A Few Brief Reflections on Current Events in the ELCA

A few brief reflections on the recent flurry of press releases from the ELCA:

1. I think we hit a nerve.

2. There is no such thing as too much publicity.

3. Pastor Bouman obviously does not approve of Lutheran CORE's definition of the word "Mission." That's ok. We don't agree with his definition of that word either. That gives us a place to begin debate. But he needs to give up the "I care about the downtrodden immigrant more than you do" line of attack. If, that is, he is truly interested in discussion and not attack.

4. This is exactly the way those of us on the steering committee expected the churchwide office to act toward Lutheran CORE. And I find it sad that churchwide has lived down to our expectations.

5. See number 1.

I do want to say one thing more. I was and am very glad that Pastor Bouman attended the Lutheran CORE convocation at Fishers. He was there for most of the event. That could not have been easy. Strong words were used, even a few harsh words, about the ELCA. In spite of his letter, I hope he continues to reflect on what he heard there, in the same way as I continue to reflect on what I heard at the Churchwide Assembly and at the GoodSoil worship service at Central Lutheran. It is easy to be offended. What is difficult is to ask, seriously and sincerely, "Lord, is it I who is in the wrong?"

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us all.