ELCA Blogs

Brian Hiortdahl, Overland Park, KS

Warm-up Question

What color is the dress?

Sight Lines

A photo of a blue and black dress (or is it white and gold?) went viral recently, launching a widespread color debate that captivated the internet.

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(photo from Caitlin McNeill’s Tumblr site.)

Celebrities and scientists were among the millions who weighed in and the New York Times took up the question. Thescience suggests that it has something to do with light and how human eyes receive it.

Discussion Questions

Why do you think the debate about the dress colors was so intense?
How many other examples can you list of people seeing the same thing differently—and passionately arguing (or even fighting) about it?

Fourth Sunday in Lent

Numbers 21:4-9

Ephesians 2:1-10

John 3:14-21

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year B at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

Presenting his gospel like a stage play director, John has turned down the lights. Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night because John wants us to see that he is in the dark, in sharp contrast to Jesus, the light of the world (see also John 1:9, 8:12, 9:5).

In their conversation, Jesus is trying to get Nicodemus to see things in a different way, but with limited success. Their disconnect mirrors a passionate divide that runs throughout John’s gospel between those who accept Jesus and those who reject him. Those who accept him believe, and those who do not “are condemned already” as they shun the light in favor of darkness.

Jesus is like the dress: the same phenomenon seen very differently, but always sparking a strong reaction.

But John, seeing him differently, would say that Jesus is the light. The world is the dress. (The Greek word for world iscosmos, which has various shades of meaning itself—humanity, “the way things are,” the powers that resist God, all of creation. John, whose writing covers many levels at once, probably intends all of these simultaneously.) Jesus the light shines upon the world and reveals its true colors.

But Jesus also reveals to us the true colors of God’s heart: God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. God loyally loves the fickle world. The designer’s eyes consistently see the world as worth saving.

The price tag attached is steep: Jesus will end up black and blue on the cross. Yet the colors of Easter are white and gold. The Light changes everything.

Discussion Questions

How do you see Jesus? How is your view different from how others see Jesus? Does he bring love or judgment…or both?
How do you see the world? Is it good or evil…or both? If the world were two colors, what would they be?
Are there things in your life you keep in the dark because you are afraid they will be exposed?

Activity Suggestions

Review the colors of the church year. What do those seasonal color choices reveal about about God’s love and our lives?
Interview someone who is blind, or colorblind. How do they “see” (receive and process what is happening around them in) the world? What do they notice that people with sight do not?

Closing Prayer

Light of the world, shine God’s love into our lives. Train our eyes to see your truth, and transform our works into bright witnesses to God’s beautiful grace, in order that those who see us would be drawn not toward death but into life. Amen

ELCA Advocacy

Lutherans are taking action across the country! Below you will find our monthy State Advocacy Newsletter. Share with your friends!

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Washington, D.C.

Advocacy Director, Stacy Martin

www.elca.org/advocacy

Visits with Lutheran members of Congress:

This year, ELCA Advocacy policy directors continue to work on building connections with Lutheran lawmakers and their staff in Congress. Since the beginning of March, we have had productive conversations with nearly 20 congressional offices from both sides of the aisle and are working to highlight Lutheran policy values and reaffirm the significance of faith-based advocacy.

50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the Selma-to-Montgomery march and the Voting Rights Act of 1965: This weekend, thousands from across the United States and around the world will gather in Alabama for the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the Selma-to-Montgomery march and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Along with civil rights activists, elected officials and faith leaders, some of our ELCA churchwide staff and young adult leaders will travel from various parts of the country to bear witness to this historic event. Visit our ELCA Advocacy blog to read reflections from these Lutheran leaders as they prepare to make the journey to Selma, including why they feel called to attend and what they hope to gain from this experience. Be sure to follow this event on ELCA Advocacy social media!

Visit to Central America: In February, staff from our office joined other ELCA churchwide leaders on a trip to El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala to understand the factors behind increased migration of children and families and to learn about their repatriation process. The trip reaffirmed our commitment to raise our voices together to ensure the stories we heard are not forgotten. Follow our action alerts to learn more about our advocacy efforts for migrants and new initiatives as a result of this trip.

Lenten Reflections: As we journey through this season of Lent, ELCA Advocacy policy staff continues to share weekly reflections on ways in which we can act together to affect long-lasting changes in our communities through self-reflection, forgiveness and reconciliation. Follow our Lenten series by signing up for ELCA Advocacy alerts or by following our Advocacy blog.

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New York, NY

Advocacy Director, Dennis Frado

United Nations: The 59th session of the Commission on the Status of Women will take place at United Nations Headquarters in New York March 9-20, 2015. This is the 20^th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action. The theme will focus on current challenges that affect its implementation and the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women. LOWC is expecting to host 31 Lutheran delegates (six international and 25 ELCA members) and two side events.

