Lutherans throughout the world gathered [in 2017] to commemorate the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation. It’s in moments like these that I believe we have the opportunity to look both inward and outward, finding ourselves drawn to questions surrounding identity and purpose. We ask ourselves questions about our journey as a global Lutheran family: Where have we come from, and what does God have in store for us next?

For 500 years, our journey of inquiry has been reflected in the liberation we find in Christ, recipients of God’s abundant love and grace, which have been poured out freely for all to receive. As Lutherans, we are bound to the cross, centered in and always returning to Christ.

Excerted from, Listen, God is Calling, Part 1;Kristen L. Opalinski, Living Lutheran, February, 2018. Kristen is the manager for ecumenical and inter-religious relations for the ELCA.

Listen, God is Calling 

Refrain

      Listen,

listen, God is calling, through the Word inviting,

      offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

      (Listen,)

listen, God is calling, through the Word inviting,

      offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

1    (Jesus gave his mandate:)

      share the good news

      (that he came to save us)

      and set us free.  Refrain