Our Savior Lutheran Church and School

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Hello, I’m Pastor Chris. I was born in 1995, started high school in 2009, graduated from high school in 2013, graduated from college in 2017, had my year of vicarage cut short by COVID-19, learned what ‘Zoom’ was, graduated from Seminary in 2021, and was called to serve here at Our Savior in July of 2021. My birth year does a few things: It tells you how old I am, and it pigeonholes me into a category talked about by many different social scientists.

Being born in 1995 puts me right on the edge of being a millennial and being a part of Gen Z. In one sense, I didn’t have internet in my family home growing up, but we did have a computer on which we could play Pajama Sam or Freddy the Fish, as long as we were in the family room where the computer was. I didn’t have a cellphone until high school, and only got a flip phone when I was a freshman. I got a ‘smartphone’ when I was a junior. Ever since then, I’ve had a smarter and smarter phone. I never really thought too much about it, until I looked back, and now have read The Anxious Generation, and look around schools and see what Jonathan Haidt calls, “The Great Rewiring of Childhood.” In this article, I want to take a look at this great rewiring, and look at the ways that Haidt thinks we can buck the trends that are alarming for the Gen Z generation and generations to come.

*Disclaimer. Haidt is not a Christian. He is a social psychologist. He has looked at the trends and the numbers and the mental health of many, did his research and has shared some incredible insights to help change mental health issues, and heal many of the mental health issues.

In the first part of his book, Haidt shares about a tidal wave of mental illness that has struck not just the US, but the world in the 2000s, especially from 2010-2015 . From 2010 to 2020, the amount of major depression of teens for girls has raised to 30% of teens; an increase of 145% since 2010. For boys; almost 12%, a rise of 161% since 2010. This comes from a rise of anxiety from many different sources, but Haidt’s main reason for this rise of anxiety, is the rise of the prevalence of cell phones, social media, and the staggering amount of screen usage. In a 2015 report, by Pew research, 1 of 4 teens said they were “almost constantly” on their screens. In 2022, that number jumped to 46%. These numbers are startling. In this regard, play-based childhood has bowed out to screen-based childhood.

One of the ways Haidt explains it, caught me off-guard. “It’s as if we gave our infants iPads loaded with movies about walking, but the movies were so engrossing that kids never put in the time or effort to practice walking.” Screens of any kind have become a main focus of mental illness, anxiety, and unnecessary additional frustrations and stress. Studies have even shown that even a phone being in the same room as a student raises their anxiety level. In a world where parents are more cautious and protective of their children, this quote from Haidt raises some important questions: “…we are overprotecting our children in the real world while under protecting them online.” Haidt calls for waiting to give phones, social media, and internet access. Did you know that Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok actually have contracts that say their users must be at least 13? Many youths have them earlier than that, and phones have no age restriction or limit, but simply having a phone and access to the entire internet can cause struggles and harm for people of all ages. Before smartphones, in 2006, if you wanted to use the internet you had to have a computer that had to have a desk to sit on. Now, you just have to have a phone and a charger, and you have access to as much information, and searching as you want.

Play changed in the early 2000s. Play changed when smartphones came out. Play has changed. And now, kids don’t have to go to a friends’ house to see them, or talk, or play. They can simply log on; Childhood play has changed. Childhood has changed. The age of ‘childhood’ ending has gone lower and lower. Kids need to be kids. Kids don’t need to be scrolling through their phones to play or talk to friends like they’re a businessman in his 40s or 50s. Kids need play. That great rewiring changed play in the 2000s. Play-based childhood has been replaced by phone-based childhood, and the research shows this is not for the better.

Haidt sees 4 foundational harms. Social deprivation. Sleep Deprivation. Attention Fragmentation. Addiction. Kids aren’t socially where they used to be or where they need to be. Kids aren’t sleeping like they should, and they are falling asleep or getting sick and not going to school. Attention spans are shorter than ever. Have you tried taking an iPad away from a kid who is locked into it? They’re addicted. They fight, they scream, you are taking away their whole world. Haidt also shares information that girls are far more susceptible to social upset by this, whereas boys are simply retreating to their screens and not focusing on the world around them.

