whip ourselves into a “commitment to change” frenzy, only to find out that what we’d hope would happen never seems to come true. It’s important to realize that a promise is only as good as the capacity of the one making that promise. So when it comes to sinful people like all of us, that’s not good news.

Thank the Lord that’s not the only news for you and me today. In fact, Christ’s Good News matters even more when your capacity to fulfill important promises seems to run out. His promises aren’t wishful thinking; they are the stuff to build our daily, weekly, yearly, eternal lives upon. Notice what he says to some fearful disciples who stood looking into an unsure future: “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Elsewhere Christ’s Good in the Bible, Jesus says, “I go to prepare a place for News matters you…I will come back and even more when take you to be with me that your capacity to you also may be where I fulfill important am!” (John 14:2-3) promises seems Wow! All I can say is, to run out.

“There are promises, and then there are PROMISES!” When Jesus makes a promise, there is the eternal capacity of the Creator of the universe (see John 1:14), and the One who died and rose again for you, telling you and me “how it really is” for ALL those who put their trust in Him. What a world it would be if promises that mattered were kept, important resolutions fulfilled, right?

Writer and speaker Lewis Smedes* says: “Yes, somewhere people still make and keep promises. They choose not to quit when the going

L AYMAN

gets rough because they promised once to see it through. They stick to lost causes. They hold on to a love grown cold. They stay with people who have become pains in the neck. They still dare to make promises and care enough to keep the promises they make…. What a marvelous thing a promise is!

“When a person makes a promise, they reach out into an unpredictable future and make one thing predictable: they will be there even when ‘being there’ costs them more than they want to pay. When a person makes a promise, they stretch themselves out into circumstances that no one can control and control at least one thing: They will be there no matter what the circumstances turn out to be.

“With one simple word of promise, a person creates an island of certainty in a sea of uncertainty.”* When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, that’s what you have, my friend, real certainty and hope in a very uncertain world. And when you share Jesus with someone else, that’s what you give!

Lutheran Hour Ministries is dedicated to sharing the certainty and hope that only comes in and through Jesus Christ. Why? Because promises with Him change everything—no matter what the circumstances of the moment, in Him, through Him, with Him. Happy, blessed New year! n

Hear Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz on The Lutheran Hour and online at lutheranhour.org * Lewis Smedes, “The Power of Promises,” A Chorus of Witnesses, edited by Long and Plantinga, Eerdmans, 1994.

The Lutheran

Vol. 87, No. 2 March - April 2016

Listen on your

local station, online, or download TLH app TODAY!

lutheranhourministries

Follow us on Facebook!

Dr. Gerald Perschbacher (LL.D.), Editor • Denis Kloppenburg & 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, By Kids...For Kids, JCPlayZone, Life...revised, Living for Tomorrow, This is the Life, On Main Street, Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones, Esta Es La Vida, Para el Camino, Woman to Woman, Family Time, Teacher to Teacher, Reaching Out and The Hoffmann Society are ® registered marks, or SM service marks. The Puzzle Club is a service mark and trademark of Int’l LLL. Copyright 2016, 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 March - April 2016

Broadcast guide available at

LUTHERANHOUR.ORG

BOLD vision ...

Lutheran Hour Ministries has created a logo to help us remember and celebrate the powerful work that God will do through these strategic priorities. This logo will accompany communications in the future that offer stories and updates on how God is blessing the work that you are a part of through your prayers and support. Please join Lutheran Hour Ministries in praying for the countless souls that we will reach with the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 27:14

By Brad Neathery

I

f you turn on the TV, go online, or look just about anywhere else, you’ll see one message broadcast above all else—crisis. Crisis is the theme that news and media personalities want us to accept as our standard mode of operation. People living in crisis can be prone to quick judgment and rash action, but often forget to pause and have hope.

Lutheran Hour Ministries knows that God does not live in a state of crisis. We believe that He doesn’t want His children to do so, either. Scripture shows that God does not act with haste and anxiety. Psalm 27:14 tells us to “wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Our Lord does everything in His perfect timing according to His perfect will. With this in mind, LHM believes that Christianity today is not in crisis—but it is at a crossroads.

devotions

The challenges that believers face in the world today are vast and, in some ways, unprecedented.

Many people have come to doubt God’s existence or relevance for their lives. Billions more have never even heard His name. LHM believes that God has been preparing us throughout our nearly 100-year existance so that we can be ready to respond in this critical moment in history.

“Lutheran Hour Ministries has been prayerfully thinking about where the world is today and how we are uniquely equipped to respond today and into the future,” states Kurt Buchholz, president & CEO of LHM. “Out of this process we decided to follow God’s call by setting our organizational focus on four strategic ministry priorities.” Each priority is bold and holds immense opportunity for God to bless this ministry and its partners in incredible ways.

activities

radio

see next page

in churches

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

3

study

Ministry Priority:

Grow God’s Kingdom through Expanded Media Outreach

BOLD vision ...

from previous page

Ministry Priority:

Energize, Equip and Engage Laity for Outreach A central belief of Lutheranism is that Christians are called by God to share His Gospel with others. Once God’s word is out there, the Holy Spirit has the ultimate power to change people’s hearts. Dr. Oswald Hoffmann once said that “everything good that occurs in the world on behalf of Christ is the work of the Holy Spirit.”

Unfortunately, this culture of evangelism is not thriving today throughout many parts of the Lutheran church, or in a larger sense the entire Christian church in North America. A study by LifeWay’s discipleship research project revealed that 36% of Protestants do not feel a personal responsibility to share their faith. Many more do feel this responsibility, but they aren’t sure how to proceed.

LHM was founded by lay leaders and has always operated with the belief that all laypeople can be powerful witnesses for Christ to their families and communities. As a grassroots ministry, LHM seeks to equip and train members of the church body to lead “missional lives” in their own communities. As we look to expand this work, we will focus on providing services in three vital areas:

As a grassroots ministry, LHM seeks to equip and train members of the church body to lead “missional lives” in their own communities.

Train individuals and groups of all ages to evangelize others in their everyday lives. Simply put, there is no more direct and effective form of outreach than one-on-one interactions among friends and family. But this type of outreach can be intimidating. LHM’s training programs reduce this anxiety by giving advice and encouragement that help Christians feel prepared for the opportunities that come in their lives.

Sharing the Gospel through media ministry has been at the core of LHM throughout its history. The defining ministry program is The Lutheran Hour which has been proclaiming the Gospel through the radio for more than 85 years. At the same time, LHM has defined itself as an expert in mass media proclamation through tremendous success in radio as well as internet, video, TV, and print media.

Lutheran Hour Ministries is immeasurably thankful for the tremendous blessing of The Lutheran Hour’s record-setting tenure. This longevity also presents us with the exciting opportunity to continue evolving and adapting this ministry program to reach new audiences on new media platforms. The Lutheran Hour is now available on smartphone apps, podcasts, lutheranhour.org, and social media as well as through important networks like the Bott Radio Network and the American Forces Network. This diversity of media platforms allows The Lutheran Hour to be focused on reaching new constituencies who may have never heard the program or even the Gospel message.

Looking to the future, The Lutheran Hour must continue to search for ways in which it can be externally focused and speak to the needs of new and existing audiences. Two new initiatives that show this approach are Action in Ministry and Lutheran Hour Live. Both of these components show how ministry is taking place out in the real world and offer insight on LHM resources that congregations and individuals can use for their outreach efforts. The evolution of The Lutheran Hour gives an indication of how LHM’s media strategies will evolve in other areas as well.

Lutheran Hour Ministries intends to launch a new mass media program. Based on audience research, we will determine what format and media platforms

Develop resources that lay members can use to address situations in people’s lives or answer questions about Christianity and faith. Ministries like Project Connect and the Men’s NetWork focus on tackling many of the tough issues of life—issues that are often stumbling blocks for seeking individuals. These resources will help reach souls wherever they are and introduce them to the ultimate hope of the Gospel.

Provide research on how today’s culture is evolving and how Christians and congregations can respond.

Society seems to be changing at rates unlike anything we’ve ever seen in history. Christians need to understand these changes and how they can respond with the eternal truth of the Gospel. LHM will assemble and provide this critical information for congregations and individuals so they can be more effective in their ongoing outreach activities.

LHM will integrate training, resources, and research into a “road map” of strategies and tools for congregations and individuals. This map will become an integral part of congregations’ efforts to make connections with individuals in their community and build long-term relationships. God has called all the laity to share the Gospel with their families and communities—and LHM wants to partner with you in this calling.

4

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

explore

will most effectively reach the target audience.

This program will serve as a bridge to meet these individuals where they are in their faith journey.

In recent years, LHM has become a leader in the production of Bible studies and other resources for congregations on video platforms.

Ministries like GodConnects and the Men’s NetWork offer relevant and accessible videos that can be watched and shared by individuals and groups. In order to reach new audiences, these resources will become more available online where they can be even more shareable and easy to access.

By God’s grace, LHM has the potential to effectively reach millions more in the future via mass media than we do today.

Print is still a powerful media platform in the U.S. and around the world. This continues to be seen through Project Connect and its children’s booklet ministry which together sell hundreds of thousands of booklets each year.

LHM’s printed ministry materials must be created so that they speak to issues in people’s lives today and align with the outreach activities of congregations.

