Posted on 07/10/2010 5:34:51 AM PDT by PJ-Comix
It has been some time since I was really involved in synodical leadership. The last time I attended a convention was six years ago, and while I am blessed to serve on the South Wisconsin District Board of Directors, my involvement in our church body at large has been minimal since my illness several years ago.
Because of this, it struck me today, upon my arrival in Houston, how different my perspective is now than it was six years ago when I was a delegate. Six years ago I was all about fixing what is wrong, making the synod safe for democracy, something like that. My theological views haven’t really changed much in six years, but my self-understanding as a pastor has changed dramatically. I’m no longer interested in the politics, the personalities, and all of the juicy gossip that every human institution inevitably breeds. At this point I am really asking the question, where is Christ? Where is the Gospel of the forgiveness of sins? Where is the healing for the brokenhearted, the balm of Gilead that can only come from the divine Word?
I know this is a little rambling. It’s late, but I wanted to get something written for the day. There are many friends here, old and new. It’s great to see them all. There are people I have been in conflict with in various was here as well. I pray for reconciliation. There will be lots of back room deals and shenanigans. There always are. But in the midst of it all, God can and is still at work. Sometimes it happens through us. Sometimes it happens in spite of us. Sometimes both at the same time. It is my prayer this week that the decisions and elections that take place here in Houston will further His Kingdom, and that the old hymn will remain true, “Lord, help us ever to retain, the catechisms doctrine plain, as Luther taught the word of truth, in simple words to tender youth!”
PING!
Remember, I mention no names.
But if you did, what would his initials be?
That would be too much of a hint but in Latin he would be Charlemagne.
BWAHAAAAAAHAAAAAAA! That's magnificent.
I was at a Synod meeting some years ago, but that was while in the ELCA. LCMS itself as a body is a Synod. The ELCA, being made of converging Lutheran denominations, calls their districts Synods. Thus, when we lived in Utah for 4 years we were in the Rocky Mountain Synod, ELCA. Here in Illinois, it was the Illinois Synod.
That was right at the time the ELCA began their destructive journey into investigating the idea of gay clergy. I walked away from that meeting very unhappy, and it was my beginning at seeking another home.
I pray our LCMS will come to grips with the issues in Houston, and select a leader who will bring us on the right track.
BTW, judging by his prayer at the end of his statement, this pastor seems to be right-headed. The LCMS must stand committed to the doctrine of the Gospel, which Luther brought to renewed light so many centuries ago.
One of the "theological" issues I would like to see addressed is why LCMS Lutherans choose the MUGGIEST city in the country to hold their conventions in July. I always thought of South Florida as the most humid area in the USA until I passed thru Houston one October. I was sweltering in that month so imagine what it must be like in July.
Todd and I were delegates together 6 years ago (different districts) but we knew each other from internet connections for quite some time before. He does have his head on straight.
PJ, CH is not in the running for POTS and I don’t know if he is slated anywhere down-ticket. I’d rather he not be chosen for anything that is directly tied to The Purple Palace.
I only flew into Houston once, and was quickly taken North for a meeting and golf at the Woodlands. Can’t really recall what it was like down there, but being on the Gulf, it has to be awfully humid. I’m a dry air kinda guy, myself...
That makes two of us...
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LOL, I’m not sure, though, if any in the LCMS want to be associated with the Holy ROMAN Empire...
Purple Palace? What’s that?
Then I recommend LCMS move to Culebra. Since no “Missouri” would be appropriate in its name, then change to LCCS. And change the Purple to Caribbean Blue.
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