Ultimately Haidt lays out startling and alarming facts. One, was the fact that many kids (under the age of 13) spend almost 20-30 hours on screens a week: that’s a part time job! The fact that in a world where we have so many concerns and struggles, those are expedited and increased by screens. There’s a lot to look at this that feels very “end of the world.” And if that is the case, we should just give kids phones at 5 and let them fend for themselves. I don’t think any of us feel that way. Haidt gives several ideas, plans, and thoughts on what could be done to change this struggle moving forward.

“More (and better) experiences in the real world.” This means optimizing time that we have. This means as adults checking our own phone habits. Giving kids time out of your sight without a way to reach you. Afterschool is for free play, play without a screen!

“Less (and better) experience on screens.” Limit screen usage. Avoid using screens as pacifiers and babysitters. Turn off screens 30-60 minutes before bed. Use parental controls and content filters. Focus on more in-person activity and sleep than screens.

Let’s look at it this way. Screens and smartphones can be great tools. But they are that: a tool. They aren’t meant to rule our lives. In fact, when screens and social media start to creep into the majority of lives for kids, it becomes nothing but harmful. Since the iPhone came out, this is just the norm. But if the norm is constantly hurting, causing anxiety, and struggles to children, maybe the norm isn’t the best.  How can we encourage a new norm and a hope for the next generations to get out of this mental health crisis? Make a change. Haidt gives 4 ways that could be a major help in mental health.

Let’s talk about screens.

Why I Give – by Nate Wagner

I was asked if I would share a quick testimony on why I give.

We understand that all we have comes from God, giving a portion of it back reflects gratitude for His blessings.

Also, we know that all of the things we currently possess are temporary. Possessions, money, our health, our time here on earth, it will all pass away.

To borrow from Martin Luther’s eulogy at the funeral of a friend, “I have held many things in my hands and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess.” I believe he was talking about putting things in God’s hands the things he knew he could not hold onto forever.

Recalling Luther reminds me that the things in life are subject to loss. But what is entrusted to God remains eternal and unshakeable. Amazing concept.

By giving I know I can help… Like supporting our own families, or our friends in need; when we give to the church and it’s missions, we’re doing our part to help spread the Gospel and the Lord’s message of love and fellowship.

We try to give humbly, quietly, always cheerfully, and return a portion of the blessings we’ve received. Knowing that a portion of what we give is a portion of ourselves, to help the mission, to reach those who need us and need the Word. What a blessing.

I consider Our Savior Church a blessing, it certainly has been in my life. I’ve been blessed to know and worship with people here. The friendships and fellowships we’ve have developed… I can’t tell you how much they mean to me. My own children received an excellent education and Christian foundation through OSL. And it’s so important to see this continue for the next generation and beyond. 

For those who have just discovered Christ, and for those who have had lifelong commitment in faith, what a blessing it is to give and support the mission of the church and school, and contribute together as we work to serve and support each other in Christian fellowship.

Ironically, we give to receive… We give because giving itself is its own reward. A true blessing.

I have certainly felt blessed.

Thank you.

Nate Wagner and his wife Sarah joined OSL in 2002. Their two children attended OSL and Sarah now works as a Teacher’s Aide to Kindergarten. Nate is currently on the Spiritual Life Team.

“Use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10

In 2006, my family and I went through one of the most challenging seasons of our lives. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I was not earning any income, and we faced the daunting reality of how to make ends meet. It was during this time that we experienced the true meaning of God’s provision through His hands and the hearts of His people.

Our church family became a tangible expression of God’s love and care. They did not just offer prayers—though their prayers uplifted us in ways words cannot fully capture—but they also gave sacrificially. Words of encouragement reminded us that we were not walking this journey alone. Each act of kindness was a testimony to God’s faithfulness and a reminder that He sees and meets every need.

This experience reinforced how we view giving. It showed us that giving is not just about money; it is about trust, obedience, and love. Our church family did not give because they had excess; they gave because they believed in the biblical principle that everything we have belongs to God, and He calls us to steward His blessings by blessing others.

