Alright, here's a little impromptu fun to share around as part of our celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. All are welcome to participate, even if you aren't Lutheran.
What significance does the 500th anniversary of the Reformation hold for you?
Like Luther, I was not born a Lutheran. I was a "latecomer" and therefore have a weird perspective on Lutheran-y things. On one hand, I think it gives me the clarity to prioritize Scripture over other things (like the liturgy) that can be a bit more difficult for life-long Lutherans. This also makes me hesitant to place too much emphasis on Luther. (He was, after all, just a man--and he would have been the first to admit it).
On the other hand, I'm quite happy to be a Lutheran, especially since I've more or less consciously chosen to be here with the other back row-sitting, coffee slurping, change-resistant folks who have a theology that I can agree to in good conscience. This gives me a sense of pride and belonging that I didn't always get growing up in an inter-denominational school, where the theology and style often made me raise my eyebrows a bit.
Regardless, 500 years is quite the momentous occasion. It brings a sense of pride that I'm part of something so storied and historic. My trip to Germany was organized, in part, to be part of the celebration of the anniversary, so that's a pretty big piece.
Going forward, I hope the anniversary inspires a steadfastness in the faith for myself and my fellow Lutherans, especially as the culture (here in the U.S.) seems to be changing so rapidly.
List up to 5 of your favorite Luther quotes.
"Are you ignorant of what it means to be ignorant?"
"To go against conscience is neither right nor safe."
"I have held many things in my hand and lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess."
"The Christian shoemaker does his duty not by putting little crosses on the shoes, but by making good shoes, because God is interested in good craftsmanship."
"Peace if possible. Truth at all costs."
List up to 3 of your favorite church/Luther websites (serious or otherwise).
Bring some thick skin and a desire to laugh at yourself or others (especially "experts" on the internet). No denomination is off-limits, including Lutherans themselves. "Horus Ruins Christmas" is highly recommended.
Nerd-dom meets pointed theology. Bible Studies to current events.
They excel at mediocrity! Everyone's second favorite theological game show, containing hits like "Praise Song Cruncher", "Church Sign Theology", and "Iron Preacher".
Which version of "A Mighty Fortress" is your favorite?
And you thought I could get through this tag without being controversial! The classic hymn that has two competing tunes, causing nearly as much consternation as what color hymnbook is the best.
I have to say that I prefer the "isorhthmic" version of the song, a.k.a. the one that's easier to sing and has eight notes instead of an overabundance of half notes.
Got an answer you're dying to share? I'd love to hear it in the comments!
Feel free to steal this tag!
To be honest, I know almost nothing about Lutherans so this whole series thingy you're doing is quite interesting. I don't think I've ever been to a Lutheran church (I think I'm a Baptist? Technically I'm part of the INC network in Australia) so it's good to learn something about other denomination.
ReplyDeleteGlad you're enjoying it! I really enjoy learning about different Christian denominations and I thought it would be fun to share a little bit about mine.
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