Light of the world
Living Faithfully

Light of the world

A few years ago, we received an early Christmas gift—a musical snowman with a carrot nose and a trumpet snug in his hands. It’s a decorative piece that connects to…
Expanding the idea of family
Living Faithfully

Expanding the idea of family

When many people picture the holidays, their family comes to mind, even if it’s accompanied by commentary about having to tolerate certain members’ irritating qualities. And then there is the…
Staying centered as caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Voices of Faith

Staying centered as caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic

I vividly remember a day shortly into my first pastoral call when I went home and told my husband I hadn’t had a chance to go to the bathroom for…
A nativity story
Living Faithfully

A nativity story

Focal verse To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is the Messiah, the Lord (Luke 2:11). Reflection Tucked in a closet with all…
Study guide: Expanding the idea of family
Study Guides

Study guide: Expanding the idea of family

“You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family,” says the old adage, implying that we are simply stuck with whatever oddball characters who comprise our families of…
Gratitude and joy
Living Faithfully

Gratitude and joy

Focal verse Praise the Lord! O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. —Psalm 106:1 Reflection I heard the stomping of feet…
Prayer ventures: Nov. 21
Prayer Ventures

Prayer ventures: Nov. 21

Every day, Living Lutheran offers a prayer for the day from the ELCA resource Prayer ventures, which can be downloaded here. These petitions are offered as a guide for your own prayer life…
The plate of blessing
Living Faithfully

The plate of blessing

When I was 10, I came to the dinner table one night to find my family’s special red plate at my usual seat. I smiled wide. I had told my…
Failure and faith
Living Faithfully

Failure and faith

One of my greatest faith lessons came from failing at youth sports. I sat on the bench for four years. Four years! I tried my best, gave it everything I…
I’m a Lutheran: Sherri Rinker
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Sherri Rinker

Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Charles, Ill. Children’s book author I started exploring church in college. I remember feeling incredibly awkward—not knowing the routine, having no sense of what was happening when…
“Taking care of each other”
Living Faithfully

“Taking care of each other”

When the COVID-19 lockdown began in March and most ELCA congregations moved to virtual services, the St. Luke Lutheran Church and Christian Day School community in Silver Spring, Md., felt…