Since 1996, sixteen men have been awarded the Sabre of Boldness award by the editors of the journal Gottesdienst. It began as a kind of joke, but like many things in the Lord's providence, God had other plans. Today, the Sabre is a high honor, and has been awarded to Christians around the world who have suffered for the faith, and yet remained faithful.
That being said, the Rev. Dr. Burnell Eckardt still finds a way to blend the seriousness of those who suffer for the sake of the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the self-deprecating humor that doesn't take itself too seriously. And this is a Lutheran paradox to be sure.
Anyway, here at Gottesdienst Online is a well-written piece that not only reports on this year's award (announced and presented yesterday) which went to the LCMS Iowa East District President, the Rev. Dr. Brian Saunders, for his heroism and boldness in finding placements for nearly all of the candidates from Fort Wayne last year who were bereft of calls. He is truly worthy of this honor, and he has served his Lord and Church boldly with his courage and hard work.
Also in the article is Dr. Eckardt's remarks that are both humorous and poignant.
As St. Augustine said, "Take and read." You won't be sorry!
And, dear reader, please pray for all Christians everywhere who suffer and struggle for the sake of the Gospel!
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