Earlier this week I shared some reports about how President Gerald Kieschnick reacted to the nomination totals. I also have news on how LCMS World Relief and Human Care Executive Director Matt Harrison responded to those nomination totals. Here is the text of an email he sent out to his staff today:
Subject: Message to staff
Dear LCMS World Relief and Human Care Staff,
Grace and peace in Jesus.
I’m writing this note in light of the recent publication of the nominations numbers for the presidential and vice presidential ballots. I’ve not said or written anything publicly about this matter, but wanted to express a few thoughts to you.
The results were and remain for me, shocking. They also are deeply humbling. I think of all my many sins, faults and weaknesses. Yet in and through these the Lord sees fit to care for and lead his church. “Yet by the grace of God I am what I am.”
We don’t know what the future holds. But all of us have long known that there are no guarantees for us individually or for the continued existence of this department after this summer’s convention. Yet, I am optimistic about the future. I always have been. And come what may, I am so proud of, and thankful for, the work you have done. I have learned so much from you. I’ve been so profoundly struck by your selflessness, your service in dangerous situations, your kindness in the office, your love for the worst, the lowest, the least, your tireless efforts to help, and your integrity. I am profoundly thankful for all of you. In you I have witnessed the very best in the church’s corporate life. You wear the love of Jesus on your sleeve, and that sleeve is always rolled up, at work. What has been accomplished through you in the name of Jesus is simply beyond belief.
Today I ask you to continue your kindness to all. When negative things come, redouble your kindness. “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8) When unkind words are printed, be charitable none-the-less. We are all plagued by our wretched sinfulness, and deeply in need of Jesus every moment. Lord Jesus, have mercy upon us and upon your church.
Thank you for the privilege of serving Christ and his church along with you.
Matt
Tuesday of Easter II, 2010