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Lutheran Central |
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Laywoman Convert Saddened by Schulz Recommendation |
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I am a Lutheran (converted 34 years ago prior to my marriage). I have rejoiced
in the fact that as a Lutheran I've been constantly bathed in the beautiful
message that even though I am a wretched sinner, Christ died to free me from
my sin, and having freed me, equips me to go out among other sinners to let
them know His Great Good News of salvation.
Over and over again I have read in the Scriptures that the Lord Jesus went out among the sinners (tax collectors, prostitutes, etc.) in order to reach them and save them. He did not remain among the "safe people" of His time. I believe Dr. Benke's appearance and prayer at Yankee Stadium was an effort to share that Great Good News to a hurting group of people, some of whom were "unsafe." I have been deeply saddened with the events that have transpired since that day culminating in Dr. Schulz's recommendation of suspension and the subsequent suspension by President Kieschnick. However, I am hopeful as I read of President Kieschnick's challenge of Dr. Schulz's decision. I have also become hopeful as I read of Lutheran Hour Ministries' decision to relieve Dr. Schulz of responsibilities at LHM at this time, especially as regards executive director Hebermehl's statement, "The effect of Dr. Schulz's decision has compromised the ministry of bringing Christ to the Nations-and the Nations to the church." This says to me that the Lutheran Church, MY LUTHERAN CHURCH in which I as a redeemed sinner, have found such comfort and hope, still seeks to carry out the great commission as shared in Matthew 28 and go out to ALL Nations seeking to reach them with the message given to us by the BOLD, BRAVE Jesus, Who was not afraid to go out among those whom the church leaders of His time claimed were "tax collectors and sinners" (Matthew 9:11). I love Jesus' answer to them in verses 12-13, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." May Jesus' words always be our guide and may we always respond to an opportunity to go among those who are of differing beliefs and BOLDLY proclaim our Jesus. A redeemed, hopeful Lutheran, Irene L. McFadden
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