by Anthony A. Cook The View from Here Editor’s Note: With this online column, we offer occasional essays on topics that appear in The Lutheran Witness or that have broad interest among our readers. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Every social group has a story–a narrative that gives the group meaning, defines values, articulates goals, identifies enemies, and records
by Rev. John T. Pless As I write these lines, the world reels with the news of a devastating earthquake in Haiti that has left a death toll numbering in the thousands. In this impoverished nation, the magnitude of suffering cannot be measured. Closer to home, senseless workplace murders, seemingly random violence, and cases of
In an increasingly secular and pluralistic society, what is the status of the Church, and how do we engage the unchurched around us?
From the differently formed to the unborn without an opportunity to ever form, Luther links our mission with how we live.
Which is more important? Doctrine or mission?
Unbelievers…will not, on their own, choose to come and hear the Gospel. We (the Church) must go to them.
It’s the beginning of a new year. It’s an opportunity also to review how we employ—and treat—our volunteer staff.
For me, the beginning of the new year is always exciting. What will the ensuing months bring? Where will I fail? Where will I succeed? How will I grow? Coupled with looking ahead, I always make it a practice to look behind. To reflect on the closing year, to remember, and to ask, “What has God been up to in my life?”
by Dr. Leslie (Jack) Fyans I have lived in the upper Midwest all my life but have always dreaded the winters. The gloomy weather depresses me. Do other people have this problem, or is it just me? All of us are affected by our natural environment, and our bodies seem to be especially sensitive to
At the heart of it all, as so vividly expressed by Luther’s famous Christmas hymn, “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”—the focus of two of our stories this month—is the birth of God’s Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ.
A trip to a hometown ‘holiday’ celebration creates an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus’ birth.
A number of Christmas hymns are associated with Martin Luther. Here are the most familiar.