My steps do not always go where my mind would like them to go. Do you know what I mean? God does. “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (Proverbs 16:9 NASB).
After reading books by Tom Dooley (the physician, not the cowboy) in fifth grade, I decided to be a physician. My pastor who confirmed me often suggested I should think about going into the ministry. Every time, I said, “No.” My pastor during my teen and early college years often suggested I should think about going into the ministry. Every time, I said, “No.”
In 1982, I was ordained into the holy ministry!
In 1996, a gal by the name of Linda Bartlett called and asked if I would consider adding my name to the list of candidates being considered for the position of executive director of Lutherans For Life (LFL). At the time I was serving a vibrant congregation with a very enjoyable team ministry. My plan was to stay there. I said, “No.”
In April of 1996, I became executive director of Lutherans For Life!
I really did not know exactly what an executive director did, and I had no idea at all what the executive director of Lutherans For Life did. To paraphrase Luther’s sacristy prayer, had I been on my own, I would soon have brought everything to naught. For nearly 20 years since, God has been leading and directing the steps of Lutherans For Life, and I have been doing my best to keep up.
Much has changed. God led LFL from Benton, Arkansas, to Nevada, Iowa. He led LFL from a staff of two to the present staff of 11. As I recall, the budget in 1996 was measured in the thousands. The proposed budget for 2016 exceeds one million for the first time. God has consistently provided committed people to support the ministry of LFL year after year. God led LFL from producing a few good brochures to the production of hundreds of high-quality brochures and booklets. He has enabled us to produce a variety of curricula, DVDs, a well-respected website, and downloadable resources, and He has paved the way for the use of modern communication technology, including a variety of social media. (Some of the latter I still do not understand!)
Much has not changed. God used dedicated, life-affirming people on the frontlines from the very beginning of LFL, and He still uses them mightily. People in leadership positions when I started are still in leadership positions, and their zeal and love for God’s gift of life has not abated. They continue to amaze me. And God is raising up a new generation of young people zealous For Life and with a desire to take action and make a difference. They amaze me too. LFL’s future looks good.
I retire at the end of this year thanking God for leading and directing the steps of LFL. I thank God for all of you faithful readers and supporters. I thank Him for my successor, Rev. Michael W. Salemink, who came on staff in August. He is very gifted and has much to offer, and God will lead him as well.
What are my plans for retirement? Actually, I decided to have no plans. God will change them anyway! To Him be the glory!