Indiana University researchers recently studied how gratitude affects mental health. They worked with 300 adults, all of whom were struggling with issues related to depression and anxiety. They randomly assigned the people into three groups. All three groups received mental health counseling, but the first group was instructed to write a letter of gratitude to another person each week for three weeks. The second group was instructed to write their deepest thoughts and feelings in a journal. The third group didn’t have a writing assignment.
Weeks later, when everyone checked in again, they discovered that the first group, the ones who had written the gratitude letters, reported significantly better mental health. These results were confirmed by brain MRI scans. The researchers concluded that the simple act of expressing gratitude may help “train the brain to be more sensitive to the experience of gratitude down the line,” which may “contribute to improved mental health over time.”
Gratitude does good things for us. But where does it come from? For the apostle Paul and his coworker, Timothy, writing to Christians living in Colossae, gratitude comes from the Gospel. That is because the Gospel reveals the universe— all things—as a gift from God—an intentional, valuable, and practical gift.
It’s intentional because God had someone specific in mind when He created it. For whom did God create it? We may be quick to say, “For us!” But this is only partly true. In Colossians 1:16, we hear that the gift is “for” Jesus, God’s Son. All things were created through Him and for Him. And like guests at a party, we are invited into that gift (Luke 14:23). And it is a valuable
gift. It cost Jesus His blood, His life (Col 1:20-22). God thought you were worth dying for—you and everyone you meet. Finally, it is a practical gift. It is not a gag gift, but something given for everyday life. God intends to dwell in and with His gift, forever (Col 1:27).
A few years ago, my wife and I attended a ceramics class. We learned how to create pottery on a spinning wheel. It was my first time, and most of my projects fell apart as I was making them. But I did succeed in creating one little bowl. Now, years later, that prized little bowl has a practical place in our home. Its value doesn’t come from its performance or intrinsic qualities. I choose to value it for personal reasons. And I love seeing my family members use it, for small things, like holding spicy mayo for dipping tater tots. It brings me joy, not only because I created and refined it, but also because it is practical. It is part of our life.
This Gospel gives us a grateful way of seeing the world and our place in it. The universe was created to be a gift for God’s Son, Jesus. This gift includes you and me, and everyone we meet. And not for anything we have done or could do, but for personal reasons (for love!), God and His Son treasure this gift. When an enemy had taken it captive in a domain of darkness (Col 1:13), Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice to win it back. Everyone you meet, everything you see, and every place you go was included in that ransom price, because God intends to dwell with us, now by His Spirit, and forever in His fullness, when Jesus returns in glory. Go read Colossians, chapter 1. See what it does for your gratitude. u
Adapted from a message for The Lutheran Hour aired January 8, 2023.
… the Gospel reveals the universe—all things—as a gift from God—an intentional, valuable, and practical gift.
by PAUL SCHREIBER
Coming in March 2023, the Gifted for More Church Campaign will offer congregations an extensive menu of resources to discover, grow, and share the gifts of their members. In partnership with Barna Group, LHM is making these materials available so churches can uncover the abundance of gifts already present in their midst but which often go unrecognized and underutilized.
“Strengths, talents, and abilities,” according to research done by Barna Group in 2022, these personal assets of church members often go by the wayside as simply unnoticed. Consequently, building up the body of Christ and reaching out to others with the Gospel languish, as the possibilities of gift discovery and implementation aren’t even on the radar. The truth is many today “struggle to understand or even see the gifts that they possess,” Barna reports. The good news, however, is that people want to take hold of and develop their gifts!
To help congregations and individuals do this is what the Gifted for More Church Campaign is all about. “We’ve put together a full suite of church resources that will help you build a culture that celebrates, discovers, and unleashes gifts in your church,” said Savannah Kimberlin, Barna Group’s associate vice president of church engagement. “Our hope is that you will get creative and find what works for your church—really commit to the journey.”
The Gifted for More Church Campaign features an extensive five-week sermon series to help churches engage with the
journey of understanding their giftedness. It includes in-depth sermon outlines and accompanying slide sets that highlight key concepts and Scriptures. There’s a five-session small group Bible study with videos and a handy leader’s guide. The curriculum piece has video prompts, discussion questions, Scripture verses, and suggestions for putting concepts into practice.
Also included is the EveryGift™ Inventory, an easy-to-take online assessment of your giftedness in 12 distinct areas, which takes about 20 minutes to complete. When you do, you will take away a sharper awareness of your aptitudes, innate abilities, and acquired skill sets—and your mastery of these items. You can also share the EveryGift Inventory with others, so they too can see what kinds of untapped potential they possess!
And as a way to engage others, both Christian and non-Christian, in the journey of comprehending their own life’s purpose, four “Path to Purpose” videos offer real-life insights from guests who assess their lives, their careers, and their long-range journeys. Hosted by Kimberlin and Dr. Jason Broge, senior director of design and development for LHM, these videos show how life brings us challenges and opportunities to use our gifts for God and others. A leader’s guide gives info on utilizing these videos in a small group context and includes planning details, conversation pointers, video-related questions, and a call to action. All printed materials and slides in the Gifted for More Church Campaign can be easily downloaded and printed for use and distribution.
For those loving to drill down for more data, the Gifted for More Church Campaign offers a three-piece group of Research Resources. A 30-slide PowerPoint presentation (also available as a PDF) gives the viewer an archaeologist’s view of the data underlying what giftedness is and how it can be used to fuller advantage in our churches and relationships. To further clarify these findings, a video presentation hosted by Kimberlin walks through the PowerPoint’s graphics and numbers, highlighting areas where churches can assess their own situation and take advantage of congregants’ gifts that may be
see next page
“Strengths, talents, and abilities,” … these personal assets of church members often go by the wayside as simply unnoticed.
neglected or undetected. Also available is the Gifted for More LHM-Barna monograph; it gives additional details on the research slides and offers commentary from others at Barna Group and LHM.
Though hundreds of hours of work have gone into the Gifted for More Church Campaign, it’s not really about statistics and colorful charts. It’s about living our lives, our specially God-gifted lives, in obedience to Him and in service to others, engaging in the work of His kingdom here on earth. “Giftedness is not a program. It’s an essential, organic dimension of living life as a human being and a Christ follower,” said Kimberlin. It’s vital that churches—especially as people grapple with the relevance of attending church at all—work at creating an in-house infrastructure to
link people and their gifts with chances to exercise those gifts in building up Christ’s body and in serving their communities in missional ways, she added.
Of course, how will church members know about the Gifted for More Church Campaign unless they have been told? To help churches do this, a number of promotional tools are provided: an instructional PDF, an extensive file of social media/email images, ready-made copy to plug onto your images, and a video “sermon bumper” to preface messages based on the Gifted for More sermon series. A short how-to guide is included as well.
Truly understanding our giftedness as God’s people has so many upsides to it. “The first time I heard ‘You are a gift with gifts to share,’ as we brainstormed the Gifted for More data, I knew that was the key,” said Ashley Bayless, director of production for LHM. “The message that you and I are gifts—created by God with purpose—changes the way we see ourselves and how we see other people. Through Scripture and data and stories and discussion, we believe people will walk away with not just that
As part of LHM and Barna Group’s ongoing investigation of giftedness, they’ve produced a special report: Valuing Veterans’ Gifts to the Community. Detailed information was drawn from 662 U.S. military veterans who took the EveryGift™ Inventory online. This data, sifted and analyzed, paints a telling picture: veterans are endowed with unique and vital gifts—all of which can be used in the service of their families, churches, and local communities.
This study group consisted of service members, male and female, from all five branches of the U.S. military, with tenure primarily in the one-tofive-year bracket. This study explored 12 common skills. Among these were technical, interpersonal, financial, critical thinking, artistic, leadership, and communication.
Respondents were asked to identify their “primary” or “top five” gifts. The study then examined veterans’ responses using a computer score that points to a mastery of certain gifts.
“Knowing gifts,
prioritizing gifts and mastering gifts are qualities that hang together,” the study reports, as is one’s intentionality in using them for the common good. Here the veteran’s Christian faith plays a role, especially in recognizing and developing their gifts. This is often most comfortably done relationally through the fellowship of friends, on the job, or with a coach or mentor. “In addition to a vocational leaning into gifts, these faithful veterans may be driven forward by Scriptures (such as Galatians 6; Titus 1, 2 Timothy 1, and 1 Corinthians 12-13) that urge Christ-followers to know and grow in their spiritual gifts,” the report adds. As veterans transition into civilian life there may be challenges and obstacles they face. They return, however, with gifts—gifts to share—that can be
“… we believe people will walk away with not just that clear understanding, but will also know that the gifts they have can be grown and shared.”
clear understanding, but will also know that the gifts they have can be grown and shared. Just thinking about what individuals and churches and communities might unleash when they truly consider their gifts gets me really excited for the future!” she added.
