Director’s Letter
Abiding in the Mission of the Church
The seasons turn; change is in the air. Do you sense it? We’re soaring forward on potent tailwinds. God’s Word is proclaimed and His Sacraments are administered in the face of a world adamantly opposed to Jesus. We love our enemies and pray for those who persecute the Church, imploring our heavenly Father to graciously bring about repentance. We poor, miserable sinners, in the pattern of the saints gone before — lifted up in mutual consolation and encouragement — “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which [we] have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1b–3). In the mission of the Church we abide, even as we bear the cross of Christ — crucified, dead and risen for the life of the world.
The transformation effected by this Gospel accumulates globally, yet happens locally. Consider the examples in this issue of Lutherans Engage the World. God literally is bringing the nations to our doorstep, from Milwaukee to Maryland and to countless other points around the U.S. The beautiful work of the LCMS Office of National Mission sails on in support of districts and congregations — all of it under the mission priorities established by our Synod in convention.
I am struck with awe and filled with profound gratitude for the impact that you, dear reader, are making on people’s lives (with consequences extending into eternity) under God’s gracious will and perfect foreknowledge. We rejoice in acknowledging His goodness: “Let your work be shown to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands” (Ps. 90:16–17).
In Christ,
Rev. Kevin D. Robson
Chief Mission Officer, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