By God’s grace, Lutheran Hour Ministries has the potential to effectively reach millions more in the future via mass media than we do today. Continuing to excel in this area will require us to think about what audiences LHM is trying to reach and what the most effective media platforms and strategies are for each audience.

international outreach

Ministry Priority:

Bring the Gospel to the Unreached around the World

The statistic is staggering: 42% of the world’s population lives in areas where they have little or no opportunity to hear the name and Gospel of Jesus Christ. That’s more than three billion souls. LHM has ministry centers in many areas of the world where these people groups are concentrated. Capitalizing on this advantage, we plan to intensify and launch efforts in many countries that are currently unreached by the Gospel.

Sharing the Gospel with such a large number of unreached people is clearly an enormous opportunity and challenge.

In order to better focus our mission work, LHM has developed strategic guidelines that we want to meet wherever we choose to launch or intensify ministry efforts. Regions which meet these guidelines are characterized by the following:

1. Majority of the population consists of unreached people who have little or no possibility of hearing the Gospel. Close to 90% of mission work by North Americans today is done among people who already have access to the Good News of Jesus Christ. LHM takes a different path by focusing efforts where the need for the Gospel is greatest.

2. Densely populated urban areas with large concentrations of unreached people.

The megacities of the world are growing exponentially and often define the culture of their countries. LHM can maximize our potential reach by working in these areas, especially through mass media and group events. Many of LHM’s international partner churches and organizations are also in these urban areas, which gives us the opportunity to reach even more souls for Christ.

3. Population is dominated by the emerging global youth culture, which is identified as another unreached people group. In most of the developing world, the average age is below 30. This means entire generations are coming to power and still seeking to define themselves. Lutheran Hour Ministries believes these can be generations devoted to Christ if they are reached with the truth of the Gospel.

By many measures, radio and online media are the most effective communication platforms in these areas. As we expand within geographic regions, LHM will dramatically increase its use of these tools to reach many more people with the life-transforming news of Jesus Christ.

LHM continues to see holistic ministries open new doors to communities and people groups. Holistic ministries focus on addressing the needs of the body first so that we can then minister to the soul. LHM believes that holistic ministry must be designed to meet the specific needs of an area in order to have maximum impact.

This means providing refugee relief, medical camps, prison ministry, and any other form of ministry that God is calling us to deliver.

This expansion of international efforts requires accurate knowledge of a region and its culture. A central feature of LHM’s international efforts is to staff ministry centers with people who are from that country. These leaders know the language, understand the culture, and know best how to communicate the Gospel in their context. By operating in this manner, LHM maximizes ministry dollars and achieves even greater reach and impact in diverse areas around the globe. see next page

42% of the world’s population lives in areas where they have little or no opportunity to hear the name and Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

5

BOLD vision ...

cooperation

from previous page

Ministry Priority:

Launch a New Digital Mission Field The U.S. is no longer going online, it is online. The majority of every age group in the United States is now active on the internet through Facebook, YouTube, and other websites. 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 are declaring the digital realm as a new mission field where there is potential to reach a very different audience that is unreached and/or disconnected from the church.

The first step in building effective digital ministries is developing and testing optimal methods for reaching targeted audiences with the Gospel. Building on this research, LHM will launch online programming over such platforms as social media, web TV, video streaming, and blogs. With the right message, these programs could potentially reach millions instantly.

It can be easier to get a message in front of people online, but the challenge is following up to engage those same people in meaningful long-term relationships. That’s why LHM’s digital strategy will follow three phases:

With the right message, these programs could potentially reach millions instantly.

First, we will make initial contact through engaging and shareable digital content that prompts a response. This content must remain fresh and be constantly tested and tweaked to have the maximum impact online.

Second, we will host platforms which allow for in-depth discussions and learning opportunities through personalized online forums and courses. In order to engage individuals personally, this content must be designed so that it speaks to their specific questions and needs. Doing this requires us to build up a huge reserve of content and online outreach teams.

Third, our goal is to take the relationship offline by connecting individuals to Christian communities who are ready to welcome them in love.

This strategy of engaging people online so that they can connect with people offline adds a level of personal and local connectivity that often is missing in online programs.

So many people can be reached online, but evangelism is still a person-to-person activity.

That’s why we must be ready to meet the longings of the human hearts with groups and congregations that are ready to reach out to those in their community. LHM is actively working to build these networks of outreach teams so that they can be trained and ready to take part in this ministry movement. Our prayer is that this approach will address the loneliness and search for answers that define so many in the digital space.

“…we will not rest as long as there are people who we can reach with the Savior’s love.”

“These four ministry priorities are God’s unique calling for Lutheran Hour Ministries. That’s why we will not rest as long as there are people we can reach with the Savior’s love,” says Buchholz. The Lord also calls us not to work alone, but instead to partner with fellow Christians who believe, like us, that the need to proclaim the Gospel is greater than ever.”

Our prayer is that you would join us—with your advocacy, your support, and your heartfelt prayers. Lutheran Hour Ministries has always been an organization based around its members. The work God will do through us is enhanced by the Holy Spirit as you get involved in His plan for LHM. n Brad Neathery works with philanthropic supporters of LHM.

conversation platforms 6

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

Our God is not a God of crisis; He is a God of love. Together, we can boldly share God’s love with a world in desperate need.

Lutheran Schools Participate in LHM’s 2016 Online Mission Trip!

by Greg Koenig

Lutheran Hour Ministries’ Online Mission Trip 2016—the organization’s fifth mission education program for Lutheran school students—took several thousand “virtual missionaries” to Central America to introduce them to the land, culture, and character of Guatemala—as well as to the work of LHM there. Held January 2528 during National Lutheran Schools Week, LHM’s Online Mission Trip to Guatemala was filled with energy, excitement, and assurances of God’s love for people everywhere.

One source of the energy and excitement was Alberto, who served as the students’ guide and companion throughout the four-day adventure. Over the course of the event, Alberto demonOnline Mission Trip to Guatemala host Alberto prepares to strated a special gift for seeing his home country from a youthful demonstrate how Mayans enjoyed live termites as snacks in ancient perspective—taking photographs with his cell phone while visittimes. “They taste like peanuts!” he says, after trying a couple. ing the Mayan ruins at Tikal, eating termites in the jungle just for fun, dancing to marimba music with LHM—Guatemala Director Rebeca De Franco (who is also his mother), and even grousing Instead of live-chat question opportunities as in past years, Online Mission Trip 2016 included good-naturedly about having to sit at the “kids’ table” during lunch pre-recorded student questions as part of each day’s video—but through the use of social media, at a ministry location. students, and schools were able to interact with the OMT ministry center in new ways. Over the LHM—Guatemala’s holistic Gospel outreach to children was four days of the mission trip, Facebook and Twitter (search #omtguat) were buzzing with questions, the focus of Online Mission Trip Day 2. Ministry center staff and comments and photos from students and other participants. Rebeca worked hard to field the many volunteers visit both Christian schools and public schools across questions, posting responses on both Facebook and the LHM—Guatemala blog. the country to present Project JOEL, a Biblically-based values edYou don’t need to attend a Lutheran school to experience the excitement of LHM’s 2016 ucation program that LHM’s centers in Latin America have been Online Mission Trip to Guatemala. The four videos are available anytime, to anybody, on Youusing with great success for 20 years. Students who participate Tube! And who knows? When you see them for yourself, you might get inspired to use them as in Project JOEL activities learn about relationships, about resources in your Sunday school, VBS, or small group!

These students at Colegio Luterano El responsibility, and about making wise life choices—and as Yep, they’re that good. Just visit LHM’s OMT page at Divino Salvador (Divine Savior Lutheran they do, they also hear the message of God’s love through www.lhm.org/onlinemissiontrips. n School) in the Guatemalan town of Zacapa Jesus. love participating in LHM—Guatemala’s Greg Koenig reports on the impact Project JOEL biblically based values of LHM’s ministry work globally. education program. Can you tell?

LHM’s Online Mission Trip to Guatemala introduced students to Faviola, a Cakchiquel girl whose family belongs to World’s Redeemer Lutheran Church in the town of Santiago Zamora. Faviola is learning the art of weaving cloth like the kind used to make her colorful dress.

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

7

LHM Now

Brings Christ to the Nation of

LHM’s speaker shares “Delightful News” with Laotian listeners.

by Greg Koenig

L

Laos

utheran Hour Ministries has kicked off 2016 by establishing ministry operations in Laos, thereby expanding the reach of the Gospel in Southeast Asia.

“Laos is landlocked and surrounded by Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand—all countries in which LHM has ministry centers,” says Gunya Na Thalang, LHM’s Regional Director for Asia.

“This has actually presented us with one way to get a foot in the door in Laos.”

That “way” is through a Thai Government Public Relations radio station in the city of Nong Khai,

Thailand, just across the country’s border with Laos. Lutheran Hour Ministries is recording a 30-minute program in the Thai-Isan language and broadcasting it into the border region of Laos. The show is titled Sara-Nam-Souk, or “Delightful News.”

“Thai-Isan is actually a group of Lao dialects that are also spoken throughout much of northeastern Thailand,” says Na Thalang, “so our program will be readily understandable to both Laotian and Thai people across the station’s listening area.”

There is much still to do to get up and running— and bringing Christ to the nation of Laos. One of the most important things will be to establish a strong partnership with the Lao Evangelical Church (LEC), which will facilitate smooth relations with authorities and create channels for communicating with Christian communities. In addition, there are leadership

LHM Asia Regional Director Gunya Na Thalang (center) meets with officials to coordinate the launch of LHM programming to be broadcast into Laos on the Thailand Government Public Relations Department radio station in Nong Khai.

8

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

and staff positions to be filled; an office to be found and equipped; and print resources to be produced.

“The Holy Spirit is at work,” says Na Thalang, who recently returned from her third trip to Southeast Asia to help spearhead this important ministry start.