To learn more about the Gifted for More Church Campaign, go to barna.com/gifted-for-morechurch-campaign. To explore other Gifted for More resources LHM has developed with Barna Group, visit lhm.org/gifted
of tremendous benefit to families, neighborhoods, and others in their circle. In truth, the veteran’s civilian contributions form an extension of their formal military service to their country. Jesus’ directive to love others ties in beautifully with veterans using their gifts in His service. “If we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, the gifts we have been given by God are valuable tools in achieving that call. It is by these God-given gifts that He has placed within each of us the resources we need to serve our communities and bring glory and honor to God,” said Tony Cook, vice president of LHM’s Global Ministries.
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Register now for the Lutheran Laymen’s League (LLL) Spring 2023 Virtual Event under the theme of Gifted for More.
New this year, the “event” will consist of two pre-recorded videos that can be watched anytime after March 15. Participants can register individually online or, just like previous LLL events, some LLL districts will choose to host a local in-person event to view the videos together. Check with your local district or visit lhm.org/lll2023 for a list of participating districts and to register.
Join us (virtually or in person) to take a deeper dive into Gifted for More based on research done in partnership with Barna Group. The LLL Spring 2023 Virtual Event will dig deeper into EveryGift and how you can discover, grow, and share your unique gifts.
This new format allows LLL districts to use these video segments for their convention or as a separate opportunity to gather people together. Individuals can register to watch and learn within their households at a time that’s convenient for them. Either way, this is a great opportunity to learn more about this exciting research and how you are a gift from God with gifts to share.
To learn more about this valuable resource, go to lhm.org/veterans There you will find Valuing Veterans’ Gifts to the Community, along with other LHM resources created especially for veterans. u
Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.
The event videos will include:
• Gifted for More presentation, led by Ashley Bayless, director of production for LHM. The presentation will include insights based on the book Discover Your Gifts, interviews with individuals who helped create Gifted for More, and an overview of the new resources available to you and your congregation.
• Speaker of The Lutheran Hour® Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, will lead a devotion, and Jennifer Prophete, LHM’s director of community programming, will share LHM ministry and resource updates.
By registering now, you will automatically receive access to the videos when they are released on March 15. After March 15, you will be able to sign up to access the videos until the registration closes on May 15.
If you would like to host a viewing party at your congregation, contact Polly Gregali at polly.gregali@lhm.org. To learn more and register, go to lhm.org/lll2023 u
Megan McDaniel reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work around the world.
“If we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, the gifts we have been given by God are valuable tools in achieving that call.”
It’s about living our lives … in obedience to Him and in service to others, engaging in the work of His kingdom here on earth.
Many of LHM’s ministry centers provide locally produced radio programming on topics of interest. These programs attract a wide variety of audiences and invite listeners to contact local ministry staff to receive resources that address the topic from a Christian perspective. They are also invited to take a Bible Correspondence Course and connect with a local Christian community.
God continues to bless LHM’s radio broadcasts across Asia so more people can hear the Good News about Jesus. LHM–Thailand started a live radio program called “Women to Women” that airs every Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon on an FM station in Bangkok. The program is designed to reach a variety of listeners but focuses primarily on women and parents in the Bangkok metropolitan area and central Thailand. Each broadcast offers practical suggestions regarding life issues that are of special interest to listeners and incorporates an encouraging Bible-based, Gospel message. Listeners can call in with questions or comments so that LHM–Thailand staff can build ongoing relationships with them.
LHM–Cambodia launched a new live talk show called “The Light of Life” on an FM station in the Siem Reap Province. The program airs three days per week (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The station’s signal covers five provinces in Cambodia to reach a potential audience of around one million people and share the hopeful message of the Gospel with them.
In addition to these new broadcasts, existing programming continues to share God’s Word with people in other countries. “Time of Hope,” a 15-minute program that airs each weekend in the Tamil language, has filled the hearts of thousands of listeners who are often facing hopeless situations in Sri Lanka with hope, peace, and joy. Kumar is a tailor who has continuously listened to LHM–Sri Lanka’s radio programs for several years. He says he never misses a program since the messages and songs are such a blessing to him. One day he called LHM staff to request prayers, saying he had been facing several problems in his life and he needed relief. A staff member asked if they could refer Kumar to a local pastor who could visit him and pray with him. Kumar agreed and connected with the pastor. We pray that Kumar will continue to rely on his faith and that the radio program continues to give him peace. u Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of Lutheran Hour Ministries.
PAUL SCHREIBER
Making your neighborhood the kind of place you want to come home to takes more than wishful thinking.
To help you engage your neighbors in meaningful ways, Love Your Neighbor Workshops from The Hopeful Neighborhood Project™ (HNP) give attendees imaginative, road-tested guidance for their neighborhoods. These quarterly virtual events empower attendees with fresh ideas and hopeful encouragement to spread God’s love and kindness right where they live.
In reality, the kindness shown may be a welcoming handshake, a bowl of homemade soup, or what one hopeful neighbor likes to do: serve cider and donuts. An unexpected invitation, “Come over tomorrow for hot cider and donuts,” was all it took for her neighbors to casually gather, swap stories, learn a few names, and come away knowing they made the right decision to accept.
The woman extending the invitation was inspired by her participation in HNP. Whether it’s insights gained from a Love Your Neighbor Workshop, neighborhood labs, self-paced courses, one-on-one coaching, or from taking the EveryGift™ Inventory, our desire for a better neighborhood can be as effortless as an invite—with a tasty beverage and a treat for all who show up.
Jill, the woman inviting her
neighbors over for cider and donuts, makes what might seem complicated—getting to know our neighbors—something we all can do. “It’s people understanding simple engagement with others in their neighborhoods is the first step to building deeper relationships,” said Jennifer Prophete, director of community programming for LHM.
To learn how other people are bringing their gifts to bear in their own neighborhoods, visit HNP’s blog at hopefulneighborhood.org. Under “Stories,” you will find more than 100 entries from those on the forefront of neighborly engagement. Their stories will inspire your thinking and give you proven, easyto-do examples of what worked for them—and how it’s making a difference where they live.
One place to begin fixing your mind on neighborly pursuits is by taking HNP’s Pledge, too. In doing this, you accept the invitation to discover the gifts your neighborhood has to offer. It’s a great first step to using the resources of The Hopeful Neighborhood Project.
Another way you can keep honing your neighboring skills is to join in on the next Love Your Neighbor Workshop. This online workshop will be held via Zoom on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 6 p.m. CST. Registration is now open at hopefulneighborhood.org. u
God continues to bless LHM’s radio broadcasts across Asia so more people can hear the Good News about Jesus.
Ash Wednesday brings us into the season of Lent. While Lent may not be the longest season in the church year, it certainly is one of the most important. As Christians, it is an opportune time for us to grow in our faith as we think about our relationship with Jesus while His suffering and death come into focus.
One of the most interesting dynamics of this season is that it offers us a time for quiet reflection. The language used in worship is purposefully quieter than normal; for example, the word “alleluia” is not used as an expression of praise during Lent. Worship music is often reflective and subdued. In many churches, crosses and other religious artwork are “veiled”—covered with a transparent cloth throughout the 40 days to mute their brilliance and add to the solemn tone of the season.
These activities serve as
reminders for us to spend time thinking about life, death, faith, relationships, and Jesus during these 40 days. This time spent in personal reflection and prayer before individual or family devotions has special meaning for us throughout Lent. But in today’s fast-paced world, it can sometimes be a challenge to find the proper time and setting for such reflection.
This is why I encourage you to visit lhm.org/lent to check out the Lenten Devotions produced by Lutheran Hour Ministries. This year’s series, Man of Sorrows, People of Joy, is a great resource for personal use, small group Bible studies, or family devotion time to help keep your faith conversations going. These devotions can be customized and printed for sharing with others and introducing them to Jesus— why He became human, what His work was all about, and what He accomplished on our behalf.
Beginning Ash Wednesday, you can also read or listen to each day’s devotion online or receive them as a daily email. A Spanishlanguage series, Morir para dar fruto (Die to Bear Fruit), is also available.
In addition to these longrunning seasonal devotions, LHM is producing another Lenten resource to be available this year during Holy Week. Make plans to join The Lutheran Hour® as it devotionally reflects on the events of Holy Week based on the Gospel of Matthew. With hymns arranged by the Erin Bode Group, this special will contemplate on what Jesus did for us in His journey to the cross. You can listen to this special starting April 3 by going to lutheranhour.org or the platforms where you typically listen to The Lutheran Hour podcast. You can also check the broadcast guide at lutheranhour.org closer to Holy Week to see if the special is airing on a station near you.
While Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday gives us reason to rejoice, it also reminds us that tens of millions of individuals around the world still live without the hope which Jesus made possible. His salvation is available to all … and we want the entire world to hear. Thank you for your continued support of Lutheran Hour Ministries that allows us to share the Good News of the Gospel with people around the world not only during Lent, but throughout the year. u
This year’s Lenten Devotions paint a revealing picture of Jesus as He winds His way to the cross. Using Matthew’s Gospel as its source, we see Jesus as teacher, healer, comforter, and Savior. Our Shepherd’s crucifixion and resurrection now make joy and true life available to His followers—to those who through faith entrust their lives to Him. Access for free at
As Christians, it is an opportune time for us to grow in our faith as we think about our relationship with Jesus while His suffering and death come into focus.
tell the stories, but we spend time talking about the important message of each story, and what they have to say to us
by CHAD FIX
Join LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz and other LHM leaders for the LHM Vision Cruise upon the Mediterranean, Oct. 16-28, 2023. You will see the Bible come alive right before your eyes in places where many momentous events of our faith occurred. Embarking and culminating in Greece with additional stops along the way, this trip offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and the apostle Paul as you tour Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Galilee region, Limassol, Athens, Corinth, and other locations.
In addition to visiting a variety of historic sites, you will have a chance to interact daily with ministry leaders from LHM’s headquarters and meet with various ministry center staff and partners to hear about the innovative ways they are sharing the hope and love of Christ with people in other countries. This experience will allow you to gain a deeper appreciation of God’s Word and a better understanding of how the Holy Spirit is working through LHM to reach people worldwide with the Gospel.
… gain a deeper appreciation of God’s Word and a better understanding of how the Holy Spirit is working through LHM to reach people worldwide with the Gospel.
Participants will travel on the luxurious Azamara Journey cruise ship, which provides an intimate, boutique-style venue featuring modern amenities and furnishings, world-class dining options, spa experiences to relax and refresh, and allnew entertainment offerings. The onboard experience will be matched only by the immersive cultural encounters you will experience on shore. The spectacular sightseeing opportunities and the Christian fellowship with new friends will make this an experience you will never forget.
Learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and reserve your spot today at lhm.org/visioncruise. u
PAK7 is a broadcast and social media ministry that started in 2014 to share God’s love with the nearly 230 million Pakistanis in the south Asia nation of Pakistan and worldwide. Beginning in spring 2021, Lutheran Hour Ministries initiated a partnership with PAK7 to support new television programming as well as the production of videos and social media content.
One of these projects is a children’s program called Bedtime Stories. Pakistan has an estimated 88 million children under 15 years old so there is great opportunity to engage them with Bible truths. There are three ways children can watch television in Pakistan. Most watch national television networks where religious content is not allowed; some have access to uncensored satellite television; and a small but growing number have access to YouTube.
To make sure Bedtime Stories could be viewed and enjoyed by children and families of all faiths, PAK7 created 14 episodes. In half of the episodes, the host shares stories from the Bible which are shown on Christian TV channels. In the other half, the host shares cultural stories alongside Christian moral values that can air on national television networks.
Learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and reserve your spot today at lhm.org/visioncruise
All episodes have beautiful animation, lively songs, and a
puppet co-host named Mintu who asks questions about what the stories mean.
The show’s popularity has led to a second series of seven Bible stories and seven moral values stories. These shows are not just brimming with energy and fun, but they are building strong foundations of faith and values in young children’s lives. Since children are watching at all times of day, the program has been renamed Story Time. “What I love is that we don’t just tell the stories, but we spend time talking about the important message of each story, and what they have to say to us today,” says the program’s host.
In early December, PAK7 CEO Andrew Hart and interim PAK7 U.S. President Curt Young visited LHM’s headquarters to meet with LHM leaders. They heard an overview of LHM’s global ministry efforts and provided updates on the PAK7 outreach that LHM supports.
“It was wonderful hearing stories about people whose hearts and lives have been transformed by God’s love through this partnership,” says LHM Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer Jeff Craig-Meyer. “We are thankful for this ongoing work with PAK7 and look forward to exploring new ways to bring messages of hope and love into people’s lives.” u
“… we don’t just
today.”Photo courtesy of PAK7
Last session, we started with the truth that our identities are established by the reconciling work of Jesus Christ. The Christian life is lived outside/ in, not inside/out. Two kinds of external connections define us as human persons. First, our relationship to God, restored, once and for all, by the reconciling work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Deity is entirely responsible for this reconciliation. The second consists of the reconciling and relational work we are called to carry out with others, in those vocations and locations where we find ourselves. We can say: I am an ambassador of reconciliation. Being reconciled to Christ makes me a reconciler, nurturing relationships that lead others closer to Jesus Christ.
As contrasted with Christ’s reconciling cry from the cross, “It is finished,” this reconciling work with others is never finished. (Neither should we underestimate how exhausting these labors of love, literally, can be!) Whom does this include? Those we adore as well as those we’re indifferent towards. Those we’re related to by genes, by legal ties, or by civic associations, as well as those with whom we share no kinship or fellowship, both the givers and takers, the movers and the shakers, as well as the troublemakers and the heartbreakers
See this Irish poem by Arthur O’Shaughnessy who, though his life was short and difficult, wrote:
We are the music-makers, And we are the dreamers of dreams, Wandering by lone sea-breakers, And sitting by desolate streams; Yet we are the movers and shakers
Of the world for ever it seems.
Jesus goes so far to suggest that we should arrange our lives by intentionally going out of our way to be peacemakers and bridgebuilders prior to being worshippers. There are times when what we do with the alter (the other person) must precede what we do at the altar
Read Matthew 5:22-24. Jesus is challenging us to repurpose our anger. When we are angry, we have an excess of energy.
• Why does Jesus invite us to use that energy in the work of intentionally reconciling with others rather than name-calling (“You fool!”) or retreating into religious rituals (“offering your gift at the altar”)?
• What specific relationships has God given me an opportunity to nurture?
What we are and who we are are precisely the categories that define us as persons The personhood of humans is discovered in the relationships of the WHAT-ness and WHO-ness We have very little to say about our WHAT-ness. That’s determined by the relational circumstances of our birth, our parents, our ancestors, our context, and our community. We can, however, make a substantial impact on our WHO-ness, namely, who we are relationally in Christ. One’s track record of reconciled relationships is definitive of our WHO-ness—not from whom we’ve become estranged, but with whom we’ve restored a relationship. That’s what kind of persons we are Sin, however, seduces us to be turned inward, to focus on our WHAT-ness apart from other relationships. Sin separates us from God, from ourselves, from the creation, and from one another. Sin keeps us from becoming the persons God has destined us to be (WHOness) When we turn away from others and turn toward the false gods of our
WHAT-ness to define our identity, we disobey the First Commandment
Martin Luther observes in his Large Catechism that false gods include “money and property” (p. 6), and even “great learning, power, prestige, family, and honor” (p. 10). For example, our loyalty to our family or tribe can prevent us from being full participants in the human family or in the family of God. Our pursuit of education or employment, if this interferes with or contradicts our primary relationships, can turn positive pursuits into spiritually negative problems. When we are more interested in material things than in other persons, when we are so preoccupied with our accomplishments that we don’t have the capacity to be concerned about others, when we are possessed, as it were, by our possession—this is inconsistent with God’s desire for us Not only that, but these otherwise virtuous pursuits—when they impede worship of God or love for others—can become sinful vices .
• Read Nahum 1:2 and 1:6. What picture do these verses give us about the personality of God regarding false gods?
• God judges us fairly and squarely. God loves us in Christ Jesus overflowingly and immeasurably. How does our awareness of that judgment and of that love motivate us to take action in the lives of others? continued
• Recall 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 from the video. How can these words from Paul give us a less “cultural preoccupation with race”?
• Dr. Nunes references Ephesians 2:14-15. How does Jesus allow us to “check just one box” when it comes to our identity?
Read John 4 (especially focusing on verses 19-26).
Jesus’ relationship with the woman from Samaria is a great example of this intentionality. First, think of the barriers Jesus had to overcome to be in a reconciled relationship with this woman. The Samaritan people were especially despised because they were a hybrid, or mixed, people group. Both their religious practices and their genealogical background was hybridized—part Jewish, part other traditions. They were outcasts. The irony is that Jesus makes Samaritans the heroes in many of His parables, such as the leper who returned to give thanks (see Luke 17:11-19) and the stranger who helped the stranded, beaten traveler (see Luke 10:25-37).
Five times married. The Samaritan woman whom Jesus meets, therefore, has many factors working against her, for example: her gender, ethnicity, moral reputation, and religion. Oftentimes, the “other” with whom we have the greatest difficulty is the one who is a proximate other—enough like us to be similar, but not enough like us to be the same
• What were the practical steps that led to reconciliation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman?
• As we ponder reconciliation in our U.S. context—where the fastest growing ethnic group is “mixed”—how might this story apply to us?