When we reflect on why we give, we are reminded of 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”   Giving is not just a financial transaction; it is a declaration of our faith. It is saying, “Lord, we trust You to multiply what we give for Your kingdom’s work, and I trust You to meet our needs as well.”  A former OSL pastor, in reference to tithing always said. “Would you rather be blessed on the gross or net of your paycheck?”

To anyone wondering if their giving makes a difference: It does. We give because we want to honor the legacy of love and generosity that was poured into us. And we give because we know that our gifts, no matter the size, can be used by God to bring hope, healing, and encouragement to others. The blessings we receive everyday continue to ripple outward, shaping how we live, how we love, and how we give. For that, we are forever grateful.

Jim and his wife Sue have been members of OSL since 1998. Their three adult children all attended OSL.  Jim currently serves as the chairman of the Spiritual Life Team and sits on the Board of Directors.

Reflecting on why I give brings me back to my childhood, clutching small envelopes with a quarter inside each Sunday. As I dropped my envelope into the offering plate, the sound of the quarter clinking against the wood filled me with joy. This simple act, observed from my parents who also gave generously, planted seeds of stewardship in my heart. Just as they served, so do I, and now my children follow by our example. This cycle of giving and serving is what God calls us to do. It’s a privilege to give back a portion of all that belongs to Him—a practice deeply rooted in scripture and essential for our spiritual growth, enriching both our community and congregation.

Tithing our treasures is perhaps the most familiar form of giving. Malachi 3:10 challenges us to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” This passage highlights the profound blessings that come from trusting God with our financial resources, an act of faith that acknowledges God’s provision over our own.

We are also called to dedicate our time to God’s service. Ephesians 5:16 urges us to “make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Our time, a precious gift from God, should reflect our priorities and the values of our hearts. Through volunteering in the classroom or serving at the food bank, or simply being present for those in need, we honor God by using His gift of time to serve others.

Similarly, our talents are a call to stewardship. 1 Peter 4:10 instructs us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Whether it’s leadership, making auction paddles, singing in the choir, teaching, or any other skill, these talents are entrusted to us not merely for our benefit but for the common good. By dedicating our talents, we acknowledge that each skill is a blessing from God, intended to be used in service to His kingdom.

When we had the privilege of sending our children to OSL, our lives were immeasurably enriched. During this time, my desire to give—my instinct to contribute—was at its strongest. I felt a profound need to acknowledge and reciprocate the incredible blessings we received. With our time, talents, and treasures, we endeavored to give back as much as possible to match the generosity that had been extended to us. Yet, I’ve realized that God doesn’t demand such repayment; His grace alone is sufficient.

Driven by gratitude, I wanted to give back to the place that brought us so much joy, comfort, and blessings. This churchschool is a unique community—a sanctuary of learning unlike any other. My family has experienced vast opportunities here, and for this, I am deeply thankful.

How can I possibly repay or earn such remarkable gifts? The hallways of this school, its sanctuary, and the classrooms that embrace my children each day are sacred spaces. Here, their minds are enriched, their hearts are cherished, and their spirits are uplifted. What have I done to deserve such blessings?

God has chosen to place us here and bless our family abundantly. Time and again, I have seen the fruits of this blessing in the quality education and countless opportunities my children have received at OSL.

Let me share with you why my husband and I are committed to giving. In tithing our time, talents, and treasures, we embrace a unifying theme: everything we possess is a gift from God. We are simply stewards of His extraordinary generosity. This act of giving deepens our dependence on God, fortifies our community, and aligns our lives with His divine purpose.

We choose to tithe with our time, talents, and treasures because we believe it allows us to embody the greatest commandments: to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. As my confirmation verse from 1 John 4:7 beautifully puts it, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.”

I urge you to reflect on your blessings and to remember who bestowed them upon you. Tithing, in all its forms, is a transformative act of worship. It’s a declaration that God reigns over our lives, and it’s our daily mission to reflect His love to the world. By giving of our time, talents, and treasures, we further a message of hope—that ultimately, heaven is full and hell is empty.

