For a Time Such as This
Casey Carlson
Assistant to the President: LCEF
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, “For a Time Such as This” is a phrase that I have not only heard throughout this COVID-19 pandemic, but also one that I have often used myself. It is indeed an apt phrase when looking at the world around us and the uncertainty that abounds. However, without proper context and a right framing, that phrase, like us lost sinful sheep, can go wayward quickly. How might the world frame this phrase, “For a time such as this…
…we will despair and lose hope.”
… we fear for ourselves and our future”
…we will become divided and isolated.”
…the Devil will take hold…and win.”
The great news is, we have a God that, in good times and bad, is here for us For a Time Such as This. Yes!! God did not simply wave His mighty hand to create all things and then leave the building. His promises are that He will be with us until the end of the age, and especially for a time such as this. From Joshua 1:9:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
God does all things well and He is surely with His church and people during this time. I have seen first-hand how He has equipped His people to be resilient and creative in getting the Word out in new ways, He has gifted His people with generous hearts, and connected us in ways not thought possible just a few months ago.
God also created us for His good purposes for a Time Such as This. We are unified as one body in Christ, no matter what happens to us, we will always have that in common. We are called to build and lift one another up, up not only in spirit, but, when the needs are great, God calls His people to be cheerful givers.
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:7-8
I pray that as you are able to give during these times, that you cheerfully give to your congregation, knowing God will use those gifts for His good purposes, For a Time Such as This!
Also know this, your ministry partners at Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF), and the LCMS exist For a Time Such as This as well. LCEF is blessed to partner with the LCMS to provide financial assistance through our Synod’s Soldiers of the Cross Amplified program to church workers (both called and lay). LCEF immediately distributed $1,000,000 to the districts and together, LCEF and the LCMS seek to raise $5 million dollars for Soldiers of the Cross Amplified, purely to address the needs of church workers facing a crisis. The need is urgent. If you feel called to support the Soldiers of the Cross Amplified COVID-19, please click the following link:
The Missouri District stands ready to serve and walk alongside you For a Time Such as This. If you or a church worker you know might benefit from this program, please contact Peter Krege at the Missouri District office at Peter.Krege@mo.lcms.org or call 314 590-6220 to find out more information.
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, I pray that For a Time Such as This you find peace and joy in the promises of our Lord and Savior, as God richly blesses us, may you find joy in being a cheerful giver of His gifts, and if this message finds you in hardship, know that you are in our prayers, and may the gifts of His people lift you up in this time of need.
Stay healthy our dear friends in Christ, go out and serve with joy!