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Happy 250th birthday, United States of America! 

For the last 179 years of that historic period, LCMS women have been “influencers” in our American culture, using their many gifts and talents to share Jesus’ love in their homes, families, churches, schools, and work places. For the next eleven months, you will read stories on our LWML website about LCMS women who applied biblical principles in their vocations; some names you may recognize, while others are known only to a few. 

For example, my grandmother, Minnie, known only to her family, was born in poverty in 1880 to Lutheran parents who taught her to love the Lord. She had a meager third-grade education, was the wife of an abusive husband, and was the mother of eight children. The Lord enabled her to have them all baptized, attend Sunday School, and be confirmed. They grew up loving the Lord despite their living conditions. While she never told me specific verses that guided her life, I imagine that one of them was I can do all things through him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).

God blessed my brother and me with her Christian influence when she lived with our family. Her descendants now live all over America and have the opportunity to share God’s love with others. One does not need to be famous to serve God while applying His principles in our interactions.

Minnie’s influence in America may not have been as dramatic or far-reaching as other women who have served as deaconesses, teachers, writers, speakers, missionaries, and presidents of corporations. However, her life accomplished the same goal: to share our Lutheran faith in God and to pray that others come to saving faith. 

I am inspired when I remember Grandma Minnie sitting in her rocking chair with the golden glow of sunlight streaming through the window behind her. Her lap held an open Bible where her work-worn fingers slid along the verses as her lips silently formed the Scripture words she was reading. 

May you be inspired during the next eleven months through the stories of LCMS women who continue to keep Jesus in their minds and hearts and influence others in their varied vocations. We are all children of God who serve Him with gladness, using the gifts and talents that He has given to us, wherever and whenever He has need of us.
 

We would love to hear YOUR story!

Read more HIS Story through History

Related Resources: LWML History
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