Jennifer is a life-long member of OSL. She and her husband Jordan have served in a variety of roles. Jordan is on the Spiritual Life Team and Jennifer is currently on the Board of Directors. They are school parents, with one child currently enrolled and three children who graduated from OSL.  

Coming upon an unconscious man in a store would be a shock to anyone. But would you know how to help? CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It can help save a life during cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating or beats ineffectively. All Lutheran school and early childhood teachers and staff undergo CPR training on a regular basis.

Courtney Mateer is an early childhood teacher at Our Savior Lutheran School, Lansing. She has attended regular CPR training sessions with fellow staff members, led by Pastor Lang Yang, a certified CPR instructor and Hmong Pastor at Our Savior. Recently when Courtney and early childhood co-worker Carly Coomes were at Target, they came upon a man who was unconscious. They remembered their training and sprang into action. While Carly notified emergency and Target employees, Courtney began performing CPR until paramedics arrived. The man, who was in his late-20’s or early 30’s, received medical attention and survived.

Courtney was recently recognized with a Lifesaving Award and medal from the American National Red Cross for her selfless and humane action using lifesaving skills. In addition, Pastor Lang Yang was also recognized with an Instructor Lifesaving Award and pin.

Every person, especially those who work in churches and schools, should learn the basic lifesaving skills of First Aid/CPR/AED. You never know when you will encounter another person who needs lifesaving. This could be your children, parents, family members, students, friends, or strangers. Pastor Yang stated, “You don’t have to work in the medical field to save another person’s life. Knowing the basic lifesaving skills will prepare you when the time comes.”

We thank God for Courtney’s effective use of CPR, and for the training that Pastor Yang and so many instructors provide. While we pray that it is seldom used, we are thankful to God for those who can respond with lifesaving skills.

By Pastor Wangelin

“Who are you voting for?” Years ago, this question may not have put people in defense mode as much as it does today. In today’s charged political climate, that question almost sounds like you’re picking for a fight. Our nation is once again preparing for an election for a variety of public offices, most notably for a new president. Once again, it is proving to be a very divisive and tense process for our country. We are bombarded with news articles and negative attack adds with headlines touting “fear” “scared” “worried” “unhinged” “melt down” and other such hype words. People have anxiety and worry over the process and the result. How do we endure this and even participate in this election as Christians?

First and foremost, we are followers of Jesus. We believe that God is sovereign over the nations and in control of human history. Jesus is on the throne, and His plan of salvation will unfold. His kingdom is unshakable. We do not put our trust, faith, or hope in any country, political party, or politician. We keep our eyes on Jesus.

Secondly, we take our concerns to the Lord in prayer. The Bible invites us to bring any and all cares and concerns to the Lord, because He cares for us. God wants us to tell Him all about it. The Bible also says to pray “for all those in authority.” We are to keep our government, our leaders, and this election process in our prayers.

Finally, we are to love our neighbor in all things. This means participating in our government, and thinking through policies and laws that would best serve our fellow citizens. Christians are to honor the government and be respectful of those in positions of authority (Fourth Commandment). We are to participate in government, vote, even run for office if we feel so called, because God has designed governments for our good. We want to pursue what is good and beneficial to our country and our communities. We may genuinely disagree about how best to care for our citizens, for the middle class, the poor, the immigrants, employees and employers, and the unborn, but as Christians we want to do our best to pursue those things that bring help, protection, life, and liberty.

It is not easy in a broken, fallen world. Every leader and politician is a sinful human being, and no government is perfect or free from corruption. That is why our government can never save us. Only in Jesus, only in the fellowship of the Christian Church, only in the hope of eternal life in Christ do we find our true identity, purpose, and hope. This election is important, but it is not as important as the Gospel, or salvation, or the Kingdom of God. We are about bigger things – eternal things.

For all those concerned or anxious about this election, we have an Election Prayer Guide that people can use in their personal prayer time. We also invite our community to an Election Prayer Vigil on Sunday, November 3, at 4 p.m. This time of prayer, Scripture, and song, will be based on the Election Prayer Guide, and allow us to spend time in the Lord’s house, together, in prayer.