Reconciliation is a spiritual process that can be applied to many aspects of our personal life and closest relationships. A primary covenantal community into which God has called us is marriage. That so many marriages struggle provides us with another example of the sin we’re in. Reconciliation, not separation, is the goal of marital relationships (see 1 Corinthians 7:11). Divorce, while sometimes a tragic necessity, is not God’s design. We are not called to rupture but called to peace (see 1 Corinthians 7:15).
Clothed in righteousness and fed with the Father’s forgiveness, reconciled ones extend a hand with candor; we speak “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15b) to our sisters and brothers of every race and in every place. One of the principles of Martin Luther King’s vision of the civil rights movement in the mid-twentieth century was known as the “beloved community”—a civic association grounded in brotherly and sisterly love. Of course, only those who confess by faith the saving grace of God in Jesus are able to fully realize such love. Yet, this goal may apply also to our time. It is good for the functioning of society that all people seek reconciliation with the other and not the overthrowing or the conquering of the other
In the current social and political environment in the U.S. and in much of the world, we are challenged by aggressive partisan, highly vocal, and divisive forces. These often do not have reconciliation as their goal. Instead, their aim is winning, of getting and keeping power. While Christians should be diligent in putting their faith into action in the civic realm, our tone is always predisposed toward reconciliation and making peace.
• What does John the evangelist and apostle say is the power source of that reconciling love? (See 1 John 4:10-11.)
• An important word in understanding this is “propitiation” (1 John 4:10b) or in the Greek, “hilasmos.” What might be some synonyms for this concept?
• Considering the place where I live, in what ways am I called to participate in building “a beloved community”?
Only what God has done for us in Jesus Christ can deliver the reality of reconciliation to our lives. We tend to hold on to our grudges, our wounds, our animosities. What Jesus does on the cross makes enemies into friends, outsiders into insiders, strangers into sisters and brothers. If it were left to us and our ability to love others, we would utterly fail. We, who are deeply loved by God our Father, are called and sent by the Spirit to be builders of a beloved community According to our vocation and location in life, we turn from our anger, and we turn toward our neighbor. No matter what circumstances we have come from, as Christians, this is who we are.
Father, by the death and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus the Christ, You have made us instruments of Your peace. Now by the power of the Spirit, help us to embrace this reconciling identity in Your Name. Amen.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Lutheran Hour Ministries has been sharing the hope of Jesus for more than 100 years, positively impacting millions of lives around the world every day
But now, more than ever, the world needs the Gospel! Did you know there are more than three billion people worldwide who have not yet heard the saving message of Christ? That means billions of fathers, mothers, children, grandchildren, and friends from all walks of life have not yet experienced the transformative love of our Savior. Many of these people, especially those living in other countries, have had little or no opportunity to hear about the love of God in Jesus Christ. We must act now to bring the hope of Jesus to those who don’t yet know Him.
At LHM, we are uniquely poised to grow the body of Christ by reaching beyond those areas where He is already known Our unique global ministry model uses ministry centers that are operated by local staff and volunteers who have a passion for the Gospel and a willingness to proclaim it throughout their communities. These ministry centers across five global regions reach into more than 60 nations
with programming that is contextually appropriate because it is developed locally to ensure maximum impact and accuracy of the Gospel message .
As we navigate a shifting world culture, we know the saving message of Christ does not change, but the way we share it does Guided by your passion to make His Name known, we continually keep our eyes on the future and challenge ourselves to build capacity that takes advantage of new opportunities to broaden the reach of the Gospel. This life-changing work would not be possible without your prayers, involvement, and financial support. I invite you to explore this year’s ministry impact report to see just a few ways God is working through you to help individuals worldwide find hope, comfort, and relief in the Gospel. I hope you are humbled to see . . how together . . we are making a difference in the lives of the lost and hurting.
Your Partner in HIS Mission,
Kurt Buchholz President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries
LHM’s culturally relevant programs share the Gospel with people worldwide more than 163 million times each week This year we celebrated two milestone anniversaries: 75 years in Brazil and 70 years in India
We thank God for the wonderful things He has done through these ministries
Increased mass media opportunities led to new radio broadcasts in Thailand, Cambodia, and Ghana Locally produced broadcasts like these on topics of interest attract a variety of audiences and invite listeners to contact the local ministry center to receive resources that address the topic from a Christian perspective. Listeners also have opportunities to take a Bible Correspondence Course and connect with a local Christian community
LHM–Latvia launched a video podcast called Under Four . In Latvia, it is common for people to say, “Let’s talk under four,” when referring to a private conversation under the four eyes of two people . Each podcast allows the host to talk with a guest about God working in our daily lives, and how we can apply the Christian faith to daily life. Satellite television broadcasts continue shining the light of Christ throughout the Middle East and North Africa . The third season of the Arabic talk show, New Light, produced in partnership with SAT-7 allows three co-hosts to introduce a relevant topic for each program New segments are designed to capture the attention of viewers, including updates such as youth guests in the studio, outdoor interviews, a spiritual message, and pre-recorded inspirational success stories.
Holistic outreach is an effective way of demonstrating to people the love of Christ. These programs have a comprehensive impact in reaching both body and soul as a ministry to the unchurched in word and deed where both
Following are some ways in which LHM was abundantly blessed by God during the last year thanks to your generous support.
physical and spiritual needs are addressed
In Mongolia, staff implemented Financial Alphabet Training to provide financial education to both Christian and nonChristian families, youth, and single parents to teach them how to manage their finances wisely and sustainably while hearing about the Gospel through the training modules In Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, and Liberia, our successful holistic programs continue to reach at-risk young adults, especially women, through medical camps, prison ministry, vocational training, and spiritual guidance and fellowship .
Many ministry centers, especially those in Latin America, continue to use Project JOEL in offering biblically based guidance to youth in making healthy lifestyle choices In Panama, staff and volunteers implemented a presentation called “Dream and Fly,” where sixth-grade students at three schools learned about emotions, values, physical development, and goals from a biblical perspective.
The fourth year of the successful Gospel Adventures™ program visited the African country of Zambia
Just like previous adventures, Zambia Bound offered elementary and middle school students a five-day curriculum, videos, interactive website, theme music, and more, all under an overarching biblical theme More than 1,000 teachers, parents, and individuals registered for Gospel Adventures: Zambia Bound—giving more than 40,000 students a firsthand look at spotting God’s goodness through an introduction to children living in another country who carry their faith with them through day-to-day life
Our new CPTLN app (Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones) continues a “by Hispanics for Hispanics” approach to connect with growing Hispanic audiences in the most culturally effective way. The app serves as a mobile hub for all LHM Spanish resources, including sermons, sermon notes, daily devotions, booklets, Bible studies, reflections, Vivenciar.net, a Bible app, and a chat function.
Vivenciar.net continues to be an instrumental digital platform for LHM to reach Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking individuals worldwide, including an expanded focus on connecting with Hispanics living in the United States More people than ever are searching online for guidance on topics like stress, anxiety, depression, fear, guilt, toxic relationships, and other relevant issues. Vivenciar. net assists these individuals through live chats, blog posts, articles, e-books, and courses. It also offers a safe space where trained volunteers can listen to what people have to say about specific situations in their lives and accompany them in these moments with biblically based support and guidance .
Now in its 90th broadcast season, The Lutheran Hour ® continues to proclaim the Gospel on more than 1,800 traditional radio stations throughout North America each week and features a variety of program elements to complement the
sermon. These include interviews with expert guests, details about new LHM ministry endeavors, deeper discussions about the message, and occasional music selections. The broadcast is also available online, as a podcast, and on new media platforms such as Amazon Alexa, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and Sirius XM satellite radio .
“How Long …” was developed as a 2022 Christmas radio special from The Lutheran Hour . Hosted by Speaker Rev Dr Michael Zeigler, this original presentation featured fresh and lively arrangements of Christmas carols by internationally known vocalist Erin Bode that accompanied a story written by Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, LHM’s senior director of design and development
The contemporary story illuminated an ancient set of poems inspired by the Old Testament book of Isaiah . They are called the “O Antiphons” and are the basis of the well-known Christmas hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” In addition to being available online, the hour-long special aired on 179 stations the week of Christmas (including the entire Bott Radio Network).