“We trust God will provide!”

The estimated 7.1 million people of Laos include three main people groups and a total of 135 ethnic groups and subgroups. The majority, 60 percent, are Buddhist; another 32 percent practice a variety of ethnic religions; barely more than one percent are Christian. According to Na Thalang, up to 97 percent have not heard the Gospel.

Watch for updates about this exciting ministry effort. Please pray for the people of Laos and for the spread of the Gospel there. n

Your Thrivent Choice Dollars Can go to LHM

W

ith Thrivent Choice®, you can recommend where some of Thrivent Financial’s charitable outreach funds go. Since 2010, eligible members have used this program to direct more than $225 million to churches and nonprofits nationwide. The program has been a great blessing for Lutheran Hour Ministries, bringing in more than $920,000 for the ministry!

Lutheran Hour Ministries wants Thrivent members to be able to take full advantage of the Thrivent Choice program, whether you choose to support this ministry or any other. Eligible Thrivent members are designated Choice Dollars at various times throughout the year, based on their insurance premiums, contract values and Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership, that can then be directed to thousands of nonprofit organizations nationwide. Choice Dollars are currently made available to Thrivent members as follows: • $2.30 Choice Dollars per $100 of annual premium on qualifying insurance products is designated monthly based upon the premium payments you made in the prior month.

• $1.15 Choice Dollars per $1,000 of contract value of qualifying products is designated on a quarterly basis. 25 percent of this amount will be designated to you each calendar quarter based upon the actual

contract value at the end of the quarter.

• $50 Choice Dollars for holding a qualifying Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership position is designated once each year.

• Choice Dollar amounts range from $25 to $5,000 for eligible members.

Choice Dollars designated during the calendar year can be directed until March 31 of the following year. For example, the Choice Dollars designated to you in 2015 can be directed until March 31, 2016.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Please remember that recurring direction of Choice Dollars to organizations such as Lutheran Hour Ministries is no longer an option; you must now go through the gift direction process every time you receive notification that Choice Dollars are available. Thrivent officials made this change at the end of 2012 to ensure that the program continues to be fully funded so that members can contribute as much as possible to the causes they support.

Supporting Lutheran Hour Ministries through Thrivent Choice is very simple. Go to www.thrivent. com/thriventchoice and search under “Lutheran Hour Ministries,” “LHM,” or “International Lutheran Laymen”. Or call Thrivent at 1-800-847-4836. Eligibility requirements can also be found at this web site. n

CAN YOU SUPPORT MINISTRY +

PROVIDE FOR YOUR FAMILY at the same time ?

YES!

A charitable gift annuity with Lutheran Hour Ministries allows you to:

• MAKE A GIFT that will help share the Gospel with souls in need • Receive FIXED PAYMENTS for 1 or 2 lives (usually a spouse or children) • Receive a potential TAX DEDUCTION for your gift Even better, you can fund a charitable gift annuity with many types of assets.

For more information, contact the Gift Planning office at 1-877-333-1963 or lhm-gift@lhm.org.

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

9

Savory Speech: Add ‘Salt’ to our Conversations

by Paul Schreiber

S

haring our faith with others can be a challenge, which is often made more so by the stress we add to the process. Addressing this is where MISSION U comes in. Its expert-led, onsite workshops instruct attendees in how to speak more comfortably about Jesus, giving them a heightened sense of context, and reminding them how God is at work in the conversation. MISSION U participants get the training, takeaway resources, and confidence to engage in Gospel- and faith-sharing dialogues— with less apprehension—whenever they present themselves. Teaching MISSION U’s individualized courses are more than 30 highly skilled presenters, who come from professional backgrounds in church work, education, missions, counseling, business, communications, and elsewhere. Now there are five MISSION U course options available for congregations to choose from (see sidebar).

Susan Spitz-Morrison is Lutheran Hour Ministries’ outreach manager for evangelism training. She was asked how MISSION U helps people make their faith-sharing exchanges less stressful. “A lot of people witness out of a sense of obligation—because they are supposed to. They think they need to impose themselves upon others to do this. MISSION U courses remind participants that the Holy Spirit is always at work. Our job is to cling to the Vine, deepening our relationship with Christ, as we build authentic loving relationships with others. MISSION U courses present specific situations that might arise and demonstrate how to recognize a witnessing opportunity. We then give them opportunities to practice turning a conversation toward Jesus in a natural way.”

Attendees have echoed the value of this approach.

One said that the presenter “gave us actual scenarios as to how we might deal with the real questions that arise, and charged us to do our ‘homework’ to develop our own answers. I especially appreciated the fact he taught us to deal respectfully with those who disagree with our point of view, rather than slamming them with the Law.”

MISSION U workshop participants benefit from experts

Another said this of how her workshop was empowering: “It went really well! The place was packed!

We had 58 show up and everyone at the tables eagerly dove in to the breakout sessions. We got a lot of practical ideas to use for the situations we may encounter. I came out of there ready to share the love of Christ and what He has done for me.”

There’s something to the old adage of “practice makes perfect” when it comes to acquiring a skill, even a conversational one. Mark Frith, director of outreach for LHM’s United States Ministries, said, “MISSION U workshops employ large-group and small-group interaction. You’re not going to sit in a chair for a couple hours and listen to a lecture. Courses are designed for people to be helped—whether you’re just starting out, or you’re an experienced faith-sharer. Also, MISSION U training recognizes there is not one way or even a right way to share your faith. The course workshop you attend will provide examples of how to interact with people in winsome ways. You leave the course ready to take action. In fact, you’ll put a personal plan together before you exit the workshop, which is empowering in itself.”

Several MISSION U workshops are already on the docket for 2016, with dates in April scheduled for Austintown, Ohio; Mayville, Wisconsin; Summerfield, Florida; Rolla, Missouri; Fort Smith, Arkansas; York, Nebraska; Granbury, Texas; and Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. Current enrollment price in a MISSION U workshop is $600 per person by April 30. Thereafter, beginning May 1, the price will be $750 ($850 in Canada). To enroll, go to www.lhm.org/missionu/ enroll. For more information on MISSION U’s onsite workshops and how you can get one scheduled in your area, send an e-mail to missionu@lhm.org or call C.C. Brown at 1-314-317-4217. You can also find answers to your questions, read presenter bios, and check out monthly webinars by going to www.lhm.org/missionu/speakerseries.asp. n Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.

10

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

MISSION U offers five personal witnessing workshops. Each course addresses specific faith-sharing concerns. Their aim is to help MISSION U attendees gain the confidence and skill they need to make their own one-on-one conversations about Jesus less anxious and more in tune to the social context and spiritual needs of the individual they’re speaking with.

Here are the courses briefly described. You can go to www.lhm.org/missionu and find a course syllabus, as well as materials for promoting a future MISSION U workshop in your area.

MU-101 – Equipping to Share: Everyday Evangelism Learn to overcome fear and to effectively share your faith within three relationship models: brief encounters, close relationships, and in times of crisis.

MU-102 – Equipping to Share: Stories and Styles Clarify and practice telling your faith story in ways that point to the Savior. Recognize multiple styles and contexts for sharing your faith and learn to apply them to everyday life.

MU-201 – Equipping to Share: Tough Questions Learn how to identify, classify, and get to the root of tough questions and objections to Christianity, and practice giving sensitive and relevant answers that point to the Savior using messages of “Law” and “Gospel” as appropriate.

MU-202/301 – Equipping to Share: A Culture of Outreach Learn to assess your congregational environment and identify specific outreach opportunities that will connect you with your community.

Learn how to compassionately share Jesus Christ in today’s pluralistic, anything-goes culture.

MU-203 - Equipping to Share: Social Media Examines the role technology has played throughout history in providing avenues to proclaim Christ around the world. Participants should be familiar with how to use Facebook, as we will be working on a Facebook page together as a tool for outreach. n

ON THE MOVE

Phil Krauss ll Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

Voting

Think back to several weeks ago when the first U.S. Presidential primary caucus was underway in Iowa. Things didn’t end there. Even as you read this, I suspect citizens will still be in the midst of a raucous primary voting season. Republican and Democrat candidates for the President of the United States and their political action committees have been spending hundreds of millions of dollars trying to get people to vote for them. Is it working? If you live in the U.S.A, have you decided on the best candidate? If your state’s primary is over, do you know which party’s candidate you will be voting for in the general election?

Rumor has it, there may actually be a couple of interesting national party conventions this year, too.

As a political science major in college, I love these election years. I love studying the candidates, their positions, strategies, and successes or failures. TV commercials gradually move from pharmaceutical and car dealership advertising to nothing but candidate and issue ads. How soon this year will

Pocketknives for Pictures:

the ads become “dirty” (contain mudslinging)?

Maybe I’ll go see candidates this year when they visit Michigan. It’s all so exciting! Yes, I know— for most of you that makes me a bit odd.

But did you know that only 57.5% of eligible American voters voted in the last presidential election in 2012? 2008 was one of the best turnout years of late but still only 63.3% of eligible voters entered a polling booth that year. Voter turnout is much worse on non-presidential election years, and don’t get me started about local elections. This concerns me because it is every citizen’s responsibility to participate in this experiment we call democracy. I often tell my friends, especially the ones who are angry at the government (taxes are too high; the water is contaminated; there’s too much corruption, etc.), that citizens get the government they deserve.

Voters choose their politicians, or they miss their chance; either way, as a part of a representative democracy, citizens are responsible for their government.

