Dear LWML Leaders,

Confidence in Christian leadership is being grounded in the Word.

Leaders Are Imitators of Christ

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:1–2).

Recently during a children’s sermon, the pastor’s three-year-old son sat beside him, imitating his father’s hand gestures as he spoke and trying to recite his father’s words to the other children present. There was quiet laughter from the congregation, but what a beautiful illustration of the Lord’s words to us from Ephesians. As leaders, we strive to imitate God’s every action, shown to us by our brother and Savior Jesus. We should constantly be aware of opportunities to recite Jesus’ words of love and salvation to all of those around us.

We should also acknowledge that our leadership role brings responsibility with it. Paul says we are to “walk in love” with others around us, just as Christ does with us. Sometimes that journey is one of a mentor — gently advising those who look to us for guidance. Sometimes our stroll is one of teacher — sharing knowledge about our Lord through Bible study and information about our organization and how it works. Sometimes we travel together in the role of servants — washing the feet of those who walk with us and giving of ourselves to others as Jesus would. All these interactions begin, continue, and end with prayer, using words that God has promised to provide so our faith and the faith of those who walk with us may grow and God will be glorified. May we all be a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God!

God's Blessings,

2021–2023 Group and Leader Development Committee Members
Christina Bean
Elaine Engelman
Jennifer Gierke
Brianne Stahlecker, Chairman
Marie Chow, Vice President of Organizational Resources, advisory