Augusta Victoria Hospital: LOWC staff has been working with ELCA Peace Not Walls on various advocacy actions related to the financial (cash flow) crisis being faced by The Lutheran World Federation operated Augusta Victoria Hospital. Visit the ELCA Advocacy Action Center to learn how you can take action!

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California

Mark Carlson, Lutheran Office of Public Policy- CA 

www.loppca.org

Valentine’s Lobby Day: LOPP-CA participated in a Health and Human Services Coalition”Break Up with Poverty” Lobby Day on Feb. 14th, along with a Lutheran lay leader with a chronic diseaseand limited mobility. The agenda included increasing the minimum wage and allowing undocumented immigrants to participate in the Covered California health plans.

Climate Change: 25% of California’s carbon cap-and-trade funds are allocated to High Speed Rail (HSR). Although it has become politicized, LOPP-CA supported the original HSR bond financing measure approved by voters, a part of California’s climate action plan. (See photo to the right.)

Child Care: Director Mark Carlson participated in a child care rally and a lecture by the author of an award-winning study on the difference between informal and formal child care for children of immigrant families (formal care makes a big difference in school readiness and avoiding an achievement gap).

Looking Ahead: Plans are in the works for a conference of the California Budget Project and the annual in-person meeting of the steering committee for California Interfaith Power & Light.

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Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry – Colorado

www.lam-co.org

Faith Advocacy Day: Colorado Faith Advocacy Day 2015 took place on Monday, Feb. 16. Nearly 100 advocates gathered to hear keynoter Tom Luehrs (pictured right), executive director of the St. Francis Center, and panelists B.J. Iacino from the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless and Keith Singer with Family Tree House of Hope, a shelter for women and children. Thanks to all who attended for a powerful witness of the Church’s call to advocacy.

Legislation: Several notable hunger and poverty bills have emerged in both chambers. SB 12, which would allow child support payments to be received by families on Colorado Works instead of by county governments, is in Senate Appropriations. SB 79, which would use a county clerk document fee to fund a new Affordable Housing Investment Fund, is awaiting an initial committee hearing. HB 1080, which would have reduced participation in the school breakfast program and was opposed by Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado and many other hunger groups, was defeated in committee.

Other issues: Gov. John Hickenlooper’s special task force on oil and gas sent nine recommendations to the governor’s desk. Urban and suburban communities on the Front Range have been battling oil and gas companies over development near homes and schools. Recommendations include incentivizing mediation between the two sides to avert costly legal battles, increasing state health department staff to monitor air quality compliance, and encouraging the Legislature to approve new pollution control measures.

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Minnesota

Tammy Walhof, Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota

tammy@lcppm.org

Clean Energy & Jobs Day at the Capitol: Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota (LA-MN) was host at Christ Lutheran for the many partners and 400+ participants of our Day at the Capitol. The event included briefings, legislator visits, prayer circles, a youth meeting with Gov. Dayton, and a renewable energy study presentation. LA-MN Director Tammy was pleased with Lutheran participation. Many non-faith participants notably commented that they didn’t realize church people cared for the environment.

Bishop’s Breakfast with State Legislators: Though primarily about meeting and relationship building, the bishops also shared Lutheran Social Service (LSS) and LA-MN overlapping concerns related to the Homeless Youth Act and the Homes for All with legislators. Each bishop had a special role during the day, in leading prayer to open of the senate session, opening with prayer for day’s different events, or speaking at a press conference.

Pastor’s Day of Advocacy: The joint LSS and LA-MN event of 30+ pastors and parishioners included briefings on housing, homelessness, youth homelessness, advocacy, a Homeless Youth Act press conference, and visits with legislators. LSS and LA-MN plan to make it an annual event.

Homeless Youth Act Press Conference: Bishop Anderson served as emcee, while Bishop Aitkenshared about the LSS Duluth Homeless Youth Project. House and senate bill authors spoke, and a pastor shared about how churches can help. LSS intern, Ebony, shared her success story of becoming homeless by age 15, landing in an LSS shelter, and now getting a Masters of Social Work.

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Nevada

Rev. Mike Patterson, Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy Nevada https://leanforjustice.wordpress.com/

“Ashes to Go” at the Nevada Legislature: The Rev. Mike Patterson offered “Ashes to Go” inside the legislative building. Patterson blessed about 50 legislators and legislative staff. “Ashes to Go” is an Ash Wednesday practice of offering in a public place a brief liturgy and the mark of the cross on the forehead with ashes that has gained popularity. “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” is the phrase with which we begin the season of Lent. Saying “remember you are dust and to dust you shall return” to a politician may sound like the stuff of stand-up comedy, but it is both encouraging and humbling to learn that elected officials came to be blessed.