That’s what the Men’s NetWork WEAR in the World photo feature is all about. We’re looking for pics from guys wearing Men’s NetWork caps or shirts, or caps and shirts, who are visiting—or happen to live near—world-class destinations. So if As we inch toward spring and the weather you’re around the corner from Ayers Rock, the rockwarms, travelers begin to hit the road. For those hewn tombs of Petra, the Kremlin, or the Mayan visiting landmark destinations here in the U.S. and ruins of Honduras (and you have a Men’s NetWork around the globe—and who are savvy enough to shirt or cap), your job is simple. take a Men’s NetWork cap or shirt with them (see For the rest of us, this might require a flight or at photo) — a neat gift from the Men’s NetWork can least a road trip, but either way there’s nothing more be theirs, for very little work. to the WEAR in the World feature than snapping pictures and sending them to us. So send in a qualifying picture (see rules below), and we’ll return for your efforts one of two very nice pocketknife styles we keep as premiums for just such an occasion. We’re currently offering either a Men’s NetWork pocketknife or a rustic, wood-cased pocketknife, courtesy of The Lutheran Hour radio program.

They’re both simply exquisite—and ridiculously easy to obtain. Qualifying pictures get the prize, get posted to our website, and may even end up in our weekly Men’s Louis Kastens of Edmond, Oklahoma, NetWork e-newsletter. standing at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, near Omaha Beach in Normandy, France.

Men’s NetWork Photo Feature Giveaway

So why do I bring up this age-old problem? Am I using this article to get you to vote?

YES, exactly, but not just in an upcoming national election.

As you read this article (and assuming you’re just like my wife and as soon as The Lutheran Layman comes in the mail, you open it up and read Phil Krauss ll my pithy articles first), you are being asked to participate in a different election. You are being asked to vote for the Board of Directors of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League—and we need you to vote. If you think voting percentages of national elections are bad, you would be shocked at how many LLL members don’t vote for their governing board. This election is even more important because you will be voting on some changes to the Int’l LLL Bylaws, too. Contained in this issue of The Lutheran Layman is information on that important voting. We need you to vote for many reasons. There are Bylaw requirements plus law requirements, but mostly so you can have your say.

Vote in national elections and vote in the Int’l LLL elections; you’ll feel better exercising your civic responsibility. n

Here’s how your picture can win: 1. The photo must show you wearing a recognizable Men’s NetWork item—hat or shirt.

2. The picture must be of an identifiable and commonly accepted landmark location! We define this as the majority of the judges can view the picture and immediately recognize where the photo was taken. If the judges have to go to the Internet to find the location, well, it’s probably not easily recognizable. NOTE: standing by a sign naming the location in the picture may not make it recognizable, either.

3. To receive your prize, you must include your full mailing information and tell us which pocketknife you prefer: Men’s NetWork or The Lutheran Hour.

4. The decision of our esteemed and impartial panel of judges is final.

For details and the submission process, go to the Men’s Network at www.lhm.org/men. There you’ll see the WEAR in the World box at the top right of the page. n

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

11

2016 Election:

Candidates

Int’l LLL Board of Directors for the

The following are candidates for open positions on the Int’l LLL Board of Directors in compliance with Article III of the current Bylaws. Additional information about the 2016 election will be mailed to all contributing members in April along with instructions for voting. (Contributing members are defined as those individuals who gave a gift to Lutheran Hour Ministries between Oct. 1, 2014, and March 31, 2016, and are members of a congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod or Lutheran Church—Canada). To be counted, ballots or online votes must be received by the Int’l LLL’s chosen tabulation firm between April 20 and May 30.

Results will be reported this summer in The Lutheran Layman.

For Chair: (listed in alphabetical order; vote for one) Johnson graduated as a director of Christian outreach (DCO) from Concordia, St. Paul (CSP), and later earned his M.A. in nonprofit management and Ph.D. in leadership and organizational change. He served congregations in Nebraska and Colorado as a DCO, then returned to CSP to teach outreach and coordinate the DCO program. He joined the staff of the Minnesota South District of the LCMS in Phillip Johnson 2013 as assistant to the president for mission Maplewood, Minnesota formation. Johnson currently serves as vice chair for the Int’l LLL Board. Married for 36 years, he and his wife are blessed with four children and seven grandchildren.

12

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

Married and the father of two, Krauss earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Adrian College (Adrian, Mich.) and Marygrove College (Detroit). He is a financial aid advisor for Oakland University and assists students in securing funding for their higher education. He has previous administrative, program development, and marketing experience with Oakland Community College, Marygrove College, Philip Krauss II Charter One Bank, Eastern Michigan UniverWestland, Michigan sity, and Adrian College. Krauss is currently chair for the Int’l LLL Board and also serves as an LHM ambassador. He previously was an LLL regional governor and committee chair and has held several local posts such as district chair.

For Director: (listed in alphabetical order; vote for four) Borer-Skov earned degrees from Concordia College, Seward, Neb., and Wayne State University (Detroit). She was employed by California State University as a chemistry professor, retiring in 2008. Married, Borer-Skov served on the Foundation Board at Concordia University Irvine and is very active as a leader in the LWML. A current member of the Int’l LLL Board, she has participated in Londa Borer-Skov LHM tours to several countries and spent Sacramento, California six weeks on a mission trip to Brazil. She was named educator of the year at Concordia University Seward in 2000, and has also received recognition as outstanding chemistry teacher and graduate assistant.

Martin is a security specialist for NetCracker Technologies, Inc. of Waltham, Mass., where he is part of the security development team for the multinational telecom support company. Previous positions include a security account and global security manager for Securitas Security Services, Inc. His service with the LLL includes secretary and regional governor at the international level and presPaul Martin ident of the New England district. He has Fitchburg, Massachusetts served many positions in his home congregation, including president, secretary, trustee, and Sunday school superintendent. Married with three children and two grandchildren, Martin earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from WPI in Worcester, Mass.

Onnen is general manager for a natural resources district and handles administration, budgeting, personnel, planning, and legislative matters. He has served the LLL at the international level as president, secretary, regional governor, and committee chairman. He has also been district president, district vice president, special projects chair, and zone presiMichael “Mick” Onnen dent, vice president, and secretary. Married with three children and six grandchildren, Davenport, Nebraska Onnen has served several roles in his congregation (including chairman and elder). He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska and is a member of the Davenport Community Foundation Board (previously charter president and now vice president).

Partlow is management consult and expert witness in court, and was previously VP of Boeing, Lucent Technologies, and AT&T. He is a member of LHM’s National Leadership Council for the SENT Initiative, serves his church and LCMS district, and was president of two previous congregations. He served on the boards of Transforming Churches Network and Lutheran Social Ministries of New Jersey and Gene Partlow has been honored as “Volunteer of the Year” Williamsburg, Virginia

by Thrivent and by the New Jersey Citizens for Life. Married (father of six), Partlow earned a B.S. degree from the University of Illinois and an M.B.A. from Northwestern University.

Married and the father of two, Pettit earned a degree in administration/accounting (C.P.A.) at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Currently he is treasurer on the Int’l LLL Board. He is employed with the Nebraska District LCMS as treasurer and vice president of the district’s Lutheran Church Extension Fund after serving with C.P.A. firms and private companies.

In this position he assists individuals and Paul Pettit congregations with LCEF loans and investor Lincoln, Nebraska services, ministry resources, congregational finance questions, and Worker Benefit Plans. Pettit has been active in local church positions and has experience in financial management, budgets, property, personnel, and computer systems.

Retired with the International Union of United Auto Workers, Sindlinger previously was a die maker and a missionary in Liberia. Married and the father of two, he was an LLL district president and chaired the LLL presidents’ meeting. A current Int’l LLL Board member, Sindlinger has been a congregational Ambassador since 1970. He also served the local conRichard “Dick” Sindlinger gregation in other leadership roles, including president and deacon. He volunteered with York, Pennsylvania an LLL work team in response to rebuilding New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, served on the United Way Board, and was a vice president and president for the Thrivent Financial Board.

Snow has a degree in mathematics from South Dakota State College (Brookings, S.D.), and is married (father of five). He worked his way to operations auditor of Mobil Oil Corporation, N.Y., being with the company since 1960. Currently on the Int’l LLL Board, he previously was regional governor, district president and vice president, and zone president and vice president. Snow facilitates William “Bill” Snow a weekly Bible study in his local congregaWatertown, South Dakota tion after serving many leadership roles including chairman, vice chairman, and elder. He is treasurer of Watertown’s Senior Activities Center and was previously “Member of the Year” in the local Cosmopolitan Club.

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

13

Bylaws Changes

Proposed for 2016 Election

During the 2016 election that runs from April 20 through May 30, International Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries’ members will vote on three proposed Bylaws changes, in addition to open positions on the Board. Below is a short explanation of the changes that the Board of Directors recommends for adoption and has approved to appear on the ballot.

• As part of the governance changes implemented in 2012, the membership elected an entirely new Board of Directors to replace the Board of Governors that had been in place under the previous structure. To create staggered terms allowing for as seamless a transition as possible, one-third of the Board (other than Chairman and Vice Chairman) served for one year, one-third served for two years and one-third served for three years. Now that the initial terms have expired, all references to the transitional terms would be eliminated from the Bylaws since they will not apply for future elections. In the Bylaws sections below, these changes are indicated in red.

