"And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach." Mark 3:14
Sometimes, we are less than enamored with our pastors. Pastors are sinner, and sinners are imperfect. We find it hard to look past their imperfections. They are, after all, just men.
But there is something different about our pastors, something that sets them apart. THey are not different in the sense that they are better or more valued than we are, but the Lord has placed them in an office to serve us, to shepherd us, to protect us from those things that would harm us, to show us Jesus.
Just as the Lord chose men to be his apostles, so also today the Lord picks men for the Office of Holy Ministry, placing them in a vocation that bears his authority with it. In and by him, these men pronounce forgiveness of sins, administer his sacraments, deliver his Word, listen, counsel, console, and comfort the sheep in their care.
A pastor's vocation is a weighty one, and the devil particularly preys on pastors. They are in need of our prayers. Your pastor isn't perfect. He will mess up. He is sure to disappoint you. But the Lord has placed him in your life for your benefit, for your protection, for your good. He is there to stand in Christ's stead... for you.
Dear Jesus, we give thanks that you have instituted the pastor office, that men might deliver your gifts of life and forgiveness to us on your behalf. Amen.
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THURSDAY'S QUIZ: What was the name of the other daughter in law of Naomi? Orpah (not Oprah)
Our first task is to gain sufficient signatures to place the amendment on the ballot for voters to decide. More information and particulars about the amendment are available at www.ceimissouri.org or www.mo.lcms.org. This is a great way to provide tax credits to individuals and companies while enhancing the K-12 education of children in Missouri. Our Lutheran schools would use the foundation monies to provide financial assistance to families, thereby making our Lutheran schools accessible for more children.
More information will be shared on March 9th. If you are a registered voter, please stop by the table in the Welcome Center in the following weeks to sign the petition. You are not voting for the amendment but simply placing it on the ballot so that you and other voters can decide in November.