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New Jersey

Sara Lilja, New Jersey Synod

logm@njsynod.org

Poverty on the rise in N.J.: New Jersey’s official poverty rate obscures the true scope of the current economic struggle in New Jersey because of the state’s cost of living. An income of 200 percent of the federal poverty level comes closer to the actual income needed to meet basic needs. One in four New Jersey residents is struggling, and this percentage of the population is rising! The governor released his 2016 budget this past week, with seemingly no new plans as to address this growing concern.

Income woes: The state’s high long-term unemployment rate and slow job growth mean that this is still a difficult time for many middle- and low-income families. The Lutheran Office of Governmental Ministry is working to promote policies like restoration of the Earned Income Tax Credit, earned sick days, and food programs to help reduce the pain of this difficult economic situation.

Working for change: We work diligently to change the landscape of the criminal justice system. Currently we are advocating for new regulations on the use of solitary confinement in New Jersey’s jails and prisons.

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New Mexico

Ruth Hoffman, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry – New Mexico

www.lutheranadvocacynm.org

Bishop’s Legislative Luncheon: The 2015 Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM Bishop’s Legislative Luncheon & Issues Briefing was held on Feb. 10 in Santa Fe. Advocates gathered at Christ Lutheran Church to hear more about interest rate caps for storefront loans and hunger in New Mexico. Bishop Gonia talked about advocates as “Stewards of the Divine Zoom Paradox.” At the luncheon, 150 Lutheran and ecumenical/interfaith advocates were in attendance. State Sen. Peter Wirth was recognized as “Legislator of the Year” for his many years of good work on fair tax policy. Carlos Navarro, long-time Bread for the World volunteer, received the Chris & John NM2 Haaland Advocacy Award. Following the luncheon, a number of advocates visited the state Capitol to speak with their legislators.

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Pennsylvania

Amy Reumann, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania

www.lutheranadvocacypa.org

State budget: In February, LAMPa staff, as part of the Coalition for Fair Education Funding, met with the governor’s office and legislative leaders ahead of Gov. Tom Wolf’s inaugural budget address to unveil the coalition’s proposed funding formula. The student-driven formula would direct resources to students and districts with the greatest needs and calls for approximately $3.6 billion in new state investments in public education to be phased in over six to eight years.

School breakfast: LAMPa is also gearing up for National School Breakfast Week with partners in the Pa. School Breakfast Challenge. Relationships built through other work enabled us to bring the Pa. State Education Association to the table around child hunger. They have agreed to promote school breakfast through the statewide challenge and teacher training and have invited LAMPa to school breakfast participation at their annual leadership meeting. In addition, LAMPa and PSEA have both been named to the board of Hunger-Free Lancaster County, which is working through Feeding America with the goal of being the first county in the nation to end the meal gap by 2018.

Housing: Staff also met with the chairman of the House Urban Affairs Committee to encourage his support for expanding the state Housing Trust Fund. Subsequently, a favorable Senate bill was introduced in February and is expected to move out of committee the first week of March. Amy preached and taught at St. James, Gettysburg, to start a Lenten program focused on hunger.

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Virginia

Marco Grimaldo, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy

www.virginiainterfaithcenter.org

40 bills in 45 days: Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy worked on more than 40 bills over the course of this 45-day legislative session. All of our major legislation was killed early in the process – some never survived subcommittee. The good news is that we successfully countered anti-immigrant legislation and defeated a bill that would have made the process of executions in Virginia a secret, not even subject to discovery in a court of law. We made some modest gains on the budget, including a bill that will provide school-age children access to an additional $100 from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families for use on school supplies and clothes.

Immigration: Implementation of the DACA/DAPA program for undocumented immigrants is on hold but we are continuing to work on building a strong network to educate potential applicants. We have been working with LIRS at the request of our two bishops to help reach former Rep. Frank Wolf to help weigh in with Virginia Republicans about immigration and that work is ongoing.

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Washington

Paul Benz, Faith Action Network

www.fanwa.org

Legislative session: The public conversation on revenue and the state budget is just beginning. Our state Supreme Court decision, requiring full funding of K-12 public education, is hanging over the Legislature’s head. In terms of Faith Action Network’s (FAN) legislative agenda, some of our key policy bills are: reducing wage theft, increasing our minimum wage, Breakfast After the Bell (increasing school breakfast participation), lifting the prohibition on providing post-secondary education in our state prison system, Family Unity Act (reducing ICE detainers and deportations), preventing human trafficking, and better state regulations to prevent oil train disasters

Faith-based organizing: FAN just completed four legislative forums around our state with good attendance. We are pleased to announce that FAN’s 2015-2016 ELCA intern has been selected and will begin her work in late August. We are also grateful to the ELCA for being approved to be a Horizon Site. FAN participated in and helped coordinate an interfaith press conference recently at a Hindu temple north of Seattle where a hate-crime occurred.

