Retrospect- Lutheran at Heart

As I look back over the years, I see the Lutheran influences on my beliefs more and more clearly. Although I was reared in other traditions, Luther was a childhood hero who helped guide me into classical Protestant perspectives. During undergraduate, seminary, and graduate school days, Reformation ideas helped keep me in touch with central aspects of the Christian Faith, and they moderated the effects of the surrounding theological liberalism and skepticism. Lutheran resources and the Lutheran Confessions helped guide my studies of Scripture, theology, the Sacraments, and practical ministry during my early years as a Protestant pastor. Later, a Lutheran view of vocation helped me as I sought to be a responsible educator and a decent and caring family man. 

Most of all, evangelical Lutheran perspectives on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and justification by faith have been a constant source of strength and encouragement through the ups and downs of this earthly pilgrimage. So, although other Christian traditions have influenced my life and thoughts, I have been a Lutheran at heart throughout my life!