Labor Day
Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8 ESV
As I have these devotional thoughts, we are preparing as a church body to gather in convention to set the course (with the Lord’s help and guidance) for our church work for the next two years. I’ve attended a number of CLC Conventions over the years, and, while I don’t always find them fun, they are rewarding.
In some ways a CLC Convention is a bit like a family reunion. We gather every other year and see many of the same faces. While that is comforting, it’s also good to see new faces. What I mean is it’s good to see the next generation of church leaders step into the harness. Maybe you don’t see leadership as an occupation (and perhaps it isn’t as such).
Leadership is also a gift from God. Leaders that listen and think carefully before speaking are worth their weight in gold. God has blessed our church body with many such leaders over the years. It is my personal prayer that the Savior continue to bless us with godly leadership, especially lay-leadership. When we meet in convention, we are 2/3 laymen and 1/3 clergy. That is a very good thing.
As you evaluate your gifts and abilities, consider whether God has blessed you with thoughtful leadership skills. May the Savior help you to use them in your congregation and perhaps even at the synodical level.
O God of mercy, God of might,
In love and pity infinite,
Teach us, as ever in Thy sight,
To live our life to Thee.
The Lutheran Hymnal 439:1