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Wisconsin

Cindy Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin

www.loppw.org

Proposed biennial budget: Funding has been proposed for trafficked youth and six of our bishops sent a letter to Wisconsin legislators and the governor supporting it. Additional financial support for mental health services and transitional jobs has also been proposed. We are challenged by the enormous cuts that would impact education, seniors, people with disabilities and our environment.

Right to work: The senate passed a bill prohibiting as a condition of employment membership in labor organizations. LOPPW was quoted in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on the subject. LOPPW’s Statement on Right to Work was edited and revised by the advisory council and Wisconsin bishops.

Safe harbor kickoff: LOPPW and Cherish All Children’s kickoff event drew more than 40 people. Local police and members of our task force led the conference. We wrote letters to legislators and Bishop Richard Hoyme of the ELCA Northwest Synod of Wisconsin blessed those letters.

Other advocacy: The director led a workshop at Midvale Community Lutheran Church in Madison. For information about our rally on human trafficking visit: http://www.loppw.org/events/coming-soon

ELCA Advocacy

This weekend, thousands from across the United States and around the world will gather in Alabama for the 50^thanniversary of Bloody Sunday, the Selma-to-Montgomery march and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Along with civil rights activists, elected officials and faith leaders, some of our ELCA churchwide staff and young adult leaders will travel from various parts of the country to attend events.

Today, we share with you some reflections from these ELCA leaders as they prepare to make the journey to Selma, including why they feel called to attend and what they hope to gain from this experience:

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Nathaniel Viets-VanLear, Chicago:

“Selma becomes important not as an observation of a moment in history but as a reminder that the past and present are only two parts of a continuum. Already steeped in the Black-lives-matter movement in Chicago, I travel to Selma to offer testament to the fact that a movement began long before I arrived on this earth, through the work of many young men and women before me. I want these streets, these structures, this history to flow through me as I walk through Selma, acting as a life-giving force that can only add more furor to all of the work that needs to be done. Like an empty cup, I plan to go to Selma ready to be as filled as possible. Growth is my only expectation. My biggest task will be opening my ears and mind to the lives and experiences of my elders past and present. I hope to be corrected, refined, and further ingrained as a leader toward positive change in our shared community.”

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Jackie Maddox, Washington, D.C.:

“I am attending for those who stood 50 years ago and were knocked down, beaten and humiliated because they wanted the right to have a voice. Those who were denied but never gave up. Fifty years later I want to stand for the people, including my parents, who struggled for me and are the reason why I and many others can vote today. Although the events that led up to having a right to vote were horrific, I will feel privileged to be among people who fought for justice and won.”

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Ryan Martin-Yates, Oklahoma City, Okla.:

“This trip is an important moment in time for me. I’ve grown up always oriented toward seeking justice, but only recently have I found the bravery to use my voice in that. This past year has been a year of growth that has been facilitated by what has gone on in this country and how those events began to affect my daily life. I currently live in Oklahoma, a place dealing with underlying racial prejudice that’s perpetuated by places of faith, and I soon realized it was time for me to step up and use my voice. Once I began to see a lack of empathy for people who were hurting, I knew I could no longer be submissive. I’ve been walking alongside fellow people of color here at the university who are seeking more from our school in the way of dialogue about race. I belong to a family whose struggle to survive in this country is directly tied to systematic injustice against people of color, and I’m not OK with that anymore. For me, this weekend is a moment to reflect on a powerful moment in our country’s history and to engage in dialogue about how the fight for justice is to keep moving 50 years later.

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Mark Carlson, Sacramento, Calif.:

“I went to the 40th anniversary of Selma in 2005 to honor my father, a Lutheran pastor and voice for racial justice, who was not able to march in 1965 as he hoped; as well as for his clergy colleagues who did. Fascinated by the extraordinary courage of so many who were dehumanized and the objects of terror and violence, another pilgrimage was just something I had to do. I returned for the 45^th and am going again to learn, to listen, to walk, worship, sing, and to be nourished and inspired as I remember the sacrifices and recommit to resist racism and violence. This time it is more personal. My mother, Rosemary, who is now in her last days under hospice care, asked me if I had been to Selma while we were watching the Oscars performance of “Glory” from the movie “Selma.” Since my 2010 trip, I learned that her great-grandfather and his brother, who served in the 8^th Wisconsin Infantry, had been in Montgomery and Selma 150 years ago, mustering out in nearby Demopolis in 1865. I also continue to wonder why we are not in a better place with race relations, poverty, violence, the criminal justice system, voting rights and voter participation, after my ancestors went through hell, as did those who endured and gave so much those 50 years ago. Selma 2015 will point the way to a better place, with God’s help.”

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Natalie Young, Chicago:

“This trip is important to me as a person of color whose father grew up in the south (Mississippi) during the civil rights movement. I am 30 years old and identify as multiethnic and am always baffled when my peers do not show up at the polls and vote! I think that people in my generation and younger sometimes forget the struggle that our elders went through so that we could live the way we do today. I saw the movie “Selma” with my family and was reminded how recently these events occurred in our history. The film gave a certain humanness to the iconic civil rights leaders that we learned about in school and made me realize that great leaders have to start somewhere!”

