You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say. Martin Luther
Meditation: Our German Church in Atlanta is a small mission church of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA). About 350 Lutheran delegates met these past days for the Southeastern Synod Assembly in Chattanooga, TN. The motto for the 500th anniversary of Luther’s 95 thesis is: “We are church for the sake of the world.” It felt good to be surrounded by other pastors who wrestle with living and speaking in a world that is so rapidly changing. It felt good being part of the larger body of Christ. The focus of the speeches was on alertness and on speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves. It is good to know that our small church is being claimed by the larger Lutheran Church, even though we are ecumenical in nature ( as we are both Catholics and Protestants). During the Synod worship the symbol of pouring water, of breaking bread and of sharing wine combined with beautiful music felt nurturing and strengthening. I suddenly realized how exhausted I was. The church cycle from September through May as the only pastor of the congregation has been intense. Now was the time to breathe and to allow the larger community to “hold” me. I am grateful!
Prayer: God you provide times where the larger body of Christ feeds us. You remind us that Your Spirit is so much more active and far reaching than we often realize. Thank you for the reminder that we as “shepherds” need to receive nurture as well. Thank you that I witnessed my colleagues wrestle with similar questions and concerns I am wrestling with. I pray that the resolutions of the Lutheran church will be brought to representatives in Congress. I pray that all Christian Churches are gathering in large numbers to speak publicly and in Your name. Amen
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Proverbs 31:8
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