In 2018, LHM embarked in a partnership with Barna Group—an industry leader for research-based insights about faith and culture, leadership and vocation, and generational groups—for a critical study of faith in America. Two new lay-level resources, Discover Your Gifts: Celebrating How God Made You and Everyone You Know and Discover Your Gifts Workbook: Twelve Sessions for Exploring Your God-Given Purpose, were published this year based on the newest research topic of Gifted for More . LHM also released Digital Research Kits designed for church leaders covering each yearly topic: Spiritual Conversations in the Digital Age, Households of Faith, Better Together, and Gifted for More Each kit includes a digital copy of a monograph, slide deck, links to video presentations, and a discussion guide. Various aspects of the research findings and their application served as the foundation for presentations given by LHM staff at events across the United States in 2022 These included the LCMS Youth Gathering, Best Practices for Ministry, Best Practices for Ministry: Heartland Conference, LCMS Hispanic National Convention, Lutheran Education Association Convocation, Q Ideas Culture Summit, and many others. The Hopeful Neighborhood Project™ (HNP) led a collaborative group of more than 50 community leaders, faith leaders, and writers who are dedicated to finding ways for people to become more engaged neighbors through its participation in the annual National Good Neighbor Day. The group shared the theme “Start with Hello” to encourage others to get
to know their neighbors and build hopeful neighborhoods right where they live In addition, HNP joined the University of Missouri Extension Council’s Engaged Neighbor Program as co-sponsors for the newly created Missouri Good Neighbor Week celebration. The week was a tremendous success, with 12,594 Acts of Neighboring registered; 119 Engaged Neighbors nominated for a state-wide award; 295,812 social media views; and 40,765 visits to the campaign web pages. God has called all laypeople to be powerful witnesses for Christ with their families and communities. LHM produced several new resources in 2022 as convenient ways for you to connect with Jesus and share your faith with others . As part of the popular Project Connect booklet ministry, a new Journey Through series speaks to relevant topics touching the lives of family members and friends Our Nurturing Your Faith Bible studies now include all four sessions of Life Together by Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer, the first of four parts Identity by Rev. Dr. John Nunes, and a single-session study titled God in Worship by Rev. Dr. Jason Broge. LHM Learn’s online course library grew with the addition of two mini-courses, 5 Ways to Talk About Faith with Your Child and 5 Ways to Engage Scripture with Your Child.
Bringing Christ to the Nations®— and the Nations to the Church through
225,000 + Engaged Constituents
Times LHM Reaches People with the Gospel Globally Each Week
290 Staff Members
163 million+
60+ Countries Reached by Ministry
Annual Responses to Outreach Efforts
1,286,127
Annual Referrals to Churches and Christian Communities
Times Individuals Were Equipped Last Year to Share Their Faith More Effectively
New Bible Correspondence Course Students Enrolled Around the World Last Year
Number of People Completing Their First Bible Correspondence Course Last Year
118,261
182,175
51,713
33,367
North American Stations Airing The Lutheran Hour®
1,800+
21,178 People Connected with Christian Communities Annually
Consolidating Statement of Activities (in thousands)
Year ended May 31, 2022, with comparative totals for 2021
LHM Board of Directors (As of January 2023)
Chairman Kurt Senske
Austin, Texas
Vice Chairman
Gene Partlow
Williamsburg, Virginia Directors
Linda Arnold Oswego, Illinois
Eric Brown Adel, Iowa
Jim Dankenbring St. Louis, Missouri
Kirk Farney Hinsdale, Illinois
Vincent W. James Boston, Massachusetts
Jonathan Laabs
Roselle, Illinois
Secretary
Patricia Ross
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Treasurer
Melanie Braun
Tempe, Arizona
Kristi Matus Boxford, Massachusetts
Virginia Miller
Rochester, Minnesota
Rev. Tom Pfotenhauer
Pastoral Advisor Woodbury, Minnesota
Edith Schoepp
Onoway, Alberta, Canada
Donald Scifres Greenwood, Indiana
Gordon D. Tresch Williamsville, New York
The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation (As of January 2023)
Officers
Phil Daniels Chairman Tampa, Florida
David Leege
Vice Chairman
Alexandria, Virginia
Jeffrey Craig-Meyer President St. Louis, Missouri
Trustees
Kurt Buchholz
LHM President & CEO
Grant, Minnesota
Thomas Dankenbring
St. Louis, Missouri
Mercedes Hendricks
Laguna Hills, California
Scott Homan St. Louis, Missouri
David Lanius Treasurer
St. Louis, Missouri
Lois Engfehr Assistant Secretary Collinsville, Illinois
Lutheran Hour Ministries is the registered d/b/a name for the International Lutheran Laymen’s League. A copy of the full audit report is available online at lhm.org/report.
The LHM Board of Directors and The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation want to thank you for being part of the LHM family in 2022. The work that we are blessed to do is only possible because of God’s grace and the tens of thousands of passionate lay members and volunteers who partner with this ministry every day. Please continue to remember us in your prayers as we work to discern and follow the Lord’s guidance for LHM.
Heidi Hove Stillwater, Minnesota
Vincent W. James Board of Directors Representative Boston, Massachusetts
Jack Kidwell Bay City, Michigan
Aaron Pawlitz St. Louis, Missouri
Lloyd Probasco
Grand Island, Nebraska
Kurt Senske Int’l LLL Chairman of the Board
Austin, Texas
Every year at this time, I find myself looking back on the year we have just completed. As a global ministry focused on sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a world in need, the results are outstanding! Through the grace of God, Lutheran Hour Ministries is sharing the Gospel with people more than 163 million times each week. Last year alone, nearly 1.3 million of those people responded to our staff as they learned more about the faith that the Holy Spirit planted in their hearts through LHM programs. In addition, nearly 120,000 were referred to local churches or Christian communities.
Our LHM team is overflowing with talent, experience, and passion for telling others about the love of Jesus. And as a partner in our work, you are a critical member of our LHM family as well. Your prayers and generous support are making a difference in the lives of tens of thousands of individuals today.
That in and of itself is more than I could ask for, but there is even more for which I am thankful. The joy is not just in looking backwards; there is immense joy in looking forward, too.
This great team is needed because we continue to have a great challenge before us—a challenge that I know you see as well. In addition to billions of people who have not yet heard about the transformative love of our Savior, study after study shows that many churches have not celebrated an adult Baptism in years, most non-Christians do not even know a Christian personally, and many who have grown up in the church no longer see the point. Many Christians are also more interested in staying in their comfort zones than walking through the doors that the Holy Spirit opens.
As great as the work that you are doing through LHM is, I can’t help but see the
Bible Correspondence Courses (BCC) are a vital part of sharing the Gospel for many LHM ministry centers around the world. These Biblebased studies enable people of all ages, faiths, and educational levels to explore the Bible’s teachings and the Christian faith, often from the security and comfort of their own homes.
Ministry staff present BCC content according to the needs and characteristics of their local cultures and typically offer multiple courses under a variety of titles. Over the past year, more than 50,000 people registered to participate in LHM’s BCCs and around 33,000 internationally completed their first course.
The ease of use for people of all ages was appealing to a Ghana man. More than 20 years ago, Alexander took part in the BCC program hosted by LHM–Ghana. He did not know much about the Bible then, but the lessons and his ongoing communication with staff members helped him understand the Word of God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Alexander became a Christian. Now Alexander is the headmaster at a local school and an elder at his church. A short time ago, he got back in touch with LHM–Ghana staff to ask about bringing the BCC program to his school. He is thankful that LHM–Ghana made their materials available to the children since he knows many of them are eager to learn more about Christianity. He recently shared that 152 students at his school have already graduated from the BCC program this year. u
unharvested fields and asking, “What more is God calling us to do?” We are praying and talking about just that thing here every day, and I boldly ask that you join us in that prayer. We can simultaneously celebrate what God has done today while challenging ourselves as to how much greater our impact can be. Pray that all of us may feel a genuine discomfort in the status quo, that a message of such importance should not be bounded but released.
What impresses me most is that when we vision a greater impact in the future through this worldwide ministry, a future that doesn’t just add to those numbers but multiplies them, our LHM team doesn’t flinch. I can assure you they are ready to go.
While we know there is much work yet to be done, we are blessed to be on this journey of a growing Gospel movement with you! May God richly bless our partnership in ministry throughout the coming year. u
by PAUL SCHREIBER
Siblings Gerard and Janine Bolling are back as hosts for The (Im)partial Church podcast, which launched its second season Feb. 6. This year’s ten episodes will expand on season one’s perceptive exchanges on living out our Christian faith in meaningful and engaging ways. As ministry leaders, educators, and church workers, the Bollings will address relational issues ranging from racial diversity and inclusion to engaging in cross-cultural conversations and community building.
Helping the Bollings in season two will be subject-area experts who speak to various issues. Also in the mix will be relevant findings from Barna Group—the research powerhouse that has partnered with LHM in creating several ministry resources in the last few years. While there will be personal stories from the Bollings’ life and ministry, there will also be data from a Barna study called Beyond Diversity on racial dynamics, which features expert interviews, wide input from focus groups, and two large surveys.
Barna researcher Brooke Hempell noted there’s a cultural narrative, sometimes prominent inside the church, that says we’ve gotten past civil rights issues and that to continue to drill down
on these things is to be overly divisive and not loving. She said the research “discovered that’s completely not the case. In fact, the more that we forget the past or forget to look at the past, the more hurt begins to fester.” She added that it’s vital to contemplate our history, to examine our hearts, and to work toward reconciliation.
