Pastor David Maier - Forward in Hope

Lent and Easter: Invitations to Honesty, Transparency, and Healing … for ALL

(As found in the May, 2011 issue of Michigan In Touch)

After listing the great heroes of the faith in chapter 11, Hebrews 12 begins with this grand encouragement:  1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Ah, yes, “the sin that so easily entangles.”  (All sin has that germinal propensity.)  The worst part about repeated sins, or even addictions, is the gnawing sense of unworthiness and guilt over failure.  We feel cast aside from God’s use and God’s love.  With a self-loathing that comes from our inability to meet the expectations of ourselves and others we get stuck in guilt.  Wallowing in shame we shrink from the healing and forgiveness that God freely offers.

Philip Yancy wrote of a prostitute’s shameful confession that she had wanted to rape her own sons.  She told of her rescue from that lifestyle and sexual addiction by those who loved her unconditionally and shared God’s love with her.  She later recounted that God’s grace can heal, but after a moment’s reflection added, “It isn’t easy to be healed.”

Change Your Life: THINK (... on These Things)

(As found in the March, 2011 issue of Michigan In Touch)

Imagine with me, if you will, that you are in fact an Olympic caliber athlete. You are in training for 1,600 and 3,200 meter events at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, England. With just a little over two years left for training and tryouts, how many of you would begin the Twinkies diet between now and the Games?

As I write this, The North American International Auto Show is taking place in Detroit, Michigan (1.11). From what I’ve heard (I’ve never been there), it’s a glitzy display case for the newest in automobile design and technology. If you were fortunate enough to be able to buy one of the display vehicles, would you fill the fuel tank with water, or Gatorade, or your favorite beer?

The food we eat or the fuel we use will ultimately determine the performance and well being of our bodies and our vehicles. Everyone would agree with this. From Atkins Bars or wheatgrass shots to octane boosters and synthetic oils, companies which help us determine what to put into our bodies and into our cars are multi-billion dollar industries.

What could be more important than what we put into our bodies and into our cars? Unfortunately, it is an area that we rarely deliberately consider, or if we do, it is with a “whatever” nonchalance. What you “fuel” your bodies or cars with really pales in comparison with what you feed … your minds.

Christian Care Concert - March 6, 2011!

In March, under the theme “Touching Lives, Giving Hope,” Michigan District congregations have the opportunity to celebrate, participate, and proclaim God’s love and care for those served through their local outreach ministries and three Recognized Service Organizations (RSOs): Lutheran Child & Family Service of Michigan, Lutheran Homes of Michigan, and Project Compassion Ministries, Inc.

To kick-off this month long celebration, a benefit Christian Care Concert is being planned for Sunday, March 6 at Faith Lutheran Church, 37635 Dequindre, Troy, Michigan.  This concert features seven Metro-Detroit area choirs: Billy D. Brooks Memorial Lutheran Choir, Concordia University Ann Arbor Arborsong, the former Detroit Urban Lutheran School Choir, Lutheran City Ministries Girls and Boys Choir, Lutheran High School Association Combined Choirs, The Mosaic Singers (presented by the Ford Motor Company Fund), and St. John (Rochester) Choraliers.

Come, Let Us Worship the Lord our Maker

The following is the President's Article in the December/January Michigan in Touch District Magazine.  It written to serve as "An Introduction and Invitation to the Michigan District Theological Conferences on Worship in early 2011."

In the first stanza of a hymn recently penned by Rev. Steven P. Starke of Michigan, we read these words:

O sing of Christ, whose birth made known The kindness of the Lord,

Eternal Word made flesh and bone, So we could be restored. 

Upon our frail humanity God’s finger chose to trace

The fullness of His deity, The icon of His grace.¹  LSB, #362

Having come to know the Word made flesh by God’s grace through faith, we joyously sing, praising our God for His great kindness in giving us a Savior from sin.  We read the Christmas accounts in the Gospels, marveling at the angelic announcement to the shepherds and their response of wonder, joy, and proclamation. (Lk. 2:8-20)  We celebrate God’s leading of the Magi by star which enabled them to see God, worship the Word made flesh, and present Him with gifts. (Matt. 2:1-12)

A Season of MIRACLES - YES They Still Happen ... and We Need Them

MIRACLES … perhaps because of the age in which we live, have taken on the cloak of the fantastical, whimsical, or the special effect in a movie.  Maybe because of the very tough times in which we live they impossible.  Rarely, for many, do “miracles” embrace the category of “possibility” because of something supernatural, much less because of God.

Even those who “believe” in miracles have romantic notions of how and where they take place.  Too often we suppose that supernatural miracles only happen in special or splendid circumstances.  But part of the great Good News at Christmas is that God clothes Himself in the ordinary – and does amazing things!

Not Then, Nor NOW, Can We Avoid the Cities

One of the great challenges for the Church today, and perhaps in particular for The Michigan District, is how to carry on vital and vibrant urban ministry.  More than half of the churches that were thriving in the mid 1950’s in Detroit are now closed, with those remaining  very challenged in their ministries and even in worship attendance.  It is possible that there will no longer be any Lutheran Schools in Detroit by the end of this year.

