Seven. Yesterday (June 18th) marked seven years of ministry for me at Trinity. (The picture is likely the only time you will ever see a tri-unity of Luchterhand preachers in full garb for one service) In the Lutheran tradition, I ask, “What does this mean?” The number seven is a Biblical number for completion and perfection. Four (the number for mankind/earth) plus three (the number for God, the Trinity) equals seven. How shall I interpret/apply this to my own life/ministry? Has it been perfect? Hardly. Is it complete? Does this mean I don’t have to prepare a sermon for this coming Sunday? Nope. I’ll leave it at this: it is truly a privilege to serve the Savior and his people, and for the last seven years, that service has taken place in our little corner of the Northwoods, at a congregation that has existed for 110 years.
Thirty-three. Next month will mark 33 years for me as a pastor. Hardly a significant number! We have pastors and teachers in our midst who have served longer and in a variety of ways. I have learned some lessons along the way. A few of them:
- It’s not my work/ministry, it’s God’s.
- God’s Word is a daily necessity.
- When someone in our church family is hurting/straying/obstinate, the shepherd hurts too.
- The world changes, but the Gospel never changes.
- Patience in all things is essential.
One. I’ve just completed my first year as “acting principal” at Trinity. It is my prayer that not many more remain! Over the next couple of years, administrative duties will continue to be handed off to our young principal-in-training. Observations:
- There’s been some “acting.” I didn’t know all that I needed to know at the outset. How could I? But I’m learning!
- I now know more about the workings and responsibilities of our school than I ever wanted to know nor did I need to, until now. New items come up every week, sometimes daily, often pushing familiar pastoral work off to the side for a bit.
- Our teaching staff is amazing! God has gifted Trinity with teachers who have a heart for Jesus and his precious lambs. Their skill and determination are unparalleled! I knew this already, but to see this up close every day is inspiring!
- I’m grateful for so many who have assisted and encouraged this ministry throughout the years, and especially last year: teachers, secretary, our part-time (at times, more than that!) pastor, school board and council leaders, parents, volunteers, indeed, our entire Trinity family. And, I am so grateful for the strength and stability provided by my family, especially my dear bride of…
Thirty-seven years! In a world where everything and everybody is disposable, replaceable, expendable, and undependable, how many things last 37 years? Last week, Heidi and I celebrated and reflected on our 37 years of Christian marriage. We’re coming up on 40 years since our first date… I am grateful for God’s grace, which he has showered upon us in so many ways.
Seventy-five. Last week, my in-laws celebrated 75 years of Christian marriage. Take the previous paragraph and multiply it by two, and add one! God’s grace, indeed!
Thirty-one and Six. I’ve been blessed to celebrate Father’s Day as an actual Dad for 31 years (four adult children now) and as an actual Grandpa for six years (four grandchildren, 2 in AZ and 2 in WI). The joys and challenges of these roles are relentless, breathtaking, and enjoyable beyond words. May God grant continued joy in this area of life!
Not a single one of the above blessings is deserved. Nor am I capable on my own to carry out my designated responsibilities of husband, father, grandfather, pastor, “acting” principal, etc. Such blessings and capability come from the Lord’s gracious hand: “Such is the confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent by ourselves to claim that anything comes from us, rather, our competence is from God.” (2 Corinthians 3:4,5)
“Now to him, who is able, according to the power that is at work within us, to do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20,21)
Grateful for God’s Grace,
Pastor Stephen Luchterhand