Between Halloween and Advent, I yearn to include the word “eucharisteo” (a Greek word meaning “giving thanks”) into my Thanksgiving preparations. Celebrations may be different this year; will you be adapting your Thanksgiving plans? If so, I encourage you to embrace those changes as opportunities to be creative in how you both count — and share — your blessings, giving thanks to God for His faithfulness!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6–7).

There is a new LWML resource available to enhance your Thanksgiving plans: a set of 10 “Encouraging Bible Verses” with lovely fall wreath images to print, cut apart, and use. Consider inserting them in Thanksgiving cards, including one with a donated meal, or using them as place cards, napkin rings, or favors on your dining room table. May His Word be your eucharisteo encouragement!

Eden Keefe

Vice President of Gospel Outreach
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). In the midst of continual change in our world, we can trust that our Lord never changes. He is our rock; our fortress; our constant.

This last weekend a recurring change took place. For most of us, daylight saving time reverted back to standard time. Another change taking place is fall moving into winter, giving us shorter days of less sunshine.

Thinking about the changes in time and season remind me of how my Lord and Savior does not change. It is a comfort that I can count on Him every waking hour. It is a comfort that no matter what is happening around me, He is with me, guiding me through life’s changes.

LWML has not changed its focus for over 78 years. Our programs may change, and new resources may be developed, but Jesus Christ has always been at the center of what we do and who we are.

Click here for “Changeless!” — a Bible study from the Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly.

Char Kroemer

Vice President of Communication
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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Research shows that there are about 75 apps installed on the average smartphone, only nine of those see daily use. Did you know the LWML has an app?

The LWML App is full of items that you might have separate apps for already. Did you know there is a Bible in the app? No need for a separate devotion app — devotions, Bible studies, and a prayer wall are available. Need information on a mission grant? It’s there along with the League Pledge and songs in case you need them for quick reference at a meeting or event. Read the LWML President’s Blog and listen to the Podcast LWML On The Go while you wait at an appointment.

There are so many things in this app that will assist you in affirming your relationship with the Triune God and enable you to use your gifts in ministry to the people of the world. Make it your #1 app today!

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge (Proverbs 18:15).

Joy Anderson

Chairman, Growth and Development Committee
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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Mrs. Peggy Fickenscher influenced and encouraged my involvement in LWML as a newly installed teacher many years ago at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Houston, Texas. Her support helped me to say “yes” to joining LWML and later, to serve in several positions within the church organization. Her joy in serving and knack for hospitality was a definite example for me. She always encouraged me in whatever position I had, saying, “Christie, you can do this because I’m praying for you and God is with you.”

Peggy has been “serving” in heaven for quite a few years now, but I have always remembered her words. I have said “yes” to various LWML positions in several churches to which I belonged, serving in the LWML Missouri District, the Altenburg Zone, and national LWML. The blessings of friendship, encouragement, joy, and prayers are evident each day of my life. I remember and give thanks! To God be all glory and praise!

Christie Steffens

Chairman, Church Workers in Mission Committee 
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God (Hebrews 13:7a).

Sunday, October 11, 2020, was Pastor Appreciation Sunday. Have you done anything extra for your pastor? We thank our heavenly Father for His divine goodness and mercy every time we hear the Gospel message. Take time to thank those who share the Good News with you.

Having qualified, trained pastors is important. They teach us not just about our current life, but also our eternal life. Their teaching impacts eternity. The LWML Mission Grant Pre- and Post-Seminary Training for Local Church Workers in Africa strives to ensure African leaders speak the true Word of God. Learn more about this grant at www.lwml.org/2019-2021-mission-grant-15. We want all to hear the Good News no matter where they live. “Thank you,” pastors!

Arlene Naasz

Meeting Manager
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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Former LWML New England District Presidents Donna Gruel and Lynn Batchelder significantly influenced and encouraged my involvement in LWML. Their support helped lead me to say “yes” to serving in the same office.

Donna was the district LWML treasurer when I first became a part of the board of directors as a newly elected zone president, and Lynn was soon elected to the office of LWML New England District President. These women, through prayer, sharing His Word, and setting an example of excellence, taught me how to joyfully work for the Lord. They served Him with exuberance, not just in the LWML, but in every aspect of their lives.

We also worked together on the LWML 2013 Pittsburgh Convention Planning Committee. We laughed as we traveled all the way to Pittsburgh and back! I knew that when I was asked to prayerfully consider the nomination of LWML New England District President, I would not only be wonderfully supported by our loving Father, but I would also be strengthened by these mite-collecting, prayer-warrior, sisters-in-Christ.

We may be miles apart in distance these days, but our hearts will always be joined in joyful service to the Lord!

Leslie Colligan

Chairman, Mission Grants Committee 
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

More September to Remember articles

But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10: 41-42).

My life has always been busy and leaves me feeling stretched. Each stage has brought new duties and/or commitments. Job responsibilities and assignments fill my work hours. Volunteer hours, along with family commitments and household chores, fill the majority of my remaining waking hours. I admit I am more of a “Martha” and not always a “Mary.” But I am always amazed at what spending time in God’s Word will do! I am refreshed, refocused, and renewed.

Check out the Bible study Balancing Life's Challenges on the LWML website. This study and many others help us to focus on God as our priority in our daily life.

Karla Koehler

Treasurer
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

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