Season two will follow this direction.
“What I hope to take away from this season is just really understanding … the character of God—who we think God is, and who God shows us who He actually is,” Professor Janine Bolling said. To that, Dr. Gerard Bolling added, “I’m also excited to take some of our old vocabulary … and then apply it over and against this topic … the SOS that we’ve learned in Sunday school: how God sees our sin, but He also shows our Savior.”
Throughout season two, these ideas will be carried forward. As the Bollings navigate The (Im)partial Church through turbulent cultural and societal issues, they show us that hope is on the horizon. With the characteristic love of Christ that flavors their conversations with humor and grace, they help us see that in Jesus, though the work may be hard, greater reconciliation is possible. Visit lhm.org/podcasts to listen. u
Eligible Thrivent members have until March 31, 2023, to direct any remaining 2022 Choice Dollars. Help us share the Gospel around the world by directing your available Choice Dollars to LHM today!
by CHAD FIX
The following individuals are this year’s candidates for open positions on the Int’l LLL Board of Directors in compliance with Article III of the current Bylaws. Contributing members of the ministry who register with Lutheran Hour Ministries’ headquarters by March 15 will be able to vote in the 2023 election if they are also members of a congregation of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod or Lutheran Church–Canada.
Eligible members can register at lhm.org/voter by entering the unique ID and PIN found on the postcard received in February If you are not able to go online, you may place this postcard in an envelope and mail it back to LHM at 660 Mason Ridge Center Dr , St Louis MO 63141 . Individuals returning the postcard in an envelope postmarked by March 15 will receive a paper ballot .
The election runs from April 15 through May 15. To be counted, online and paper ballots must be received by the chosen tabulation firm no later than May 15. Results will be reported this summer in The Lutheran Layman
Learn more at lhm.org/choice
Abraham has served increasingly senior positions for Environment and Climate Change Canada, a federal department for the Canadian government, since 2002 He currently is chief engineer for electricity policy, managing a team of more than 20 engineers and focusing on the generation of electricity through engaging with stakeholders, developing policy, and promoting and administering regulations. He has received numerous employment awards for his contributions to various regulations and program development. As a trained chemical engineer, he has an extensive background in program design, policy governance, communications, and strategic thinking. Abraham has held several volunteer positions at his home congregations, including Sunday school teacher, trustee/secretary, and member of the church council.
Bredow serves as assistant vice president for K12 educational development at Grand Canyon University (GCU) following 15 years with Lutheran secondary schools in Colorado and Wisconsin as a teacher/basketball coach, admissions director, and marketing director. He consults with districts, schools, and organizations nationwide on promotion strategies, enhanced branding and marketing considerations, and innovative funding models to grow Christian education. A graduate of Concordia University, Nebraska, he holds a master’s degree in marketing (specializing in entrepreneurship) from the University of Colorado at Denver and a doctorate degree in education/organizational leadership from GCU. A lifelong LCMS member, Bredow is actively involved at his church through adult Bible class leadership and youth studies/retreats.
Dankenbring is a partner in the law firm Spencer Fane LLP, representing businesses in mergers and acquisitions, securities matters, contract negotiations, and executive compensation. He was previously a certified public accountant with Ernst & Young. Dankenbring led his congregation’s capital campaign and has served or chaired numerous non-profit boards like Lutheran Senior Services, Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis, The Foundation for Called Workers, and Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation. A current LHM Board member, he and his wife co-chaired LHM’s SENT Initiative. His many distinctions include The Best Lawyers in America® (2012-2023) and Best Lawyers® Lawyer of the Year in Corporate Compliance Law (2017), and Corporate Governance Law (2022) .
Johnson has been an attorney/partner in a Chicago law firm since 1980 and her practice focuses on real estate transactions and development projects. Her extensive list of professional honors includes Illinois Super Lawyers, Illinois Leading Lawyers Network—Real Estate, and induction into the Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. Johnson volunteers in many capacities at her home church and has provided leadership on the boards for dozens of nonprofit organizations and industry groups, including Concordia Theological Seminary, Lutheran Church Extension Fund, Lutheran Housing Support Corporation, and Commercial Real Estate Executive Women of Chicago. She holds Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting degrees from the University of Iowa .
of Rochester, Minnesota
Miller is professor emerita of surgery/ physiology at the Mayo Clinic after retiring as director of the Women’s Health Research Center Her research focused on women’s conditions and was published more than 250 times. Her congregational service includes stewardship and chair of mission outreach An LHM Board member, she served two terms as board chair for AbleLight (formerly Bethesda Lutheran Communities), held positions on numerous other councils, grant review panels, and editorial boards, and received several honors for visionary leadership and research. Miller earned a B.S. in education from Slippery Rock University, a Ph D from the University of Missouri, and an MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson Executive School of Management
Scott has served as chief executive officer/ executive director of Lutheran High School of Orange County since 2020, following four years as head of school at Concordia International School in Shanghai, China She previously spent more than 30 years at Concordia University (Irvine, California) in increasingly responsible positions, completing her tenure there as provost and executive vice president A commissioned minister of religion in the LCMS, her extensive volunteer service includes six years chairing the LCMS Chief Academic Officers Association. She holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Concordia University Chicago, a master’s degree in athletic administration from Adelphi University, and a doctorate in education (institutional management) from Pepperdine University.
(listed in alphabetical order; vote for four)
Congregation: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church
Location:
Indianola, Iowa
Congregation size: About 125 people each weekend
Contact person:
Pastor Tom Vanderbilt
How does your congregation support LHM?
Every year we choose five ministries to receive one percent of our offerings as a way for our congregation to practice charitable giving. LHM has been a recipient of those offerings frequently.
What was the motivation behind supporting Lutheran Hour Ministries?
The international presence of LHM and its work in sharing the Gospel using local partners throughout the world is a wonderful model for missions. We’ve also appreciated some of the pamphlets, Bible studies, and other materials produced for us to use in our congregation.
What has been your members’ feedback?
What do your members like about LHM?
Our members are proud to continue the legacy of Lutheran Hour Ministries. We’re excited to see how this mission has grown from a radio program to a worldwide mission outreach, and we can’t wait to see what happens next.
If your congregation would like to learn more about how you can support LHM’s mission, contact Robin Forsythe at 314-317-4152 or robin.forsythe@lhm.org If you would like to make a gift of support, visit lhm.org/give u
by MEGAN
LHM’s Daily Devotions are a great way to help strengthen your faith journey. Available through a variety of platforms, our devotions can be read or heard online at lhm.org/dailydevotions, delivered right to your inbox, accessed on our FREE mobile app, or listened to as a podcast with Spotify, iHeart Radio, Alexa, or Google Home. In addition, seasonal devotions for Advent and Lent are available in both English and Spanish and are perfect for personal reflection or to share with family, friends, and congregations. These seasonal meditations will help prepare you to celebrate the true meaning of these seasons.
Darlene Lind of Bemidji, Minnesota, remembers listening to The Lutheran Hour® with her parents and family many years ago. One day at church, around 12 years ago, one of Darlene’s friends told her about LHM’s Daily Devotions and where to find them online. She immediately signed up to start receiving the devotions via email and has been faithfully listening to them every day.
About six years ago, Darlene realized that one of her best friends, Darlene Peterson, didn’t have access to a computer to receive the devotions, so she thought of a way that she could share them with her. Every day around 9 a.m., Darlene calls her friend. “I turn up the
volume on my computer and put my phone right there, and we listen to the devotions together.” After listening to the devotion, they discuss their thoughts on the message. “If we miss a day, we’ll do two devotions the next day,” she says. “The speakers are all great, and I like having a short sermon with a prayer every day. We are both aged widows, and we feel these devotions really strengthen our faith and friendship. We appreciate all of the messages.”
Judy Heitmann of Oregon, Wisconsin, shared with LHM how grateful she is for our Daily Devotions, especially the Advent Devotions. She shared that the devotions are “inspiring, helpful, and easy to understand.” Judy taught in Lutheran education for almost 50 years. Now retired, she stays involved by teaching Sunday school at her church. Judy used parts of the 2022 Advent devotions series, A Son is Given, to present the Christmas story to some of her students. She made plans to continue using the LHM devotions through Epiphany. Judy is thankful to Dr. Kari Vo, LHM’s theological writer, for the “wonderful daily devotions.”
To sign up for our Daily Devotions via email, visit lhm.org/newsroom. The Daily Devotions mobile app is available for Apple, Google, and Kindle devices. u
MCDANIEL
“I turn up the volume on my computer and put my phone right there, and we listen to the devotions together.”