• As a membership organization incorporated in Missouri, the International Lutheran Laymen’s League is required by state law to have at least 10% of its membership vote during an election for it to be considered valid. Not meeting this requirement in a given year would result in funding an additional election at significant cost. After having more than 17% of our membership vote in 2012, voter participation has decreased the past three years to between 11% and 12% each year, which led to costly follow-up communications being produced to help surpass the 10% level. To assure that the Int’l LLL continues to meet Missouri’s 10% requirement, the addition of voter registration allows for a voting membership to be formed each year. The 10% requirement would then only apply to those who have registered to vote. In the Bylaws sections below, these changes are indicated in blue.

• In recent years, many nonprofit organizations (including LHM) have changed the title of their top staff position from 14

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

“Executive Director” to “President & CEO.” Changing this title can positively influence an organization’s internal and external perceptions, its culture and its financial growth. In addition to updating this title throughout the document, the Board would be given authority to make appropriate changes to the chief staff member’s title in the future without requiring additional revisions to the Bylaws. In the Bylaws sections below, these changes are indicated in green.

The sections of the Bylaws that are affected by the proposed changes are listed below and color coded as identified above. Text to be deleted is indicated by a strikethrough, and text to be added is indicated by an underline.

A copy of the full Bylaws can be found online at www.lhm.org/about/board.asp.

AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS Adopted at 2010 Int’l LLL Convention; Revisions approved in 2012 election.

Color-coded insertions and deletions shown below reflect the proposed changes to be voted on during the Spring 2016 election conducted with all active members of the Int’l LLL/Lutheran Hour Ministries.

ARTICLE II— Structure Section A—Elections to the Board, changes to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, and major matters which the Board deems necessary for approval by the membership or which are required to be submitted to the Membersmembers by Missouri law, shall be submitted to all members for a ballot vote to those members who are at the time registered to vote in accordance with these Bylaws.

Section C—The Board shall select an Executive Directorindividual who, under its supervision and direction, shall carry on the general affairs of the League. The Executive Director This individual shall hold the title of “President & CEO” (or such other

title as is designated in Board Policy), and shall be a member of the staff of the League. It shall be his or her duty to approve the expenditure of the monies appropriated by the Board in accordance with the budget approved by the Board. The Executive DirectorPresident & CEO shall make an annual report and periodic reports to the Board concerning the operations of the League. He or she shall comply with all orders from the Board. All employees shall report and be responsible to the Executive Director President & CEO. He or she shall perform such other duties as may be determined from time to time by the Board.

Section D—Districts shall be integral parts of the League even though they may be separately incorporated. The articles of incorporation, (if incorporated) constitution and bylaws (and any amendments thereof) of each district shall be in harmony with the purposes and objectives of the League and shall become effective only after approval as spelled out in policies of the Board.

The district may be divided into geographic zones or divisions as determined by the district’s governing board. Each zone’s or division’s articles of incorporation, constitution and bylaws and amendments, as well as geographic divisions, programs and activities, are subject to the review and approval of the Executive DirectorPresident & CEO. The programs and activities of all districts and zones shall in all respects a) be in harmony with the purposes and objectives of the League, b) support efforts, interests, time or funds from the Int’l LLL’s programs and activities, and c) not jeopardize the Int’l LLL’s tax exempt status nor subject the Int’l LLL to possible legal or financial liability. All other matters of form and function of Districts and zones shall be spelled out in the policies of the Board of Directors.

All districts and zones are intended to be included in the League’s I.R.S. group exemption letter as of the date of adoption of these Bylaws and shall continue to be included until the Board decides otherwise.

Section G—Further formations based on geographic areas, culture, and current needs may be established by the Board and be included in Policy.

In such cases, all operational documents for these areas must be in harmony with the purposes and objectives of the League as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the League and are subject to approval by the Board or its legal designee. The programs and activities of the LHM Affili-

ated Groups and such further formations shall in all respects be in harmony with the purposes and objectives of the League and any program or activity which is not part of the programs or activities of the League shall only be undertaken after approval by the Executive DirectorPresident & CEO. ARTICLE III—Board Composition and Functions Section B—Board Composition. The Board is made up of fourteen (14) elected individuals: a Chairman, Vice Chairman, and twelve (12) other Board Members. A Secretary and a Treasurer shall be chosen from the 12 other Board Members. A Pastoral Advisor who is an ordained clergyman in good standing with the LCMS or LCC and a member of the League shall be appointed by the Board to serve as the spiritual leader of the Board and as a non-voting member. The Executive DirectorPresident & CEO is an ex-officio member with voice but no vote on the Board. At least one elected member of the Board will be a resident of Canada and a member of an LCC congregation. Liaisons from the LCMS and LCC, as approved by the Board, may attend and speak at meetings of the Board, but carry no vote.

Section E—Committees. The Board shall form six standing committees: the Audit Committee; the Budget and Finance Committee; the Board Development Committee; the Fund Development Committee; the Compensation and Evaluation Committee (dealing with the Executive DirectorPresident & CEO and potential employee matters); and the Nominations Committee. At least two members of each committee will be elected Board Members, and other members of the League may be appointed from outside the Board by a majority of the Directors. Other committees of short duration may be formed by the Board with specific functions. All committees report to the Board. All committees shall adhere to the requirements of Sections 355.376 to 355.401 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, which govern meetings, action without meetings, notice and waiver of notice, and quorum and voting requirements of the Board, which apply to committees of the Board and committee members as well, pursuant to Section 355.406 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. The Board may designate one or more standing or special Committees to direct the business of the Corporation. Each such Committee may exercise the authority granted to it by the Board’s enabling resolution.

1. The Audit Committee shall assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities. The Audit Committee shall consist of no less than three members who possess a basic understanding of finance and accounting and be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, and at least one member of the Audit Committee shall have accounting or related financial management expertise. The Audit Committee shall meet no less than two times per year and have

those authorities spelled out in policy.

2. The Nominations Committee shall consist of five members: the chairman shall be selected by the Board; two Board Members shall be selected whose term of office extends to include the appointment period, who are nominated by the Chairman of the Board and approved by the Board; and two additional members of the League appointed from outside the current Board (these may be former Board members) who are nominated by the Chairman of the Board, with Board approval. The committee serves for a 12- month period from the time of appointment. The committee will follow Board Policy and specific criteria for selecting nominees to run for positions.

3. The Nominations Committee will establish procedures for nomination by petition of members for candidates for all elected positions, such procedures to be approved by the Board. The Board also has final approval on the slate of candidates presented by the Nominations Committee.

Section F— Elections 1. Voting - Members–Eligible members of the League shall have authority to vote for the election of Directors, and officers other than the Secretary and Treasurer, and to vote on any proposal submitted for consideration at convention. to the membership. In order to be eligible to vote, a member must register to vote with the League corporate office during the year of the election pursuant to the procedures set forth in Board Policy, and must comply with the balloting and voting procedures set forth in Board Policy. Official ballots shall be sent to members who are registered to vote and returned according to the procedures required by Section 355.266 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. Each member entitled to vote shall be entitled one (1) vote on all matters properly submitted to the membership. Except as otherwise provided by law, by the Articles of Incorporation or by these Bylaws, all action shall be decided by a majority vote of the members casting votes on a particular matter.

2. Procedures and Terms of Office i. Chairman and Vice Chairman - A multi-slate ballot of at least two male members will be prepared by the Nominations Committee under the guidance of the Board for qualified men for the positions of Chairman and Vice Chairman. These individuals will be elected for a two-year term of office and may be re-elected to a second consecutive term. ii. Board Members - A multi-slate ballot will be prepared by the Nominations Committee under the guidance of the Board for capable men and women to serve as Board Members. The term of office for the 12 positions of the Board shall be three years, and an individual may run for consecutive re-election only once. Terms are on a staggered basis, so that each year four people (one-third of the Board Members) are elected or re-elected. Because the League is an

auxiliary of LCC, it is imperative that at least one Board seat always be filled by a nominee who is a Canadian resident and a communicant member of a congregation located in Canada. When the Canadian Board member’s seat is up for re-election, there shall be at least two Canadian nominees for the Canadian Board member seat. iii. Initial Term of Office - There will be twelve members of the Board elected during the initial national election, with one of the twelve members being a Canadian resident. To create the stagger in the terms of office for the Board, onethird (1/3) of the Board members (other than the Chairman and Vice Chairman) shall serve a one- year term, one-third (1/3) of the Board members shall serve a two-year term and one- third (1/3) of the Board members shall serve a three-year term. These initial terms do not count toward the term limits specified above. The initial stagger shall be determined at the first Board meeting following the national election and will be done by drawing the numbers one, two or three in alphabetic order of the Board members. There will be four number ones, four number twos and four number threes to determine the initial years of service of a Board member.

Because the League is an auxiliary of LCC, it is imperative that at least one Board seat always be filled by a nominee who is a Canadian resident and a communicant member of a congregation located in Canada. This shall mean that for the initial election there shall be at least two Canadian nominees for the Canadian Board member seat. When the Canadian Board member’s seat is up for re-election, there shall be at least two Canadian nominees for the Canadian Board member seat. iii. iv. Secretary and Treasurer - Candidates shall be selected from sitting members on the Board. The Nominations Committee shall present the candidates and shall prepare a ballot containing the names of the recommended candidates.

The term of office shall be one year and there is no limit on number of re-elections. iv. v. Additional Standards - After one or more intervening years off the Board, a candidate may be reconsidered for the same position. In the case of any person appointed by the Board to fill a vacancy, the partial term will not count towards the two-term limit. Each term of office is to coincide with the League’s fiscal year. see next page The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

15

Bylaws Changes

(from page 15) v. vi. Vacancies - Vacancies in any of the offices occasioned by death, resignation, disqualification, incapacity, or any reason other than normal expiration of term of office, shall be filled by election by the Board. A person elected to fill a vacancy shall serve for the unexpired portion of the term of office to which he has been elected and qualified. The length of time served by any officer elected to fill a vacancy shall be disregarded in determining the number of terms to which an individual may be elected to such office of the League. In the event a vacancy shall occur in the office of Chairman, the Vice Chairman shall succeed to the office of Chairman and serve out the unexpired term.