With eyes on Jesus, we have Good News for our world, no matter the outcome of this election. The Good News is that we have a Savior in Jesus Christ, that the Kingdom of God is at hand, and that we can experience the eternal peace, love, and joy that was have in Christ. We get to share this Good News and the love of God with our neighbor and everyone God places in our path. This is our mission.

If you come across someone anxious or nervous about the election, please share with them the Election Prayer Guide or invite them to the Election Prayer Vigil. We know where to go with our concerns. We take them to the One who rules over the nations, and who holds the whole world in His hands. He is the one who loved the world so much, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Flags being thrown up in the air. Instruments being played throughout the whole service. Snacks! The Gospel! Worship! A “no-cleanup corner.” And of course, families with even the youngest worshippers being able to worship together.

If you’ve not experienced our Connect Service, my initial hope is that you would check it out. It takes place on the 2^nd and 4^th Sundays of the month at 10:00ish AM in the Commons. So what is the Connect service? What takes place at Connect? How does Connect strive to engage even our youngest worshippers? Let’s take a look!

Coming out of COVID, many families with young children were the demographic that took awhile to make their way back to worship, for a litany of reasons: online worship was easier, it takes a lot to get several children and adults ready to go to church, kids can’t sit still for an hour, they’ll be loud, etc. All valid reasons, but as we know, there is nothing like the real thing.

At Connect, we are trying to remove as many barriers as possible for families who want to be in worship.

So what does a normal Connect service look like?

Right around 10, we start with an opening song. We understand for young families getting anywhere on time can be a struggle. During the song, our youngest worshippers are invited to come forward, grab a flag or an instrument, and make a joyful noise to the Lord!

After the opening song, we have a moment of confession and absolution and a time of visual faith. The unique way that we do that is through stations. We give time where families can head to the stations together to do a station based on the scripture readings for the day.

A few examples: When we were focusing on a scripture reading from the prophet Isaiah last year, all worshippers got to make a scroll, write on it, and take it home. When we talked about the paralyzed man being healed and lowered down through a roof by his friends, we made popsicle stick mats to remind us of God’s love. We’ve made cards that worshippers can take home or leave and we distribute to shut-ins, the food bank, etc. We’ve written sins on a whiteboard and are reminded that Jesus forgives us as we wipe them away.

After the stations comes the reading for the day, where kids can come up front and sit on the rug and hear the scripture reading for the day. Then comes the message, similar to what would take place in the 8:30 and 10:30 services in the sanctuary, but adjusted and changed a little for the Connect service and space.

After the message we have time to celebrate the Lord’s Supper on the 2^nd Sunday of the month along with a prayer station where all worshippers can fill out a prayer request that will be prayed for at the service. We’ve prayed for all kinds of things! We’ve prayed for families, those having surgery, those traveling, kittens, dogs, friends, ducks, and the list goes on and on! It is a joy to show that nothing is too ‘silly’ to pray about. God wants us to pray, and we pray!

We then end the service with a blessing, a song to lead us into the week, and we reset the Commons for school on Monday morning.

Phew. That’s a lot there! And for the most part that service is around 50-60 minutes. Throughout the whole service children are invited to get up, move around, grab a snack, play on the nugget couch, play with magnatiles, dance, express their worship, and have fun!

Our Connect service is meant to be a place where families can worship together, not have to worry about noise, and can worship as freely as they need to! This service is an opportunity for those who might not feel comfortable in the Sanctuary, those who haven’t been to worship in a while, or those who are looking to get back into worship in a new stage of life. It is truly a worship service, a time to receive the gifts God gives to us, and an opportunity for the whole family to be engaged.

Here’s a few comments that families have made about Connect:

“The activity stations were kid friendly and felt right in number, service still felt fulfilling as worship for an adult and fun for the kids.”

“I like all of the interactive stations and my boys love the snacks”

“We attended just because we were curious to check it out, but realized it was a good fit for our family.”

“We enjoy and really appreciate having this option for us and the kids to hear the word and worship together.”