I’ve heard some excuse this as just the normal turn of events for a city.  Others have recognized the horrible economic plight of our entire state and how it has ravaged Detroit.  Still more have said that “Lutheranism” can no longer impact Detroit like it once did because of Detroit's multi-nationalism and multi-culturalism.

What Are You Doing This Summer? SPIRITUAL GROWTH: MY JOB OR GOD'S?

Psychologists say one of the primary causes of conflict in households involves disputes over what's generally called “division of labor.” If the bed goes unmade, if the dishes go unwashed, if the diaper goes unchanged, who is responsible for getting the job done?  We’re all aware that many households have never had a calm, rational discussion about who is best equipped to do what.

I’d like to ask this question:  Whose job is spiritual growth?  (This really deals with what is known as the doctrine of sanctification.)  For many Christians there is confusion about the division of labor as it relates to spiritual growth or sanctification.  "Is it God's job, or is it mine?"

Aim At Perfection (as found in the June, 2010 Michigan In Touch)

Think about it.   Most of us our average, right?

Of course it depends on what we’re talking about.  I want to emphatically state, however, that there is no correlation between being average athletically, academically, and socially, and being average spiritually.  In fact, if anything, we have an advantage.  One of the most important elements of being a healthy, holy, useful Christian is knowing how much sin has corrupted you, how much you need the Lord Jesus Christ, how inadequate you are of yourself, and how only by God’s grace can you be sufficient for anything.

This We Believe

One of the blessings of being a District President (I'm learning) is the privilege of being able to read books and other materials prior to their publication (with the opportunity also of being able to suggest and submit possible 'improvements').  President Hoesman shared one such resource with me in August of 2009 during a transition meeting.  It is entitled This We Believe with a subtitle of Selected Topics of Faith and Practice in The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. (The underlined title/subtitle are dynamic links that will take you directly to the order page at Concordia Publishing House [CPH].)

This We Believe is a outstanding resource that I've already referenced many times.  Whether sharing information and suggestions with pastors questioning how to respond to challenging questions and situations or discussing some of the LC-MS's doctrinal stances with laity, it is a most useful reference tool.

The following are a few excerpts from the Preface of This We Believe explaining its purpose and content:  "What is the position of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod on ...?"  This is

ASH WEDNESDAY (Beginning the Lenten Journey) - May God Cleanse Us “Through and Through”

Numerous translations or interpretations of the Bible exist today.  As do many pastors, I love those versions that, although sometimes awkward in their English translation, most accurately reflect the original.  It is then up to the reader and studier of the Scriptures to determine what the Holy Spirit was inspiring the Scriptures writers to pen in those sections for God’s people to understand and apply to their life.

The King James Translation of Psalm 51:2, if read correctly, is surely awkward, accurate, and anything but ambivalent.  As the reader studies King David’s sincere prayer of repentance, with the Holy Spirit’s help and the sure voice of other Scriptures, the awkward rendering of the King James, once understood, is pregnant with meaning.

SUNDAY! 6 pm - January 31 Christian Care Concert - Faith Lutheran Church, Troy, MI

"Touching Lives, Giving Hope" A Christian Care Concert will be held Sunday, January 31, 2010 at Faith Lutheran Church (37635 Dequindre) in Troy at 6:00 p.m.

This Christian Care Concert will feature:

• Billy D. Brooks Memorial Lutheran Choir
• Detroit Urban Lutheran School Choir
• Lutheran City Ministries Choir
• Lutheran High School North Concert Choir
• Arbor Song Concordia University Ann Arbor

The Manhattan Declaration

In December of 2009 I began receiving emails and calls seeking information regarding The Manhattan Declaration.  During the last month questions have increased not only from individual pastors but also from circuits asking whether they could sign the Declaration.

The authors of The Manhattan Declaration (Robert George - Professor, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence, Princeton University; Timothy George - Professor, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University; and Chuck Colson - Founder, the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview (Lansdowne, VA)) have labeled the Declaration ‘A Call of Christian Conscience’.   It seems to be born out of two recognitions:

"What To Look For When Choosing A Church" - by Dr. Bryan Salminen

The following article was written by good friend Dr. Bryan Salminen for the purpose of being published in the Cadillac News.  It was also given to all of the members of the church he shepherds, Emmanuel, Cadillac.  In this article Bryan tackles, what I believe he has correctly identified as, one of the most perplexing issues of the Christian life today:  "Which church should I attend?"  Although the worship service should be engaging, too often, it seems, many look to be "entertained." 

Bryan gives some sound, biblical, easily understandable, thoughts and advice on this subject.  I hope that this post encourages some spirited discussion.  Enjoy reading the post.

HIGHLIGHTED MINISTRY: FATHERHOOD PROGRAM ... St. Paul Lutheran Church, Northville, MI

Periodically, it will be a genuine pleasure and great joy for me to highlight ministry programs that are taking place in various congregations and organizations around the District.  It is my hope and prayer that as you become informed about what these churches and organizations are doing as ‘creative’ or ‘new for them’ ministry that you might gain encouragement, new ideas, creativity, and impetus for similar or other ministry activities within your church or area.

