December 2023
We asked a few of our pastors serving in the city of Chicago what Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt
his name together! Psalm 34:3 ESV means for ministry in Chicago. Here are some of their replies:
When I think about magnifying the Lord together it brings to mind experiences with middle school youth groups. Ebony, a young leader, talks about the questions middle school boys are asking and how they are really good questions. They make observations in the Bible study that adults might miss (I know I have), and they bring up problems in their lives that I would have not considered. God sees and hears all of them even when I don’t. To magnify the Lord together for us means we are listening to stories that may feel distant and seeing how our good God is close to those as He’s close to me.
— Vicar Eric Hawley, Trinity Lutheran Church, Chicago (Galewood)
In service to the Lord, we can dedicate our time and effort to helping others, practicing kindness and compassion, and living according to principles that honor and glorify God.
— Pastor Walter Ramírez, Tabor Lutheran Church, Chicago
This psalm of David reminds me of another Psalm: “Oh, give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy
endureth forever!” [Psalm 136]. Magnifying God reminds me how big and loving God really is. In our current turbulent times we need a BIG GOD and He “fits the bill!” Because He is big in love, mercy and compassion, He is big enough to handle and overcome any obstacle in my ministry in the “Windy City.” Therefore, like David, I will sing, “Let us exalt [SHINE] His Name together [and forever].” Amen!
— Rev. Elsner Lewis, St. Philip Lutheran Church, Chicago
WITNESS: Encouraging personal witnessing, congregational engagement with their community, support of our NID partnerships and missions and sharing in a world mission field together.