ARTICLE IV – Conventions and Conferences Section C - Petition and Appeal. Members of the League may bring forth a formal petition to the Board at any time, requesting consideration of an important matter for the well-being of the organization. A petition must contain the verified signatures of at least 300 active members, indicating their complete addresses. The matter may be taken up by the Board for consideration and action. If the Board chooses not to consider the petition, then the petitioners may present an appeal to the Chairman of the Board for automatic consideration at the next convention.

Members assembled in convention must vote by simple majority to present the petition to the entire membership for a final vote. If presentation of the petition passes, then a ballot shall be drafted and sent to all members who are then registered to vote in accordance with these Bylaws.

Ballots must be returned within 40 days of being sent. A 2/3rds majority of returned ballots shall be necessary for passage. n

16

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

God’s Word

in Changing Times When Pastor Greg Fairow embraced the ministry opportunity as a campus pastor at two campus ministries in Wisconsin and one in Oregon, all three were struggling, at best, upon his arrival but grew significantly during his tenure. In recent years he has been active at Arizona State University (ASU) and (by God’s grace) has groomed the outreach of student volunteers, reports Lou Marting, president of the LLL Southern California District.

“While God’s Word doesn’t change, culture does change,” he said. “Campus ministries need to adapt appropriately to make the most of their God-given opportunities to share His love in their respective communities.”

He’s also the executive director of Transforming Campus Ministries, a Recognized Service Organization of the LCMS that helps churches around the country start new campus ministries and transform existing ones.

Since the university was formed in 1885, student needs dramatically have changed. Today there are more than 76,000 enrolled with the university. Due to such a large student body and with a wide range of diverse degrees being offered, it can be challenging to meet the spiritual needs of students. Yet, humans still retain the basic needs that span the ages. Among them is security, hope,

purpose, and direction in life. This is where the spiritual, Christ-centered element is vitally important.

“We cannot continue to act as if it were the 1950s to 1960s, when lots of college students sought out campus ministries. Today we need to go where the students are to start to build positive relationships with them that will open doors to share the Gospel with them.”

Witnessing in the university venue often takes participants beyond their comfort zones in ways they are unaccustomed to share their Christian faith. Fairow sees this as a blessed opportunity to “‘go and make disciples’ (see Matthew 28:19) at a time in life when many students may be more receptive to the Gospel.”

“While we’re always seeking to invite more ASU students and others to participate, we’re more interested in the relationships with others that our current participants are nurturing and the opportunities they create to share Christ’s love,” said Pastor Greg. “As the Christ-centered relationships grow, participation will increase.”

The Sunshine Zone of the Southern California District of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League supports Lutheran Ministry at ASU. For details on Lutheran Ministry at ASU, contact Pastor Greg at pastorgreg@consultant.com. n

Student participants flank Pastor Fairow (back row, third from right) who has spent several years in the active Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod campus ministry.

Since August 2015 he has been at Arizona State University. Volunteers emphasize equipping participants to share Christ’s love with others.

ON THE MOVE

by Kurt Buchholz President & CEO Lutheran Hour Ministries

Average I’ve been hearing a lot of discussion concerning averages.

The West Coast is having above average rainfall; the East Coast is having above average snowfalls; glacial icepack in the Northern Hemisphere is below average while to the south it is growing. Average student debt is at an all-time high; stock prices are down (or up) on average; the global Christian church is growing, but our churches in North America are declining on average. We have grown comfortable judging the health of any system, measurement, or thing—even church—related to some calculation of what is average.

For one in my position, who always watches church-related statistics and trends, I worry that people are equating a statistic’s relation to average with a value judgement of the statistic being normal or right. Think of it this way: by definition, if you have some years of little to no snow and your average snowfall is 20 inches, then 36 inches of snow can also be normal.

But when you hear of that statistically normal 36 inch snowfall on the evening news it is a “Snowmageddon” or somehow abnormal and something to fear.

The same goes for the church. Is reporting overly focused on the average decline while ignoring the truth that there are many congregations and ministries averaging out the closing congregations? These above-average ministries are growing and impacting their communities in new and exciting ways each and every day.

The unfortunate result of this average focus is that it creates a narrative in our church body that goes something like this: “Yes, we have seen another year of decline in membership, but all denominational churches in the U.S. are in decline. We will just need to get used to a declining church and figure out how to survive.” That narrative is one of acceptance of a perceived inevitability.

I had a wakeup call when I found myself thinking and parroting much of the same narrative. Such a perspective is poisonous and not in line with what we believe, teach, and confess. I have committed myself to focus on the above average and see what I can learn from what God is doing in our culture, instead of burying my head in the average sand. I invite you to join me! The narrative I seek to shape is something like this: “I know that when Jesus died on the cross, He was doing it for today, for this place and culture, for the realities we face, for you and for me. His message is for our culture in this place, using His people to bear witness to His plan of salvation for all.

Additionally, He has prepared each of us perfectly right now to live out our SENT-ness to share His love in our families, our workplace, our neighborhoods, our society, and our world.”

This narrative emphasizes that God has already prepared you fully, just as you are in Him, to bear witness to His love to those whom He has put in your everyday path who so desperately

need His love and forgiveness. I’m not saying we should not seek to continually study, learn, and be trained— but for today, for right now, you are the perfect/imperfect, SENT-one to do all that God has called you to do in the life of one who is lost. Nothing more is required, just be the person God has made you to be in this moment.

An average decline is a statistical reality, but it shouldn’t define us, our message, or our God. I challenge you to choose your narrative!

Philippians 4:8

: :

Merriam-Webster defines “average” as: a number that is calculated by adding quantities together and then dividing the total by the number of quantities a level that is typical of a group, class, or series: a middle point between extremes

Join LHM in hands-on ministry around the globe. Check out current trips by visiting lhm.org/teams and choose where in the world you want to make a difference!

LU THER A N HO U R M IN IST R IE S

Want to know MORE?

Visit lhm.org/teams/equip and register for an Equip for the Trip webinar. These webinars will give you and your team unique insight into international missions and information on what to expect on your trip.

Topics include: Team building fundraisers local cultural challenges

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

17

z

Betania’s Pastor Isaac Guadalupe Garcia Castillo, left, leads health fair participants in prayer. Pastor Castillo also serves as the president of the Lutheran Synod of Mexico.

Above—care is given in Christian love.

Left—Entrance to the ministry center.

r e t n e C y r t is in M o Mexic Finds a Tech Solution to a Long-distance Need

Iglesia Luterana Betania—Bethany Lutheran Church—in Rio Bravo, Mexico contacted Lutheran Hour Ministries— Mexico because members wanted to celebrate the 16th anniversary of Betania’s ministry with a health fair to demonstrate the congregation’s service to its community. It was an exciting prospect to the staff of LHM’s ministry center, which has served the neighborhoods around two Lutheran Churches in Mexico City with several similar events.

There was one thing standing in the

18

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

way: the city of Rio Bravo, just across Mexico’s border with the United States, is a thirty-hour drive from Mexico City. Traveling to Rio Bravo to put on a health fair—or even train a local health fair team—was out of the question.

The solution? Technology.

“We stayed at LHM headquarters in Mexico City and used the communications capabilities of the Internet to train the volunteers in Rio Bravo!” says LHM—Mexico Director Rafael Ruelas. Once trained, the volunteers in Rio Bravo were equipped to gather supplies, recruit dentists, doctors, and nurses, and move ahead with their plan.

“During their celebration the congregation offered free workshops, breast cancer awareness seminars, general health checkups, and more,” says Rafael. “They also offered a session for children on how to brush their teeth. And of course, people who came enjoyed plenty of good food and a time of praise.”

Want more information about the innovative ministry and outreach of Lutheran Hour Ministries—Mexico? You’ll find it at cptlnmexico.wordpress.com. n

Ready to

Wo r k?

I

n less than two months the 2016 Men’s NetWork WORK DAY will be here. All you need are a few able bodies, some tools of the trade, a healthy enthusiasm to make a big difference in the lives of others—and a project.

This year we’re encouraging men to get off their church campuses and make some inroads into their neighborhoods and communities to do their work. While there may be jobs you can do at your home church (when aren’t there?), it’s out in the field, so to speak, where your group can help those who can truly benefit from your muscle power—and in a big way.

So this year think about those who may never cross the threshold of a church. There may be opportunities to help folks who can’t help themselves; there may be a chance for your efforts to turn someone’s attention to the Savior, in whose Name you labor.

That’s not a bad return for a little sweat on your brow.

And the exhortation to invite a friend or family member with you who might not be a church “regular” still stands.

A little work, along with some conversation and job satisfaction, can begin to build bridges that connect people in remarkable ways.

As always, registration is easy. It’s done by one person from the group, with each member included in the group receiving a Men’s NetWork cap to wear the day of the event.

Find all the details at www.lhm.org/men/workday. n

work day On April 30, 2016, the fourth annual Men’s NetWork WORK DAY will take place! Join men from around the country as they serve their communities and neighborhoods, targeting needs with outreach. Go to lhm.org/men/workday to find out more and sign up!

