Bishop Ernst //Gamxamûb, Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia, Council of Churches in Namibia, at Französische Friedrichstadtkirche, Berlin.
The evangelist Matthew reports that Jesus sends disciples into the world. Their job is to tell people about faith and he gives them some practical tips on how to behave. But he also makes it clear that they will run into trouble. So he encourages them not to be afraid but to profess faith in God.
This is indeed a very important day in the history of the Church and of our denomination. Today, as every other year we remember Martin Luther and his role in the reformation of the Christian church. I don’t think Luther ever imagined the celebration of this day, much less that a Lutheran pastor from Puerto Rico, an island and its native inhabitants encountered by Christopher Columbus 25 years prior to the posting of the 95 Thesis, would be preaching at the commemoration service.
“You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Sisters and brothers, we’ve just heard this teaching from Matthew in Norwegian[1]:“….Give to everyone who begs from you. If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn...