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Judith Roberts, Chicago:

“My grandfather, CC Bryant of McComb, Miss., testified before the U.S. Civil Rights Commission in February 1965. His testimony, along with several others, named the racial discrimination and intimidation experienced by African Americans trying to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Today, we are still facing voter disenfranchisement through public policies in the form of preserving state’s rights (e.g. voter ID legislation and the criminal justice system that can temporarily or permanently deny access to the ballot). This moment in our current history is about lifting up the values of living in an electoral democracy – where every citizen should have the right to cast a ballot for the elected officials that will represent their communities. This church adopted a social statement policy to ensure just that.”

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We pray for our ELCA leaders and all those who gather in Selma this weekend. We will continue to bring photos and stories from the events, as well as reflections after the anniversary celebration.

Megan Brandsrud

The Honduran government declared a national state of emergency upon the recent mass return of Hondurans, specifically children, who are being sent back from Mexico and the United States. The assistance of several civil society and humanitarian organizations has been requested to provide accompaniment during the reception of the returning children.

Lutheran Disaster Response is working with Mennonite Social Action Commission (CASM) to help provide humanitarian assistance to 1,000 returning child migrants. Immediate attention will be given to helping the children reunite with their families and to accompany them through the legal process of filing complaints in cases that involve human trafficking, sex trafficking and physical and psychological violence. Food and hygiene kits will be distributed to children as they are received and while they stay in temporary shelters waiting to be reunited with family. Psychosocial support will also be provided, and special accompaniment will occur for cases that merit extra attention.

Each child’s well-being is the primary concern, and necessary support will be provided to ensure a safe reunion for the children and their families.

John B. Johnson, Program Director, Domestic Policy

Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left.—One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23 32; 39-43)

The penitent thief and second chances

Luke’s account of the crucifixion of Jesus on the cross with two other “criminals” intrigues me. When I read this Gospel, I find myself wondering about the man who made it to paradise with Jesus that day. Because of his penitence and faith, Jesus gives him a second chance for redemption and for paradise.

I think two of the most important sentences in the English language are I’m sorry and thank you.Lent is a time of penitence and forgiveness. The penitent thief’s story is, for me, one of the all-time best “second chances.” I like second chances—and throughout my career, I certainly have needed them. Second chances are part of our national character in everything from bankruptcy for businesses or individuals, to youth who make mistakes and find themselves in the juvenile justice system. Individually or as a society, offering a second chance is a Gospel value.

One of my heroes—who I had the pleasure of meeting in person (and I even bought him a Coca-Cola)—is former Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who said, “No one is beyond redemption.” Forgiveness is more for us than it is for the one who may sin against us.

The opportunity to serve the ELCA in our Washington, DC Advocacy Office as the Program Director of Domestic Policy feels like a second chance for me because I served in a similar capacity with the Episcopal Church some years ago. I left that job for new opportunities and experiences that were both wonderful, challenging and no-so-great. What those experiences taught me, however, was that I was “operating outside of my call.” Getting back to faith-based advocacy is a great blessing for me and I love that I have an opportunity to bring second chances into my professional work.

Second Chance Reauthorization Act and Smarter Sentencing Act

Criminal justice reform is becoming a passion of mine in large measure because of my faith in redemption and second chances. In the last Congress, several promising bi-partisan bills were introduced that would reduce the US prison population, reduce mandatory minimum requirements for non-violent drug offences and improve reentry services to reduce recidivism for the formerly incarcerated. The Second Chance Reauthorization Act and the Smarter Sentencing Act are two key opportunities to reform our criminal justice system in the US.

The Second Chance Act was signed into law by George W. Bush in 2009, this legislation provides federal resources to states for reentry programs, but could do more through the reauthorization process with a number of enhancements directed at incarcerated young people—including additional mentoring programs, transitional services, and new granting opportunities.
The Smarter Sentencing Act makes incremental reform that allows federal judges to appropriately sentence certain non-violent drug offenders below existing mandatory minimum sentences. The bill provides federal judges some case-by-case review of each offender to prevent overly harsh sentencing. Finally, the bill refocuses the resulting savings into crime and recidivism prevention programs and improves transparency through public access to statutory and regulatory criminal provisions.

When legislative action begins in earnest on these important reform opportunities, I hope Lutherans and all of our Christian brothers and sisters will find their voice and call on our Senators, Representatives and the President to pass these bills.

Thank you for the opportunity to reflect and to share the ministry of advocacy with so many of you. May you have a good and reflective Lent.

Ellen Rothweiller–Ames, IA

Warm-up Question

Have you ever experienced the destruction of a place that held emotional significance for you; A home, church, school or city? What was that like and how was it different than the loss of a person?