SATURDAY

APRIL 30 The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

19

y r t s i n i M n i n o i Act

ill topics that w g n ri lo p x e RD! r theran Hou AD HIS WO u E L R e P h S T f to o U t en UIP YO A new segm ITH and EQ A F R U O Y ENRICH

Spotlights Validity of Scripture If you’ve been tuning into The Lutheran Hour’s In this last segment, Seltz asks Pastor Hower, Action in Ministry (AIM) segments lately, you know it “How can history can help us, in some sense, valihas focused on two of the most widely used tools Lu- date Scripture?” theran Hour Ministries produces: Bible studies and Hower said, “Well, it’s not only the history of the Project Connect topical booklets. Most AIM seg- Bible; it’s the history outside the Bible that verifies the ments feature in-studio video of the interview, which events of the Bible. The Bible is unlike any other book; includes Theyour Lutheran Speaker Rev. Dr. Greg- it’s an historic book. It can be examined in other peoListen on local Hour station, ory Seltz, Senior Radio Producer Mark Eischer, and more ple’s history: history, us in Phoenician histoLearn at in EgyptianFollow on Facebook! online,guest. or download that week’s These interviews can be accessed ry, in Assyrian history.

There are places you can examlutheranhourministries LUTHERANHOUR.ORG app TODAY! onlineTLH at www.lutheranhour.org.

Here there are op- ine that still exist, and archaeology is another reason. tions to download and print a booklet (or order one It has proven the history of the Bible to be accurate.” for FREE to be mailed), or the chance to watch the Concerning the Old Testament prophets, he added, Bible studies online.

“There’s no doubt that these books that made specific Recent AIM segments include Dr. Jeffrey Kloha, prophetic pronouncements are historically preceding the events that were the fulfillment, especially regarding the Messiah.”

Seltz emphasized how important the prophetic fulfillment of Scripture is for believers, especially in respect to the life of Christ. “How can people not say this guy’s unique?”

Hower agreed: “Just in relation to His birth, but also in relation to His death, the two most important teachings of the Christian church is that He was truly God incarnate; He was ‘Immanuel, God with us’ (see AIM featured Pastor Hower Matthew 1:23). But when you look and Rev. Dr. Seltz recently on at the prophecies, even Nathaniel, the subject of Scripture. he said, ‘Can anything good come out of Galilee? (See John 1:43-51) … because he knew the prophecy professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Semi- said (Christ) had to be born in Bethlehem, but Jesus nary in St. Louis. He spoke to Scripture’s truthfulness was from Nazareth so He can’t be the Messiah. He in reference to the Bible study, How We Got the Bible. didn’t know He had come out of Nazareth—that He Maggie Hilmer and Lorri Hackett addressed the roles was born in Bethlehem—that He would flee to Egypt. of caregiver and care-receiver, tying their thoughts There’s so many prophecies even about His birth that back to the booklet, Speaking of Care, which Hilmer seem contradictory and they’re so complex that no co-authored with her husband, Ron. Highlighting the one else could make the claim of being Messiah. He Bible study Who Am I? What Am I Doing Here?, Dr. did come out of Zebulun; He did come out of the land Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology at of Naphtali, from Galilee. He was born in Bethlehem.

Concordia Seminary, offered his insights on the rea- He did come out of Egypt. Who else has done that?” son for our existence. And addressing how history, Seltz: “And you can’t even fashion that.” archaeology, and prophecy all point to the truth of Hower: “No, You couldn’t make that up, and so Scripture, Pastor Stephen Hower of St. John Church in that prophecy as complex and as apparently contraEllisville, Missouri, shared observations that he previ- dicting as it is, is important to verify that Jesus was ously articulated in his booklet Reasons to Believe. indeed the Messiah.” n 20

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

For Hicham Chehab, Christ’s “Sermon on the Mount” brought lasting change for the better.

H

Growing Up as a Muslim

icham Chehab has an intense and fascinating story. Growing up Muslim in Lebanon in a world of high tension between Muslims and Christians, he was attacked and injured when he was seven. By age 13 he was recruited by an extremist Muslim group; later he fought against Christians at the onset of Lebanon’s bitter Civil War in 1975. He lost a brother (killed by a Christian militia) in 1980, which only intensified his animosity toward Christians.

It was in attending college, however, during this period where he heard Christ’s “Sermon on the Mount” in a course on cultural studies. The Words of the Savior were transformational for him.

Around this time Chehab also came into contact with Pastor Bernard Lutz who was serving Lutheran Hour Ministries in Lebanon. Through the relationship with our ministry center there, LHM-Lebanon (known locally as Middle East Lutheran Ministry), he was nurtured in the faith and came to an understanding of Lutheran doctrine. Today Chehab is a pastor of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. He is an associate pastor for Salam Christian Fellowship on staff at Peace Lutheran Church in Lombard, Illinois.

Recently, we asked him two questions: one addressed Christian outreach to Muslims; the other wanted to know how his life was transformed by Jesus’ Words in the “Sermon on the Mount.” Pastor Chehab will be featured in the upcoming Bible study from Lutheran Hour Ministries on Islam.

What are three things Christians should remember when reaching out to Muslims with the Gospel?

“First, friendship and respect. Second, do not denigrate Muhammad, the Qur’an, or Islam. Third, preach the Gospel, not yourself, and draw Muslims into the Scriptures. The Word of God is mighty and sharper than a double-edged sword. Do not begin with difficult doctrines like the Trinity or the Son of God. Ask questions, and listen with respect, even if you find some Islamic theological ideas contradictory. Have patience, try to gain your Muslim friend’s trust, and get ready for the long haul.”

Evidently, God working through Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount” was instrumental in leading you to faith in Christ as your Savior.

Can you elaborate on why this was so and what in particular made such an impression on you?

“I read the Sermon on the Mount at the climax of my hate and thirst for vengeance. Christ’s exhortation: ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven’ (Matthew 5:45) struck me with full force. I felt that I heard the voice of God in stereo. I, who knew what is an enemy, and set out to kill my enemies, felt that Jesus’ exhortation was superhuman and cannot emanate from an ordinary human being, but from a divine source. I had memorized half of the Qur’an by heart, by then, and studied Sharia law, but I had never heard or read anything like that before in Islam.

“Even though I was taught by Muslim clerics that the Bible was distorted by rabbis and bishops, Christ’s words ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’, and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ (Luke 10:27) sounded authentically divine. I had never read or heard anybody speak about loving God that powerful way. Then, Jesus’ words about the greatest commandments showed me how we all have sinned and fell short of the glory of God. I realized that Jesus’ demands to love God surpasses all the Islamic requirements— like observing the five pillars of Islam, for going to paradise. Hence, our works were really like filthy rags, and we cannot make it on our own, or with our spiritual exercises, but faith in Jesus Christ.

“Even through the loss of my brother, and amid my lust for vengeance, I thought: There is another way, a way of forgiveness. I found peace for my broken heart in the Prince of Peace.” n

WELCOME ADULTS INTO YOUR CHURCH

WITH A VIDEO-BASED CONFIRMATION COURSE! Hosted by Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, GodConnects features 12 video sessions exploring Christianity. Each segment has a discussion guide, PowerPoint presentation, and doctrine approved by the LCMS. Take the guesswork out of publicizing your class with free, customizable promotional resources!

LHM.ORG/GODCONNECTS

also available

in Spanish!

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

21

INSIGHTS 22

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

From The

Men’s NetWork Blog Each week the Men’s NetWork sends out an e-newsletter with updates on new men’s groups joining, upcoming men’s group events scheduled around the country, and more. Five entries inform readers on items like international mission trip options, outreach resources, future webinars, topical booklets of interest, what’s going on at The Lutheran Hour, any new Bible studies coming down the pike, and other noteworthy items. And each week the e-news is capped with a blog written by Rev. Wayne Palmer, Lutheran Hour Ministries’ theological editor/writer.

Blog inspiration comes from a variety of sources, according to Palmer, “Generally, I keep my eyes open for current events in sports, news, entertainment, or other situations—both good and bad—that arise in my own life or family, or perhaps even a friend’s. I see what’s trending on social media. I’m looking for things that resonate with me and lead me to think how this topic relates to people’s spiritual lives.”

Blog subjects have ranged from the agony of letting down your team (i.e., placekicker Blair Walsh and the Minnesota Vikings in this year’s NFL playoffs) in “Beating Back Failure” to “How Doctors Die,” which quoted Dr. Joanna Bisgrove as saying, “The most important thing that doctors know and accept that most people don’t is the limits of what medicine can do.”

Here’s a sample of some blog entries along with a few responder comments from the last few months. This one was titled “Things Left Unsaid.”

“When reading through the Gospels, it’s striking how few words are used to describe Jesus’ actual physical sufferings. The brutal flogging and savage nailing to the cross are both mentioned only in passing, as the evangelist (Gospel-writer) moves toward his main point: ‘Then he (Pilate) released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered Him to be crucified’ (Matthew 27:26), and ‘When they had crucified Him, they divided His garments among them by casting lots’” (Matthew 27:35).

One responder had this to say: “The more I read the Bible the more I am amazed at what a masterpiece of brevity it is, better by far than any Reader’s Digest condensed book. How the four Gospel writers could convey so much of our Lord’s life, teachings, and miracles in such short works is unexplainable outside of divine inspiration. … I am thankful God made the Gospels and the whole Bible the length they are, and that we can carry around one book instead of needing a wheelbarrow to carry (some) encyclopedia-type books (Life of Jesus, volume 26 would not be nearly as handy to take to the hospital or nursing home as what we have!).