MCDANIELPhoto from Pastor Tom Vanderbilt
Our members are proud to continue the legacy of Lutheran Hour Ministries.
by PAUL SCHREIBER
Man of Sorrows, People of Joy, by Dr. Kari Vo, is 2023’s Lenten devotion. Using Matthew’s Gospel, Vo shines light on the Savior’s gritty, day-to-day earthly ministry and points us to the cross where Jesus gave His all for you and me. This is what makes the season of Lent highly introspective for many. It’s a perfect time to consider the depth of our sin and the grace God offers us in Jesus.
It’s also an excellent time to introduce others to the Person of Jesus—why He became human, what His work was all about, and what He accomplished on our behalf. Available in English, Spanish, French, and other languages, LHM’s Lenten Devotions are an ideal resource to share with others. They can be read and listened to anywhere, used by small groups as a devotional for their Bible study, or even—by considering a few days at a time—as a Bible study.
However you use them, you’ll find them rewarding. Just ask this long-time pastor who writes, “I am a retired Lutheran pastor and I’ve read and meditated on many devotions in my 74 years, but I’ve never had the joy of reading anyone like Dr. Kari Vo. She writes with compassion and grace, and
by CHAD FIX
does a wonderful job of connecting and revealing God’s love to a broken people and world today.”
This year’s Spanish Lenten devotions are written by five different Hispanic authors. Morir para dar fruto (Die to Bear Fruit) is the joint work of Ms. Melissa Salomon, Mrs. Abigail Ramirez, Deaconess Rosy Martinez, Dr. Leopoldo Sánchez, and Rev. Héctor Hoppe. As with LHM’s Advent devotions in Spanish, these brief meditations continue to resonate with and inspire Spanishspeaking people.
From Jerez, Mexico, we heard this: “Deeply thankful for these devotionals. They are an outstanding means for us to keep connecting with those with whom we’ve been sharing the Gospel.” From our neighbors to the north, we heard this from Montreal, Canada: “There are many people in our neighborhood, Parc-Extension, who speak Spanish now. Right now, there are two to ten who come to our service on Sundays. They want to give copies to their neighbors, too.”
Ash Wednesday, February 22, 2023, is the day that Man of Sorrows, People of Joy, lhm.org/lent, and Morir para dar fruto, paraelcamino. com/cuaresma, can be accessed online and received as a daily email. Both devotionals can be downloaded and printed for personal or group use as well. u
With Thrivent Choice, you can support the causes you care about to change lives by recommending where some of Thrivent’s charitable outreach funds go. Since the program’s inception in 2010, eligible Thrivent members have used this program to direct more than $520 million to churches and nonprofit organizations nationwide. The program has been a great blessing for Lutheran Hour Ministries, bringing in nearly $1.6 million to help share Christ’s message of hope with a hurting world.
If you still have Choice Dollars available from 2022, the deadline to designate those funds is March 31, 2023. Please consider using those blessings to take part in God’s mission to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ worldwide through LHM. Thank you for sharing the hopeful Gospel message through Thrivent Choice!
Supporting LHM through Thrivent Choice is easy. Simply go to thrivent.com/thriventchoice and search under “Lutheran Hour Ministries” or “LHM”. Or call Thrivent at 1-800-847-4836. Eligibility in the program for Thrivent members is based on insurance premiums and contract values. You can find a complete list of eligibility requirements at the Thrivent Choice web page.
Please remember that you must go through the gift direction process every time you receive notification that Choice Dollars are available. Recurring direction of Choice Dollars to organizations is no longer offered by Thrivent. u
Mobile, audio, reduced-ink options, and Spanish also available!by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Laza enrolled in LHM–Madagascar’s Bible Correspondence Courses and is continuing to grow closer to Jesus.
Kouy is 21 years old and volunteers for the LHM–Laos Gospel music singing group . She comes from a non-Christian religious background and learned about Jesus from LHM–Laos volunteers while she was in college Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Kouy became a Christian. She joined the Gospel music group a couple of years ago and won an award in 2020 Now she is a part of a worship team at a local church
Laza is 38 years old and is the president of the men’s department at a local Lutheran church where his wife is a teacher He comes from an area of Madagascar that is known for its locally made alcohol . There, people drink the alcohol often and Laza ended up becoming addicted Two years ago, Laza had to undergo surgery and was in the hospital for 40 days During his time in the hospital, Laza thought about his alcohol addiction and his spiritual life. When he went home, he challenged himself to live for Jesus and no longer drink alcohol. He enrolled in LHM–Madagascar’s Bible Correspondence Courses and connected with their evangelism program. He attended the ministry’s film showings and volunteered to help them set up the equipment. After seeing how his addiction had impacted his family, Laza decided he wanted to be a comfort for others who were going through challenging times. Laza is continuing to grow closer to Jesus as he grows in his faith
Paola shares the Gospel message with those around her.
Ekaterina recently started the Foundations of the Christian Faith Bible Correspondence Course (BCC) hosted by LHM–Russia She shared that the schedule was very convenient for her, allowing her to attend all the classes. She started the lessons with questions about Christianity and was incredibly happy when she received answers She enjoyed reading the booklets that elaborated on the information she was learning Ekaterina is thankful for the BCC lessons and looks forward to learning more about Jesus.
Paola has known about LHM–Paraguay for many years since her parents were first connected to them when they were going through a difficult time in their marriage. Now Paola has two small children and lives in an area with a lot of children and no established churches . Paola wanted her children to have access to Christian activities, so she reached out to LHM–Paraguay staff to begin organizing ministry programs for children She wants her children and their friends to have the same opportunities that she had to experience God’s love. Paola serves as an LHM–Paraguay volunteer to share the Gospel message with those around her .
Ekaterina looks forward to learning more about Jesus.Kouy learned about Jesus from LHM–Laos volunteers.
Individuals
are reached
Elisabeth is 80 years old and has trouble reading her Bible every day Someone at her church mentioned LHM–Indonesia’s audio Bible program, and Elisabeth knew she wanted one She ordered an audio Bible and was so excited when it arrived Even though her body is getting weaker, she strengthens her faith by listening to the Word of God every day She is thankful for LHM’s resources that make the Gospel available for everyone to hear
Elisabeth strengthens her faith by listening to the Word of God every day.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Grace’s faith was renewed.
Grace used to go to church several years ago She had friends that engaged in prostitution and saw how they always had money and looked successful, so she turned to prostitution because she wanted to get out of poverty . She felt unworthy to attend church services because of her new job, so she quit going At first, she felt like she was achieving her financial goals, but then she got sick Her friends abandoned her, so she turned to LHM–Kenya staff for assistance She joined a monthly fellowship and began listening to the Word of God . Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Grace’s faith was renewed . She is currently learning how to make soap so she can sell it and provide for herself financially.
Elias is working on growing in his faith.
Elias is 28 years old and lives with anxiety and lacks confidence in himself. He practices a non-Christian religion but has a lot of questions about religion He connected with LHM staff in the Middle East and North Africa through a Facebook account they run and sent staff members a private message The staff shared the Gospel message with him, and Elias felt comforted in the Word of God They messaged back and forth several times over the course of a few weeks Through the power of God’s Word, Elias became a Christian. He continues to message the LHM staff and is working on growing in his faith u
Last year, an LHM–Argentina volunteer visited Jonathan and Carla and gave them some booklets Over time, Jonathan and Carla became friends with the volunteer and they went to some LHM–Argentina events with him . Recently the volunteer shared that through the power of the Holy Spirit, Jonathan and Carla became Christians. They are now members at a local church . We are thankful for the staff and volunteers who share the Gospel message with those who need to hear it
Jonathan and Carla are now members at a local church.
around the world
more than 163 million times each week with the Gospel through Lutheran Hour Ministries’ culturally relevant programs and resources. Below are just a few examples to show how God has been using LHM recently to change lives around the world with His Good News .
In keeping with its “Never on Sunday” tradition followed since 1893, the 134th Tournament of Roses Parade was held on Monday, January 2, 2023, in Pasadena, California, under the theme of “Turning the Corner.”
The only Christian float in the parade, Lutheran Hour Ministries participated for the 72nd time with a float entry titled, “A New Day with Jesus.” The LHM float, as well as seven others, was decorated by around 4,000 Petal Pushers volunteers who travel from all over the country to gather in Pasadena each December. These volunteers spent eight-hour shifts attaching thousands of roses, carnations, lilies, mums, and other flowers, as well as other natural materials such as seeds, coffee beans, and leaves, to create the majestic beauty and splendor of the floats.
“This is now my fifteenth year participating,” says Karen Kolke of Albuquerque, New Mexico. “It is enjoyable meeting the other volunteers from across the country and developing friendships with them. While we may only see each other once a year, I always look forward to being with my ‘float family’ and hearing their stories.”
“My niece was going to come out and volunteer, so I decided to follow her,” says Nora Wilson from Dallas, Texas. “I’m originally from New Orleans and was interested in seeing how these floats compared with the ones in the Mardi Gras parade. I have loved meeting people from across the country and seeing the tremendous camaraderie among the volunteers.”