Rebuilding Detroit

The city of Detroit, MI is being rebuilt. Many new businesses are popping up in the downtown area and there are plans for a new streetcar line that will transport people from Downtown to Midtown. Some who fled the city are returning to be a part of the rebuilding of this great American city. There are signs of new life in Downtown Detroit, but areas outside the city center are still in decline. Housing is crumbling with many vacant buildings and lots. One part of the city booms while the rest continues to decline, making the chasm between rich and poor grow.

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Residents of these outlying areas argue that it will take more than just an infusion of money and industry in one part of Detroit to rebuild this city. Jocelyn Harris has lived in one of those “challenged” outer Detroit neighborhoods, about six miles east of downtown, all her life. “We used to have everything: department stores, grocery stores, all of it,” Harris said. “Now the sewage backs up, the park is locked, the school is closed. If we only had more repair dollars, people could have stayed here. It’s been a lot of fighting just to keep it like this.”

Developer Dan Gilbert has bought up more than 60 buildings in downtown Detroit and has been called everything from a missionary to a super hero-despite the fact that his company has been accused of aggressive sales practice. He and others insist that these pockets of wealth will succeed in rescuing the city and that this boom in economics will have a trickle-down effect on the more challenged areas of the city.

Many who care about the future of this city are working to rebuild it, but not all are in agreement on how that should happen. The decline of this city did not happen overnight, and neither will its rebirth.

Discussion Questions

What do you know about the decline of the city of Detroit? How did it happen?
Do you agree more with Gilbert or Harris about the best way to rebuild Detroit?
How does greed play a role in this situation?
How does hope play a role in this situation?

Third Sunday in Lent

Exodus 20:1-17

1 Corinthians 1:18-25

John 2:13-22

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

This event, often described as Jesus’ cleansing of the temple, is included in all four Gospels so it is safe for us to assume that this is a key moment in Jesus’ ministry. The temple was a place of worship and also where the community gathered. It was the hub of the Jewish culture at that time with significant spiritual and emotional ties for many. The temple where this story takes place is the second temple. The first was destroyed by the Babylonians in 587 B.C.E. This second temple, constructed after the Jews returned to their land from exile in Babylonia in 539 B.C.E. was leveled by the Romans in 70 C. E. and never rebuilt.

We know that Jesus was not referring to the physical temple building, but his body in John 2:19-21, but those who heard his words that day may have felt that he was threatening to destroy this holy and significant place once again, just to prove a point!

Just as the Jews had suffered the loss of their temple and homeland, many in Detroit are feeling the loss of their city. Jesus’ claim that he could rebuild the temple in three days may have been received with the same offense that many are taking from the “trickle-down” economics being applied in Detroit. It was in part greed that got Jesus so mad about the money changers in the temple. Greed can be a powerful force in a culture and in a city and can play a part in the destruction and rebuilding of temples old and new. Ultimately this story ends with the destruction and resurrection of the temple of Jesus’ body. That is where we must place our hope and trust.

Discussion Questions

What are some current examples of temples that have been destroyed? (twin towers, etc.)
Why might it be important to rebuild those temples?
How might it be idolatrous to be so bound to a physical place?

Activity Suggestions

Google two sides of this story: “rebuilding Detroit” and “decline of Detroit”. Compare and contrast the stories told.
Brainstorm buildings or neighborhoods in your area that are being rebuilt. Talk to someone involved in that process and see what you can learn about that process. Was there a meeting of social and economic resources for this project? How is that working?

Closing Prayer

Dear Lord, we thank you for your church, a place where we can gather in community. We pray for this community and for the community of Detroit. Heal what is broken in these places and people. Give us the courage to put our hope and trust in you, and not in the physical things of this world. Amen

Megan Brandsrud

On Jan. 16, Tropical Cyclone Chedza hit the southwestern part of Madagascar in the Menabe and Melaky regions. Heavy rainfalls followed, which caused severe flooding in most parts of the country. Approximately 174,000 people were affected by the disaster, and 80 people died.

Lutheran Disaster Response has committed an initial $35,000 and is working with the Malagasy Lutheran Church to assist 1,000 families in Morondava and Mahabo communities who were affected by the cyclone and flooding. Assistance will be for urgent food and non-food items, as well as psychosocial support. Food being distributed consists of rice, oil and beans, and non-food materials include blankets and hygiene items. Attention for distribution will be toward those who are most vulnerable, specifically families who are displaced, people with disabilities, elderly parents and female heads of households. The church will be working with people to provide support and disaster-risk training to help increase the resiliency of the communities.

Please join us in praying for the people in Madagascar who have been affected by the severe weather. We also pray for continued safety and preparedness as the cyclone season continues in the region. If you would like to support Lutheran Disaster Response’s work in Madagascar, please visit the Lutheran Disaster Response giving page.

