In reply to Arthur Casci.

As a lifelong LCMS Lutheran, I find myself in the disctinct minority among all of these "thank you" e-mails; but I agree with Arthur Casci. I believe that it would be reasonable to take a cue from Martin Luther, and challenge with discussion, the course the Synod has charted for the last several years; rather than choose "blind acceptance" of views that we may disagree with. We live in a pluralistic, Democratic nation, where the kingdom of God and the world are colliding. We must be bold; but also "faithfully rational." Is it a unifying act among Christian citizens to almost "coerice" our congregants into political positions, or allegiance to a particular political party? Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever; but The Reformation must continue within our LCMS faithful. If I feel that there are times in which I must question my Church leadership, when the Holy Spirit speaks to my conscience that scripture may not coincide with their views; then I will speak out. I continue to be held "captive to the Holy Scripture" as best I can, and if I am not satisfied with the stance of my church body on any issue, then, as Martin Luther said, "Here I stand, I can do no other." I also have concerns that the LCMS is not attacking the problems of poverty, disease, racism, inadequate education, violence in our streets, and unjust wars (to name a few); as adamantly as they have confronted homosexual marriage, abortion, and immoral forms of contraception.....all of which, we can agree, are contrary to God's Law. Again, more debate and discussion may be in order, to decide what role the Church should play in the "Civil" world to address these issues. I have faith that my beloved LCMS always allow the members to "speak the truth in love." God's Peace.