You can hear what other people say, but the best way to experience Connect, is to join us. It is an informal, laid-back, worship service where families can connect with each other, and families can connect with God. Check it out, invite a friend. Invite a family. Invite someone you know who would love this service.

Try it out! Give it a shot! We would love to have you!

Pastor Chris <><

The Lutheran Church is historically known as “the singing church” This is due to the emphasis placed on music and congregation singing by Martin Luther and the Wittenberg Reformation. This year marks the 500th anniversary of the first collections of Lutheran hymns published in 1524. In the month of October, we will sing a song from these collections each Sunday at our traditional service.

The first edition of the “hymnal” was really a lose collection of eight songs that were written by various authors and already sung in the church at Wittenberg. The title was Songs and Psalms of Praise according to the pure word of God from the Holy Scriptures written by various highly educated people to sing in the churches, as is already the practice in Wittenberg. It was printed in early 1524 in Nuremberg, Germany.

The first eight hymns were written by Martin Luther and Paul Speratus working in collaboration. Of the original eight, three are in our current Lutheran Service Book: Salvation Unto Us Has Come (LSB 555), Dear Christians One and All, Rejoice (LSB 556), and From Depths of Woe, I Cry to Thee (LSB 607).

The collection was so popular, that by the end of the year, a second edition was published, called the Erfurt Enchiridion (Handbook), which may be considered the first proper hymnal in the Lutheran Church. It was published in Erfurt in 1524 and had twenty-six songs, which included the original eight published earlier that year. Of the twenty-six, eighteen were written by Martin Luther. Other composers were Paul Speratus, Justus Jonas, Elisabeth Cruciger, and one by Jan Hus. While these songs could be sung in the churches, the handbook was intended for home use and other occasions. People were to sing these songs everywhere. Sixteen of these songs were included in the first English hymnal printed in London in 1555. Congregational singing continued to spread as the Lutheran Reformation advanced. Today we take singing in church for granted.

Thirteen songs from the Erfurt Edition are included in our Lutheran Service Book today. In addition to the three listed above, we still sing: Savior of the Nations Come (LSB 332), We Praise You, Jesus, at Your Birth (LSB 382), The Only Son from Heaven (LSB 402), Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands (LSB 458), Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord (LSB 497), Come Holy Ghost Creator Blest (LSB 498), These are the Holy Ten Commandments (LSB 518), O Lord, We Praise Thee (LSB 617), Jesus Christ our Blessed Savior (LSB 627), In the Very Midst of Life (LSB 755).

In Colossians 3:16 it says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” The Lutheran Reformation truly took this verse to heart. In the spirit of the Old Testament Psalms, they put faith and music together. They taught the people and praised God simultaneously. How amazing that we sing so many of these hymns to this day! We continue our tradition of being “the singing church” as we lift our voices in praise to God, teaching the faith, and singing the Gospel.

In the month of October, we will sing the following songs that are marking their 500th anniversary of publication.

October 6 – Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord (LSB 497)

October 13 – Salvation Unto Us Has Come (LSB 555)

October 20 – Dear Christians One and All Rejoice (LSB 556)

October 27 – O Lord We Praise Thee (LSB 617)

Lutherans #LoveLansing at the Lugnuts

Over 545 Lutherans from 11 LCMS congregations in the Greater Lansing area descended on Jackson Field in downtown Lansing on August 3, 2024. They gathered an hour before the game on the Tailgate Terrace for a stadium buffet and fellowship. There was as much food given as received, however, as the Lutherans brought food donations to the stadium to donate to the Greater Lansing Food Bank. The combination of fellowship, generosity, and being a presence in the community was the vision for the “circuit convocation” – a gathering of the circuit churches every three years. Tickets to the event, which included the all-you-can-eat buffet, were subsidized by the LCMS Michigan District and Church Extension Fund.

“It was great to see so many of us from the area Lutheran congregations enjoying a beautiful evening at the ballpark together. The venue allowed us to be together but also right in the midst of our community at the same time. These are the people we are trying to reach with the Gospel,” said Pastor Bill Wangelin of Our Savior Lansing.

