Reformation Day Service in Jerusalem

Today is Reformation Day, when we commemorate Luther’s posting of the 95 Theses and the beginning of our history as the Lutheran Church. The ELCJHL hosted a multi-lingual service at the Redeemer Church in Jerusalem today in recognition of this important day for our Church. This service has historically been a time of great celebration here in Jerusalem, but this year our hearts are with our congregants in the West Bank who are denied permits to enter Jerusalem, and with all those suffering throughout Gaza, Lebanon, and beyond. Propst Joachim Lenz preached on the text of the Beatitudes, reminding us that even in times like these, Jesus, the Great Peacemaker, is with us. We find hope in our faith and in the words of Christ.

“Blessed are the peacemakers. Blessed are those who mourn. Blessed are the pure in heart. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”