… In my weak moments, I do ask God, ‘Could You give us more details of a day in the life of Christ and … a little less book of Numbers?’ But it is all good!”

In “Life Creeps In” the fine art of sharing one’s faith was broached.

Palmer wrote, “When we share our faith with someone who has never heard of Jesus … We’re talking to people who already have a worldview, with their own ideas of how the system works, where it came from, and what life is all about. I could well be wrong, but I find people are more open to our spiritual discussions when they touch on personal experience: i.e., the struggles they are having with life, rather than on great philosophical questions.”

Here’s what one responder said: “Another good and intriguing article. Rather than avoiding certain conversations in most situations, I found it helpful to not argue an opposing point, at least not in an initial conversation. Rather, I ask further questions that invite the other person to substantiate their argument with facts. Often times, by listening, you can find some gaps or misunderstandings. This allows an opportunity for the person to accept these gaps, graciously.

If I can show respect to the person in the conversation, there is a better possibility of them hearing my point later. What do you think?”

“In Need of a New Year’s Resolution?” took a look at making our lives count in a big way.

“I came across an interesting article in Relevant Magazine, titled, ‘Why Aren’t Millennials Having Sex Anymore?’ It included a fascinating quote from theologian Russell Moore: ‘This is why sexual revolutions always turn out so boring. This is why the sterile, casual, condom-clad vision of sex in our culture is so dull….They are looking to be part of an all-encompassing cosmic mystery.

They are looking for a love that is stronger than death.’ How many New Year’s resolutions are centered in this search for something deeper, something more lasting, something stronger than death?”

For another responder, the annual flip of the calendar page was a chance to continue in the new what had been started in the old. “I look for the same thing I looked for in 2015 … more of God in the chaos of the world, more focus on the purpose to which He has carried me through the last 11 years; whittling, shaping, and correcting me to be. I look for my voice, silenced in years past, to cry out for men to be MEN … leading their families in the chaos of the times, finding godly women to be collaborators and renegades with them for the sake of the family and our society’s future. I look for the aches and pains of this body overworked for the sake of service to my neighbor in impoverished lives (economic, social, or spiritual). I look for those who will walk with me when we need a breather and run with me as we reach into a world confused by the doctrine of the day and hurting by the abuses of sinful humanity. … There will be days I fail, days I succeed, but each day will start out like they have since 2/14/2004: ‘Lord, this day as I get out of this bed; I ask You to give me eyes that I may see what You would have me see, lips to speak what You would have me say, ears to hear what You would have me hear, hands to grasp that which should be bound and to release that which is not mine to hold. But above all this, Lord Jesus, I pray that You will give me the feet to walk the narrow path You would have me walk today and the awareness to grab onto You when I stumble.”

These reactions show how a blog can be a fertile place for the exchange of ideas. “A blog can be a springboard to larger, more vibrant discussion because the reader sees something that reverberates in his or her own life journey,” Palmer said. “Living in this broken world we share so many struggles—finances, health, aging, relationships, grief; a blog touches on those things and enables us to share our human experiences, and look to the Savior who mends our brokenness,” he added.

Getting on the mailing list for the Men’s NetWork e-newsletter and blog is easy. Just go to lhm.org/men. There you click on “Startin’ Up” at the top left of the page and sign up. While you’re there, check out all the other features and resources of the Men’s NetWork. n

Daily Boosts from LHM It doesn’t cost a thing for you to join the multitude of online visitors who regularly follow Daily Devotions at www.lhm.org. In fact, the experience can enrich your life and your outlook each day. For example, Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, recently shared this: “What if Jesus would have stayed? Have you ever asked that question? If Jesus had remained on earth, would He have silenced all skeptics, healed all diseases, fed the hungry, housed the homeless? Wouldn’t the world be a better place if He would have stayed? “…Jesus worked many great healing miracles to show God’s concern for our daily struggles. But you and I have far bigger problems than our physical, material needs on earth — Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz no matter how pressing these might be.

“No, Jesus didn’t come into the world to set it right. He will do that when He returns the next time on Judgment Day — but not the first time. No, the first time He came to set you and me right — right with God our Father.

“That wasn’t as simple a thing as you might think. It was a full-time job for Jesus. Every hour of His life He was busy doing those things necessary to remove the barrier between God, on the one hand, and you and me, on the other. He was busy obeying His Father’s will perfectly — in His thoughts, words, and deeds. He was busy loving His Father with all His heart, all His mind, all His soul, and all His strength. He was busy loving His neighbor as Himself. For all the times you and I falter and fail at this thing called life, Jesus had to be absolutely perfect. It was the see next page

Energize

His Disciples!

Through onsite seminars at your church, MISSION U is designed to give you the tools and training to confidently reach people with the real news of Jesus Christ.

lhm.org/MissionU

Limited Time Offer!

Register by April 30, 2016 Pay only $600 per course!

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

23

Daily Boost (from page 23)

news. He said, “To the best of my knowledge, none of the Daily Devotions readers have won the $1.6 only way to make us right with God. “But that wasn’t enough, either…. So…He took upon billion Powerball lottery.”

This led him into a conversation with wife Pam. Himself all our sins, and carried them to the cross.

There He bore the full punishment of God His Father “As we drove…we (talked) about what we would do if for all the forbidden things we do, and for all the good we were ever to receive such a fortune. We spoke of paying off mortgages for our chilthings we know we ought to do, but dren, setting up trust funds for our leave undone. Yes, Jesus suffered and grandchildren, and whether we died for every single sin you have ever would need bodyguards to keep committed or will ever commit. us safe. We spoke of serious things “Because of His suffering and death, and those which were more frivGod the Father is able to forgive us, to olous. We talked of lake cottages restore us, to accept us as His very own and trips…we chatted about the children. And because of Jesus’ glorious cars we might like…..But, as I said, third-day resurrection, death is swalyou didn’t win, and we didn’t, eilowed up in life, and our eternal future ther.” is secured with God in heaven. That’s When a husband and wife why Jesus became human and came to made it public that they had won earth to live among us….His life gives a large portion of the prize, Pasour lives purpose and meaning. Now tor Klaus was surprised to hear we can rejoice in God our Savior. Now that they were “going to continue we can live in peace and joy as His dear Pastor Ken Klaus to live in their modest home and, children, and we can spread the story although they no longer need to, of His indescribable love for us.”

Pastor Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus of The they will keep their current jobs. They said on the Lutheran Hour, also shares duties in providing de- following Monday they intended to show up at work, votions (as do international guests). Not long ago he as if nothing had happened.”

Pastor Klaus added, “I was surprised…I admired spoke about people who receive some really good

From the LWML

24

The Lutheran Layman March - April 2016

For details, go to www.lhm.org and click on Daily Devotions.

Children Were the Winners

W

Special thanks to the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League for its support of LHM’s outreach to refugees in Lebanon. LWML President Patti Ross presented LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz with a grant check for $72,000 when the LWML Executive Committee met at LHM’s headquarters, Feb. 3. The grant was approved during last summer’s LWML National Convention to help LHM share the Gospel of Christ with destitute Syrian women and children in poverty-stricken refugee camps and provide basic humanitarian supplies. “We are proud to partner with the LWML by coming together in mission to share God’s Word with those who have not heard it,” said Buchholz.

them for keeping their values and standards…but I was also shocked. It occurred to me that life-changing good news should make a profound difference in their lives and the way they approached things.

“The same ought to be said for those who have been given the great news of forgiveness and salvation that has been won for them by the Savior. We have been given the best news possible, and our lives and hearts should reflect that change in wonderful and powerful ways. As St. Paul wrote, ‘If anyone is in Christ He is a new creature. The old has passed away and the new has come.’ It is a transformation which is more sweeping and should cause greater excitement than winning a temporary and, dare I say it, a paltry $1.6 billion.” Pastor Klaus then concluded with a prayer.

Statistically, more than 10,000 people per day read or listen to LHM’s Daily Devotions. Past Daily Devotions are archived at the website, thus offering added resource devotions for small-group Bible studies, family gatherings, and other events. Also, the devotions are available in audio version and in Spanish. It takes only a few moments to subscribe to receive the devotions automatically each day, or to obtain online ministry updates, seasonal devotions, news, and The Lutheran Hour. n

inners have been announced among the many children who entered the recent coloring contest promoted by officials with the Petal Pushers, the volunteer decorating force active with the Southern California District Lutheran Laymen’s League. Winners were grouped in categories: Preschool-Kindergarten; 1st and 2nd Grades; 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grades; as well as 6th, 7th, and 8th Grades. Winners are shown below (last names are not listed for privacy): 1st Place: Subomi A., Memorial Lutheran School, Texas; Kaylin B,.

Redeemer Lutheran School, Texas; Shelby H., Christ Lutheran School, Utah; Karyssa L.,Trinity Lutheran School, Wisconsin.

2nd Place: Adam D., Our Savior Lutheran School, Texas; June K., Concordia Lutheran School, Shanghai, China; Elizabeth T., Salem Lutheran School, California; Nikki N., Christ Lutheran School, Utah.

Shelby H., Christ Lutheran School, Utah; winning entry.

3rd Place: Bret T., King of Kings Lutheran School, Minnesota; Alexa C., Christ Lutheran School, Nebraska; Emanuelli W., Zion Lutheran School, Nebraska; Megan Z., St. Mark Lutheran School, Texas.

Hundreds of contestants participated, providing a significant challenge for judges. n For future information on the contest, or on helping with future Petal Pushers’ Tournament of Roses Parade float decorating, contact the Lutheran Hour Float Committee, PO Box 20044, Riverside CA 92516-0044.