LEAven Blog

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things… And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8–9).

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (II Corinthians 5:17).

These two passages beautifully frame the Lutheran Education Association: both where we stand today, from LEA’s inception, and where we are being called to go. As I begin my service as Executive Director, I do so with deep gratitude, humility, and hope—fully present in this moment and confident in God’s promise of continued renewal.

Being present is not merely a posture of attention; it is an act of faith. In Philippians, Paul calls us to focus our minds on what is grounded in God’s truth and goodness. For Lutheran schools and ministries, this presence means attending faithfully to the students, families, teachers, and leaders entrusted to us right now. It means listening well, serving attentively, and recognizing that God is already at work in our classrooms, chapel services, congregations, offices, and communities.

At the same time, II Corinthians reminds us that in Christ we can learn, and much of that comes from embracing our past. Lutheran education stands firmly on the unchanging truth of the Gospel, yet it is always being made new by the Holy Spirit. As part of the LCMS, we confess Christ crucified and risen as the center of all teaching and learning. This confession frees us to innovate boldly—not for innovation’s sake, but so that the Gospel may be proclaimed clearly and effectively to new generations, and even beyond our country and to the entire world.

Starting anew does not mean abandoning our heritage; it means stewarding it faithfully. Lutheran school ministry has always been about serving—serving students with academic excellence grounded in Christ, serving families with care and partnership, and serving the Church by forming disciples who are thoughtful, faithful, and engaged in God’s world. That mission remains unchanged, even as the context around us continues to shift.

In this season of LEA, sustainability and growth are not opposing goals; they are faithful responses to God’s call. Sustainability ensures that Lutheran education remains strong for generations to come. Growth—spiritual, relational, and institutional—reflects trust in God’s promise that His Word does not return empty. Together, they invite us to think creatively, plan wisely, and support one another fully as Christian educators and leaders.

True and full support for those serving in Lutheran education is essential. Teachers, administrators, pastors, and staff carry holy responsibilities, often with quiet sacrifice. Within the Lutheran Education Association, we are committed to walking alongside you—advocating, equipping, encouraging, and strengthening your work in the name of Christ. You are not alone. You are part of a community bound together by grace, confession, and shared purpose.

As we move forward, may we remain present—attentive to God’s peace and purpose—and open to the new thing He is doing among us. Grounded in our faith, centered on Christ, and guided by the Spirit — we step into this chapter together with confidence and hope!

We Pray: Gracious and loving God, You call us to be present where You have placed us and bold in following where You lead. We thank You for the gift of Lutheran education and, specifically, today for the Lutheran Education Association. We include each of the faithful servants who teach, lead, and support it, and for the students whose lives are shaped by Your Word. As we begin anew in this year of our Lord 2026, renew our minds to dwell on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy. Grant us wisdom for innovation, strength for service, vision for growth, and faithfulness for sustainability. Surround all Christian educators with true and full support, encouragement, and peace. Keep us rooted in Christ, confident in Your promises, and united in Your mission. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.