Pastor Jim Pearl of St. John, St. John’s, commended, “God blessed us with a wonderful evening filled with fellowship, fun, and the opportunity to bless the community through donations to the Greater Lansing Food Bank.”

There were other groups noticeably present at the game, such as political campaigns and the Knights of Columbus. A group of nuns in their habits ate next to the “Welcome to Lutheran Night” sign. The people in the stands reflected the diversity of the area. It placed our LCMS churches in the context of the community to which we are sent. While the Lugnuts couldn’t pull off a win, the beautiful evening ended with a great fireworks display, lighting up the city skyline and the state capitol.

A few of the congregations annually go to the Lugnuts as a church event. Now that the circuit churches were drawn into this experience together, the pastors and lay leaders are talking about how to coordinate this event next year. We may not have the grant from CEF and the Michigan District or the Tailgate Terrace, but we could still bring the Food Bank donations and enjoy an evening together next year surrounded by the community we are called to serve.

By Pastor Wangelin <><

Onyx is the name of our ministry dog at Our Savior Lutheran. God created certain animals to have a special effect on human beings, and dogs can bring comfort, joy, calm, and companionship to children and adults alike. When they see Onyx, children and adults smile, laugh, are comforted, and become more gentle and compassionate. These animals can bring out the best in us. We are so blessed to have Onyx as a part of the ministry team and student support services at OSL.

Onyx is a Gemstone

Onyx is in the Old Testament

You won’t find Onyx the ministry dog in the Bible, but you will find onyx the gemstone. While mentioned in several passages of Scripture, a significant place is in the book of Exodus and the building of the Tabernacle at the base of Mt. Sinai. Onyx was featured in the garments of the high priest. In Exodus 28:9 we read, “You shall take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel.” These two onyx stones were set in gold filigree and acted like shoulder pads on the special vest of the high priest. Onyx appeared again in the ephod, or the gold chest plate that the high priest wore with twelve precious stones set in the front. The twelve stones represented the twelve tribes of Israel. Onyx was one of the stones mounted into the ephod. These priestly vestments and the use of onyx remind us how beautiful God is and how special it is to worship Him.

Onyx in the New Testament

At the end of the book of Revelation, we read of the new heavens and the new earth. When Jesus comes again, He will make all things new. There will be no more death, or mourning, or crying, or pain, for the old order of things will have passed away. In Revelation chapter 21, we read about the heavenly Jerusalem coming down from heaven, the home of righteousness. This heavenly city is described as having streets of gold, gates made of pearl, and foundations decorated with twelve kinds of precious stones. The twelve foundations had on them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The previous stones on the foundation included jasper, sapphire, emerald, etc. One of them is onyx (in some translations it is sardonyx, a type of red onyx). The precious stones of the heavenly Jerusalem signify how beautiful and wonderful heaven will be in the loving presence of our Savior.

A Work in Progress

Raw onyx looks like a plain, simple rock. It looks like nothing special. It is rough and unattractive. But the 

qualities are in there. An artisan knows how to bring out the best of this stone through a process of cutting, tumbling, polishing, and even etching and engraving. The result is beautiful and stunning. It shines and sparkles with reflective light. It is revealed as the valuable treasure it is.

We may feel sometimes like we are the raw onyx, nothing special, plain, rough around the edges, and worthless. But we are a treasure to God! God knows what we can be. He sees the potential and treasures us already in Christ. As a divine craftsman, God works on us in the process of sanctification, chipping away the rough edges, polishing, placing us in a setting, and creating something beautiful to reflect His light and glory. It may be a painful process at times. But God is careful and able to work good in all things, with the end result in mind.

In 1 John 3:2 it says, “Beloved we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is.”

God treasures us now as beloved children, but He is still working in our hearts and lives. We are a work in progress. Only when Jesus comes again, in the heavenly Jerusalem, will we see the finished product of what God is making us to be. We will shine like stars in the sky, like precious gems. We will be like Jesus, and reflect the radiant glory of God.

The name onyx reminds us of how beautiful it is to worship God, and that heaven is our home. We are a work in progress, as the Lord does His good work in our lives to bring out the best in us to His glory.