Working on a variety of floats allows volunteers to work side by side with people from diverse backgrounds, believers and nonbelievers alike, offering an opportunity to make new friends, network, and share expressions of the faith that gives true meaning to the
experience. “It touches my heart to see God touching the lives of people,” says Lisa Perr of Brea, California. “There’s no other stage like this to witness to others and share God’s love with people.” This was Perr’s 45th year volunteering to decorate floats. Starting with volunteering with her youth group, Perr has held several roles leading to her joining the LHM Float Committee.
Paul Wasmund of Denison, Texas, has known about LHM since his parents listened to Dr. Oswald Hoffmann on The Lutheran Hour®. “I’ve talked about doing this for years, so when my brother told me about a Luther Tours group that comes out to decorate floats, I finally decided to do it this year.”
Not only did the LHM float fulfill its mission of providing a Gospel witness to viewers around the world through its float design, music, and Petal Pushers sharing God’s love, this year’s float was honored by parade organizers with the prestigious Director Award. This award recognizes the most outstanding artistic design and use of floral and non-floral
materials. The LHM float was chosen for its stained-glass windows (on the church and back of the float), the lambs on the front of the float, and the praying hands depicted on the long sides of the float.
“It’s more important now than ever to share the Gospel and spread the joy and love of Jesus,” says Helena Isbell of Escondido, California, who volunteered with her daughters this year. “I love bonding with my family and helping spread the Word of God through our actions.”
Fran Davis of Carlsbad, California, traveled to Pasadena for her birthday with her kids, Dory Thompson and Robert, with his wife, Rosie. “This is the best birthday I’ve ever had,” said Fran. Dory shared that she “had no idea of the process behind the float decorating. It’s amazing to learn how things are recycled and how it all comes together.”
Lutheran Hour Ministries is humbled with overwhelming gratitude for the thousands of people who came together to share Jesus on an immense scale. We are grateful for the ongoing leadership of Dick and Lynn Gast, the members of the Southern California District of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and the Lutheran Hour Ministries Float Committee, the painstaking volunteer efforts of the Petal Pushers, and everyone who supports this endeavor through financial support and prayers. None of this would be possible without all of you.
The LHM float is a self-funded project of the Lutheran Hour Ministries Float Committee and the Southern California District of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League. The float is not included in LHM’s operating budget. If being a part of the Rose Parade has been on your bucket list, visit petalpushers.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities. u
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Born and raised in Kansas, Kyle Peters has spent 20 years at his family’s manufacturing business and now serves as owner/ manager. His wife Ashley moved around as a child but ended up back in Kansas, where she worked as a family practice clinic nurse for 12 years before staying home to raise their four children.
In addition to enjoying time with their family, they both had extensive volunteer service at their home congregation before getting involved with Lutheran Hour Ministries.
Kyle is now the circuit president within his zone for the Kansas District of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and Kyle and Ashley both currently serve on a national cabinet for an LHM fundraising initiative, where they enjoy the opportunity to meet others and further the ministry’s mission with other likeminded individuals.
Kyle had always known about LHM because he has been listening to The Lutheran Hour® since he was young. “The Lutheran Hour was on at my grandparents’ house, my parents’ house, and now it’s on at our house,” he says.
Now they enjoy several of LHM’s resources, including The Lutheran Layman, the various materials developed in partnership with Barna Group, Project Connect booklets, and Bible studies. When leading their own Bible studies, Kyle’s men’s group at church always looks to LHM first. “LHM is our go-to place for our group. They have great resources for yourself, kids, and groups.”
They enjoy the Project Connect booklets and using them as an opportunity to share the Gospel with others. They always make sure to have Spanish booklets in addition to English available, so they can reach Spanishspeaking individuals in their community.
“LHM is a well-run operation,” says Ashley. “They do so much, and how they
take the Barna research and present it in a clear manner is very well done. There is so much to absorb, and we are excited to dig deeper into these resources. It’s top-notch.”
After meeting with an LHM staff member in 2018, they realized a named endowment was one way they wanted to make a lasting impact for ministry while honoring Kyle’s grandparents at the same time. They were able to honor the legacy that Kyle’s grandparents had left for their family while setting up a gift that would impact future generations.
“My grandparents made an incredible impact in our lives and the lives of others. This named endowment is a great way to honor their lives,” says Kyle. They liked the easy process and the fact that an endowment is more than just a one-time gift. Although both are important, Kyle and Ashley agreed that they wanted a long-term gift option. “I wanted to do something that would make a lasting impact,” says Kyle. “This was something me and my family could contribute to.”
“Ensuring future ministry is more important now than ever,” says Ashley. “Our future generations are going to need every ounce of help we can give them. This is an important part of the mission to reach these future generations.”
Setting up an endowment was straightforward and easy. “You just contact LHM, and they take care of the rest,” says Ashley. “The LHM staff members have been wonderful. They truly care about you and make you feel heard. They are great people doing great things.”
To learn more about how you can continue LHM’s mission for years to come through the Vine and Branches Endowment Circle, or other planned gifts, visit lhm.org/giftplan or call 877-333-1963. u
We know you have a heart for sharing the Gospel through LHM. But you are also encountering higher prices and market instability. You might be wondering how to balance both.
Consider a gift that pays you: a Charitable Gift Annuity. Payout rates have recently increased for the second time in six months—resulting in the highest rates in more than a decade. With this gift, you will enjoy the security of predictable payments for your lifetime (and the lifetime of a loved one, if you choose) no matter what happens with the economy.
Rates were accurate at the time of printing but are subject to change. State laws may impact your individual results. Please consult an attorney or tax advisor for additional advice.
or 877-333-1963 to learn about your potential benefits and how to get started.
“Ensuring future ministry is more important now than ever …”
A South American country nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Chile encounters numerous social, economic, and political issues as well as high rates of anxiety, sadness, and safety concerns among its people. LHM–Chile uses a variety of programs and resources to share the Gospel with tens of thousands throughout the country.
The potential reach through cell phones is huge. Through SMS Messages of Hope, LHM–Chile reaches hundreds each day. Patricia, a visually impaired woman whose children read the messages to her, says, “Thank you for these messages. They are incredibly wise and precise, often arriving at times when I needed them most.” Ministry staff also distribute content through the popular WhatsApp application.
Digital outreach continues to gain momentum for LHM–Chile through successful online seminars, presentations, and “talks.” A recent session titled “Let’s Talk About Mental Health” was watched by nearly 110,000 people. Bible Correspondence
Courses are now offered digitally instead of as printed copies. Who is Jesus? is the newest online course in Chile (it will soon be adapted for use by other ministry centers throughout the region). This six-lesson course on the Gospel of Matthew immerses students in the Word of God to learn who Jesus is—“the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
In the cities of Valparaiso and of Viña del Mar, LHM supports a chaplaincy program in schools, with booklets, pamphlets, Bibles, and the Small Catechism and children’s Bible books from Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Staff also lead presentations to parents about drug addiction prevention, teenage depression, and family violence. In just a single month, more than 1,600 printed copies of Living with Optimism, Being Parents, and Educating for Life were distributed at the two schools.
Holistic outreach plays a key role in LHM–Chile’s ministry. “A Day of Health” takes place at the local Lutheran church. Health professionals volunteer to conduct blood pressure tests, verifying oxygen concentration, and sharing information about potential health issues, while LHM staff and volunteers share messages of hope in Jesus with attendees and distribute topical materials to help improve their lives. A new “Reaching Our Neighbors” program allows LHM to set up a booth near the ministry center to share Christian materials and engage in conversations with thousands who come through the area each day by way of two subway/train stations. The goal is to build ongoing relationships to eventually connect these people with the church. u
The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation is accepting nominations now for its Board of Trustees. Nominations for a three-year term are due no later than June 30, 2023.
Nominees need to be a member in good standing of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod or Lutheran Church—Canada, have a history with the International Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries (including financial support), and be willing and able to attend several Foundation meetings throughout the year. Experience with financial planning, asset management, marketing, executive leadership, or similar professional backgrounds is preferred to help manage and grow the Foundation’s assets under management.
The LHM Foundation was created in 2000 to provide financial support and stability for the Gospel-focused work of Lutheran Hour Ministries today and into the future. The Trustees work in conjunction with a leading investment advisor to ensure expert management of assets that allows LHM’s ministries to continue to expand in size and effectiveness. The Foundation’s annual distribution to LHM from endowments and gift annuities grew to more than $1.2 million in Fiscal Year 2022. In addition, the Foundation provided more than $300,000 in ongoing support for the development of planned giving efforts in support of LHM.
To submit a nomination, please visit lhm.org/foundation/board.asp, download the nominations form, and submit it prior to June 30, 2023. Once a person is nominated, a current Trustee will contact the nominee to confirm his or her willingness to serve if elected and discuss next steps. u
October 16-28, 2023