Rachel Williams, Legislative Intern

In the State of the Union speech last month, President Obama reaffirmed his priorities and his interest on passing trade agreements with Asia and the European Union. These agreements, he claimed, would “protect our workers, protect our environment and open new markets to new goods stamped ‘Made in the USA.'” Announcing his intentions, the President is now looking to Congress to help pass three main pieces of legislation, including:

Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) – the authority of the President to negotiate trade agreements from Congressional approval. It is a technique which has been used to block opportunities for dissenting members of Congress to amend or filibuster an agreement.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership Act (TPP) – A trade agreement between 11 different countries in the Pacific Ocean Region. Congress and the public have not seen the trade agreement itself, making it difficult to know the final compromises and agreements.
The Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) – A trade agreement with European Union members.

Trade may at times seem insignificant, but it affects many aspects of our daily lives: from jobs, wages, and benefits, to international relations and global poverty. In light of the globalizing economy and reality of these new agreements, we must ask ourselves as people of faith, “will these policies help all of God’s people thrive?”

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America supports policies which help promote holistic economic growth, recognizing the value of raising families out of poverty and fostering a “sufficient, sustainable livelihood for all” (see the ELCA Statement on Economic Life). We believe that everyone should be able to support themselves and prosper within an economy.

Proponents of TPA support the trade agreements because it shows a united government during trade negotiations, creating stronger leverage in the trade talks. However, there is concerned about haste in passing these agreements. Some have indicated that there won’t be enough time to read the agreement, debate it, or know what agreements will actually be upheld in the final version. Opponents worry that, if written carelessly, agreements may continue to weaken standards that harm workers (both domestically and internationally), enable policies which harm the environment, and prey on marginalized communities for their resources. With that being said, strong trade policy can be a chance to create regulations that benefit both businesses and consumers.

The Church has acknowledged that what is in our interest must be placed in the context of what is good for the neighbor.When making decisions in the economic realm how our actions affect our neighbors must also be taken into consideration.Sudden shifts in globalized capital and financial markets can dramatically affect the economic well-being of millions of people, for good or for ill (ELCA statement on Economic Life).

Some Members of Congress have also explained how TPP and TTIP could be a chance to set high-standard trade rules for the international community. These trade agreements could create regulations that benefit both American businesses and consumers. Although TPP and TTIP can be a chance to create regulations that benefit both American businesses and consumers, terms of trade often work to the disadvantage of developing countries. Furthermore, benefits of trade agreements hinge on whether or not the countries signatory to them honor them as well whether there are ways to enforce the trade agreements.

Trade agreements are important reflections of our values as a country and can have a positive or detrimental effect on the daily lives of billions of people. With TPP agreements to finish in March, we will continue to support policies that are inclusive and protect marginalized populations. Trade agreements should give everyone a chance to thrive and create a livelihood can be an agreement we all can stand behind. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus brings good news to the poor and releases the captive. God executed justice for the oppressed. As followers of Christ, we must ensure that the actions of our government do not cause dire consequences to those with less power.

El reverendo Vásquez-Levy, pastor de la Iglesia Evangélica Luterana en América (ELCA, por sus siglas en inglés) será el decimosegundo presidente de la Escuela de Religión del Pacífico en Berkeley, California. Vásquez-Levy fue pastor universitario en la Universidad Luther en Decorah, Iowa, una de las 26 universidades y facultades de la ELCA. Vásquez-Levy es el primer luterano y latino en fungir como presidente de la Escuela de Religión del Pacífico y una de las cuatro personas de origen latino que sirven como presidentes de un seminario acreditado en EE.UU.

“Me siente muy emocionado de incorporarme a una comunidad que ha servido de avanzada para traer las buenas nuevas del Evangelio a problemas tan diversos como la igualdad de género, los derechos humanos, la paz y la justicia (y más) y que está posicionada para ser catalizadora de conversaciones ininterrumpidas que amplíen el espectro de las personas de fe y convicción que quieran unirse para moldear el futuro”, dijo Vásquez-Levy.

Obtuvo el título de Maestría en Teología por la Escuela Luterana de Teología en Chicago en 1995 y el Doctorado en Ministerio por la misma institución en 2001. Este es uno de los ocho seminarios de la ELCA. Vásquez-Ley es autor de varias publicaciones. También es un entregado promotor de políticas migratorias humanitarias. Después de la redada migratoria de 2008 en Postville, Iowa, Vásquez-Levy fue uno de los directores del equipo de Ayuda Humanitaria de Postville. Ha prestado sus servicios como asesor en dos documentales sobre la redada, trabajó estrechamente con los Servicios Luteranos para la Inmigración y los Refugiados con sede en Baltimore, y participó en conversaciones en la Casa Blanca y en informes al Congreso sobre la redada en Postville y la inmigración.

