When local churches determine to serve their surrounding communities, it’s not always clear whether their efforts are truly making a difference. So they continue to extend themselves in love, uplifted by the example and command of Jesus: “So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do,
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Did you know that Texas District reflects a new church demographic for the twenty-first century? While general statistics in the LCMS show a declining, aging, mono-cultural church body, God’s mission in the Texas District is forming and shaping a church body that looks much different. What does the LCMS look
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After His death and resurrection, Jesus told his disciples: “Go and share the blessing given to Abraham. Don’t keep it to yourselves. It’s time to extend the Message everywhere and to everyone… to All Nations!” Matt. 28:18-20 paraphrased Although Jesus was clear in His Great Commission, it took the disciples
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It is no secret that the demographics in the State of Texas have been changing. Even the small towns are reflecting the changing nature of our communities. Moreover, our children are also changing with it. Their outlook in life is different from their parents and grandparents. Diversity is embraced in
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Tucked away in the corner of a Chick-fil-A I visited recently was a not-so-typical accessory of a fast-food restaurant. On the way to the kids’ play area; across from the napkin, straw and ketchup station; pressed between tables for customers was an electric piano. Around the height of the lunch
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I read a book on personal development and business leadership last month. It is not surprising that the best leadership principles are Christian principles and are easy to trace their biblical roots to the informed Christian. This book is no exception. It has nuggets that are and could be helpful
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During a run on one of my favorite paths a few weeks ago, I happened to encounter a high school cross country team. It’s happened many times over the years. In the old days, I kept pace with the young and thundering runners. I even dared them to try to
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You may have heard the rumor that Lutherans are strong and silent types. None of this gushing about Jesus to people — no, we’re more comfortable dishing up a good casserole or barbecuing some tasty brisket with a smile that shows the love of Jesus. But recently I visited a
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You’ll never guess what Cindy and I received during the pastors conferences in October. At one of the sites near the end of our journey, a member of the congregation turned to us and asked, “Do you want a big, stuffed unicorn?” I looked at my wife as her eyes
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Area C of the Texas District includes Georgetown south to the Rio Grande Valley, and Del Rio east all the way through Fayette County and down to the Coastal Bend. The area is seeing some changes in personnel to help individuals and churches with mission and ministry needs. Three part-time
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