REFLECTIONS ON THE ANNUAL MEETING
 IN MINNEAPOLIS - JULY 2001
by Debbie Speights

For the past five years or so as I have returned to Charlotte from wherever the Annual Meeting had been held I recall being on a "spiritual high" as I boarded the plane. Despite crowded airports, long waiting lines, delayed or even cancelled flights, my primary focus was reflecting on the events of the past several days. This year’s return trip was certainly no exception. The theme that was chosen by the Minnesota Lutheran Via de Cristo for this year’s Annual Meeting "He Will Raise You Up" proved to be both fitting and prophetic.

It would be impossible in this writing to enlist each face-to-face encounter with Christ through a brother or sister in Christ; each event that provided a clearer picture of who we are as a community of believers; each worship opportunity that enabled us to sing His praises and partake of the gift of His body and blood. I am constantly amazed how God, in His infinite wisdom and love for His children, affords us with countless opportunities to raise each other up and in so doing lifts us to new heights—soaring as eagles.

To the countless number of people that came together for the sole purpose of humbling themselves as servants we express our gratitude: To the entire Host Committee from the Minnesota Lutheran Via de Cristo for their collective efforts as a team taking care of our every need--transportation, food, lodging, inspiring worship opportunities, Christian fellowship and much, much more; to those who led us on a journey from our humble beginnings, through our developmental years--sharing the history of our evolution into the National Lutheran Secretariat; to those who spent many hours planning and preparing for this year’s celebratory gathering; to those who have given of their time and talents not only during the Annual Meeting but throughout the year as well editing the newsletter, managing the website, writing educational materials; and, especially to those who came with a open, caring heart—eager to share, willing to learn and grateful to receive. Each one using his/her distinctive gifts in His service.

I love the analogy Max Lucado uses in his book In the Grip of Grace to describe a life of service:

" God has enlisted us in His navy and placed us on His ship. The boat has one purpose—to carry us safely to the other shore. This is no cruise ship; it’s a battleship. We aren’t called to a life of leisure; we are called to a life of service. Each of us has a different task. Some, concerned with those who are drowning, are snatching people from the water. Others are occupied with the enemy, so they man the cannons of prayer and worship. Still others devote themselves to feeding and training the crewmembers. Though different we are the same. Each can tell of a personal encounter with the captain, for each has received a personal call…We each followed Him across the gangplank of His grace onto the same boat. There is one captain and one destination. Though battle is fierce, the boat is safe, for our captain is God. The ship will not sink. For that, there is no concern."