It was recently brought to my attention that St. Paul Lutheran Church in Northville (dynamic link - just click) has begun an “All-Pro Dad” program.  The December monthly meeting which took place on December 17, was a one hour program entitled “Launch Your Kids.”  They were indeed blessed by having as a guest speaker former astronaut Jim Bagian of Northville.

The Last Word

As I stand at the threshold of a year almost spent and a new year almost begun I am aware that pause should be given to remember God's faithfulness over the past year to His people ... to me, to you.

God's faithfulness intrinsically has a prophetic character about it:  His goodness and grace, His mercy and manifold love, His presence and power and peace given to us and demonstrated for us in the past are harbingers, ensigns, hope-filled guarantees if you will, of how God will continue to be and act. (Cf. Deuteronomy 7:9)

Sex and the Christian Marriage

This past Sunday afternoon I had the privilege of speaking to the adult youth leaders, church leaders and parents at the Mid-Michigan Purity Rally at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Lansing, MI.  Bill Yonker, close friend, noted Youth Speaker, and Pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Dundee, IL, was the featured speaker for the Youth.  He also was the preacher for Our Savior's Reformation Services, also celebrated on November 1.  Of course, God used him mightily in both venues.

In my research while preparing for my presentation to the adults I came across an article at crosswalk.com written by contributing editor Betsy St. Amant.  It was entitled "Sex and the Christian Marriage ."  The title is a hyper link that will take you directly to the article ... but it is also reprinted here.  It is an excellent, candid and informative article that is well worth the read ... for those who are dating, those contemplating marriage, and those married, whether they are "veterans" or in the first years of marriage.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I.

Please leave your comments below.  It would be great to get a discussion going.

"Sex and the Christian Marriage" by Betsy St. Amant

A Mighty Word of Encouragement to a Grandson from his Grandparents

Someone asked me recently about the “Health Updates” that used to be online from when both my son Joel and I were sick.  I know that they were on a different blog with a different company and I am not sure that I will be able to get them back.  However, this individual specifically asked about the letter we published that was sent from Joel’s grandparents (my parents) to encourage him after he could not attend a family gathering.  He was, at that time, very sick from his routine of daily radiation and still had roughly three more weeks of radiation treatments which closely followed upon his successful brain tumor surgery at the University of Michigan (and preceded his year and a quarter of chemo treatments).

We still have that letter … and it is reproduced below with hopes and prayers that it will encourage anyone going through a difficult time in their life.  Notice the continual dependence upon and use of the Holy Scriptures, the inspired, powerful Word of God.  I am very thankful to God, as is Joel, that my parents wrote this letter.  May it bless you as well.

Following Up On the "PRIORITIES ..." Post

There are many things that distract us from our seeking God first! ... especially in this technological age.  Putting the best construction on everything ... we readily admit that God, time with God in His Word, Church, reading about God, praying, etc., is not only important to our spiritual life .. BUT OUR DAY JUST GOES BETTER WHEN HE IS #1!

But there are emails to check and answer (when it works), twits to tweet, Facebook to keep up, IM's to instantly message on, ... and Oh, yeah, the home or office phone to answer, SKYPE on your computer, cell phone calls, etc.

Communication ... presents some amazing challenges for just about everyone.  If your not careful ... the devil can be in these details.

Priorities and discipline seem to be in order.

Priorities ... What's FIRST is all important!

Maybe, like me, you find that often there never seems to be enough time in any given day.  There are so many things that we "need" to get done ... and then so many interruptions, diversions, or distractions.  Focus all too often unnecessarily gets shifted. 

We must remember that our heavenly Father already knows what we need (Matthew 6:32) in every area of life.  And the advice Jesus gives next is worthy of full allegiance and adherence.  But first ...

FAITHFUL!

“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.” – Jesus

Tomorrow is Confirmation Sunday at Our Savior.  The Scripture chosen for the mediation for this special day is Revelations 2:8-10:  8 “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:  These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.  9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.  10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.

TAKE A STAND / FIRE SOME SHOTS - It Happened on EASTER Day, 2009

My parents heard it on their way home to Ft. Wayne, and when they arrived to let us know they arrived there safely they also informed me, “Captain Phillips is safe!  We heard it on the radio on the way home.”

Remember that Captain Richard Phillips was captain of the Maesrsk Alabama that had been attacked by Somali pirates.

I immediately checked the internet and just as they said, he had been rescued and was safe.  And what a rescue it was.  “Three of the pirates were killed by the U.S. Navy SEALs and the fourth one is currently in custody.” Apparently, the Navy SEAL sharp shooters had done their work.

Affliction - A Teacher of Grace

There is an interesting passage of Scripture found in Hebrews 12:15.  (It should be a guideline for all our worship services ... and my sermons.)  Hebrews 12:15 reads, "See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many."