Dear Members and Friends of the ELS: Greetings to all for a good new year! During the time of the Civil War, the famous Lutheran theologian, Dr. Walther, told the members of his congregation: “Only he who has celebrated a blessed Christmas can also celebrate a happy new year. Only he who on such a […]

Dear Members and Friends of the ELS: We are in the “stirring” time of the year. This is not a reference to baking. Nor do we have in mind the political proceedings. While we may find calendars busy with all kinds of activities, this too is not why we speak of the season upon us […]

Dear Members and Friends of the ELS: From this newsletter, you can see that anniversaries and mission rallies are on the agendas of many of our congregations. This reminds me that the focus of All Saints Day, November 1, is to give thanks to God for the power of his Holy Spirit bringing people to […]

Dear Members and Friends of the ELS: It is generally accepted that to pursue knowledge is to pursue happiness. Proverbs states, “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge” (23:12). To learn things about life in this world, generally leads to making money to support ourselves and others, learning to take […]

Dear Members and Friends of the ELS: How is your happiness meter? Busy schedules, new obligations, dealing with extra challenges—these things weigh heavy and can quickly overtake the joy we should have. I am reminded of a man who owned a small estate but wasn’t so satisfied with it. So, he decided to sell. He […]