Luther Seminary’s vision statement, adopted in October 2017, is this: “The Holy Spirit calls Luther Seminary to lead faithful innovation for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a rapidly changing world.”
Over the past few months, I’ve been struck by the “rapidly changing world” part of our vision statement more than ever before.
After all, here we are: in the midst of a pandemic that shows no signs of slowing, experiencing the social unrest of generations of racial injustice in the United States, and about to enter what is sure to be a deeply divisive election season. I add to that the personal traumas of untimely death, heartache, food insecurity, and job loss that so many are experiencing
The changes are rapid and disruptive, indeed!
Yet despite all the uncertainty, there is one thing I do know.
God is faithful, and God is making a way.
Today, I invite you to stop, breathe, and look around. Where is God showing up right here, right now?
I’ve found that when I take the time to ask this question, I am overwhelmed by “God sightings:” in Scripture where the Word of God reveals language for the deepest hurts and sin and shows us the hope for the world, in creation where God’s handiwork is on full display, in the neighborhood where people are finding new ways to connect, in conversations with friends and strangers who show us the face of Christ.
May the hope that is in Christ Jesus sustain and strengthen you, even in the midst of these rapid changes!
Grace and peace,
Robin J. Steinke, President
Luther Seminary