“El presidente David Vásquez aportará fortaleza a la dirección estratégica de la Escuela de Religión del Pacífico con el fin de inspirar, capacitar y sostener a líderes con base espiritual que estén a favor del cambio social”, explicó David Tiede, presidente emérito del Seminario Luther en St. Paul, Minnesota, y ex presidente interino de la Universidad Luther.

Amanda Straw es alumna de la Universidad DePauw en Greencastle, Indiana, y sigue estudios de licenciatura en escritura en inglés. Está prestando sus servicios como interna de la organización nacional de la ELCA.

Bob Chell–Sioux Falls, SD

Warm-up Question

What has been the happiest day of your life? What made it so? Does it give you any insight into how to achieve happiness in the future? Is happiness the goal or key to a fulfilling life? If not, what is?

Losing to Gain

Paul Dolan, a professor who studies happiness suggests there is a disconnect between what we think and how we feel. Sometimes the things we think will make us happy do not. Perhaps the person you’ve crushed on for months has returned your interest but over time you realize you miss other friends, hobbies or even your ‘old self.’ Dolan suggests we pay attention to what makes us happy on a daily basis. His formula for happiness suggests we organize our lives around those things which give us pleasure and purpose.

Discussion Questions

How would you rate the following in their ability to provide pleasure and purpose to your life;

Things
Experiences
Relationships
Faith

Does the time and energy you spend focusing on these areas reflect which you value most and which you value least?
What is it that gives meaning to life? Happiness, Peace, Power, Faith, Love, Work, something else? Why?
Professor Dolan doesn’t mention faith in this article on achieving happiness. Does meaning come from deep within ourselves or from something outside and beyond ourselves?

Second Sunday in Lent

Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16

Romans 4:13-25

Mark 8:31-38

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

He was 30 years old when he came into the prison where I am pastor. He will become eligible for parole when he is 65. He will complete his sentence when he is 100 years old. One could easily say he has ‘lost his life.’ His life is routine and regimented, each day much like the last. On holidays he, like everyone else, is locked in his cell all day because shops are closed and so more staff can have the holiday off. He earns 25¢ an hour at his prison job. There are four men for every job, so he is happy to be working. The money can only be spent at the prison commissary where prices are high and selection is severely limited. One popular item, Ramen noodles, costs 37¢ each.

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Here is what he has told me about coming to prison.

“This is the best thing that ever happened to me.”

“Coming to prison saved my life.”

“I lost everything to gain everything.”

If you are skeptical about this I don’t blame you. I would be too if I didn’t see his smile when he says these things. If I didn’t witness how he lives his life day to day. He came into the prison unfamiliar with the Christian faith. He was baptized a year ago and serves on the church council for our prison congregation now. His faith dwarfs my own and his sense of inner peace is astounding to me.

Discussion Questions

This man lost his life because of his crime not for Jesus’ sake, do these verses about losing your life to save it apply to him?
Is a cross something we freely choose or something that happens to us?
What is the cross in your life today? Are you carrying it or nailed to it? Explain.

Activity Suggestions

Ask someone you trust and respect what gives meaning and purpose to their life? What is one piece of advice they would give to someone looking for meaning purpose and happiness in life.
Imagine the prisoner described above could have lived one hour of your life last week. What hour would he choose? (My answer is below. Read it after you decide on your answer.)
How would you answer someone younger who asked you the key to happinessn life, success in High School, or inner peace?My answer: As a prison pastor I’ve come to realize I know 700 plus men who would relish the day to day tasks I dislike. I thought of it this week when, running late, I realized I had snow to shovel before leaving home. To me, an hour of cold, hard work and inconvenience. To the men I serve; an hour outdoors, an hour alone, an hour of quiet and peace, an hour to relish the beauty of gently falling snow, cold wind on their cheeks and the tired feeling of well used muscles.

Closing Prayer

Jesus, open our eyes to the hiddenness of your kingdom. To joy in hard work, meaning in loss and peace in the midst of turmoil. Amen.

March 15, 2015 Sight Lines

ELCA State Advocacy Update: March 2015

Looking ahead to the 50th anniversary of the Selma-to-Montgomery voting-rights march

Nathaniel Viets-VanLear, Chicago:

Jackie Maddox, Washington, D.C.:

Ryan Martin-Yates, Oklahoma City, Okla.:

Mark Carlson, Sacramento, Calif.:

Natalie Young, Chicago:

Judith Roberts, Chicago:

Honduras: Support for returning child migrants

Lenten Reflection: The penitent thief and second chances

March 8, 2015– Rebuilding Detroit

Madagascar: Tropical Cyclone Chedza and severe flooding

Will TPA, TPP and TTIP create “Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All?”

Nombran a Vásquez-Levy presidente de la Escuela de Religión del Pacífico

March 1, 2015–Losing to Gain