By the Rev. Dr. Ron Lavin
The biblical corrective for mediocrity is joyful generosity. Stewardship Sunday is challenge to stop having a Lutheran Lite faith, rise above mediocrity, and get involved as a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. Rise above mediocrity, greed, selfishness, and fear.
Management is a Learned Art
By the Rev. L. Douglas Stowe
When you sit back and think about it, all of us are managers. We spend our days making decisions about how we will use our abilities, time, and our resources. Of course, many of our decisions are framed in ways that can limit the scope of our choices. To see reality and to make decisions that are in harmony with God’s will for our lives is not a natural reaction to life’s situations.
Tithing: A good response?
By the Rev. David Conrad
Thanks is the most wonderful Christian reason for giving throughout the New Testament. For some, thanks is an automatic response to having received something. But when considering all the gifts God gives us, such as grace, forgiveness, love, hope and eternal life, is there any greater response than thanks?
Stewardship, Faith and Life
By Duane Engelhardt
I believe that the church can be a relevant force in the life of our members by proclaiming a significantly broader interpretation of stewardship. This interpretation can be a meaningful model to vitalize the lives of our members and to grow in our faith. We are called to be good stewards of the Gospel and to proclaim the risen Christ.
Commencement Advice for Every Day
‘IT’S PERSONAL’ BLOG OK, graduates, listen up! This is your big day at last. It’s time to get out there in the world and make a difference! Pursue your dreams! Shoot for the stars! Aim high! The world is your oyster! Set lofty goals! The sky’s the limit! Let your vision be your guide! But […]
How to Avoid Boring Worship
‘IT’S PERSONAL’ BLOG
In an age of scintillating entertainment available 24/seven in smaller and ever-more-accessible gadgets, you can understand why worship seems boring to some. While worship can be fun, inspiring and enjoyable, its entertainment value is really beside the point.
What to do with more time than money? Take Stock!
Think about it: retail operations take inventory on a regular basis, businesses undergo financial audits each year, and employers conduct performance reviews of those in their employ. It makes sense that we as individuals should engage in a period of discernment or “taking stock” of our lives.
Wish!
20th Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, October 18,2009
As stewards of the gospel we are called to drink from Jesus’ cup and walk wet in the waters of his baptism. Those who put this cup to their lips will know suffering; their eyes will be opened to see the world through Jesus’ eyes. Do we dare wish this? (Photo by LifeSuperCharger. Thanks!)
Fishin’ for Folks
Lectionary Reflection for January 19, 2009
Jesus is good at meeting us and connecting with us in our own little corner of the universe. If we are open to his presence in our lives, we may find ourselves undertaking an amazing journey for a higher purpose.
Following the Leader
Lectionary Reflection for January 12, 2009
I wonder if Jesus came into our houses of worship today and issued the call to follow would he find any takers?