Growing up as a teenager in the Midwest, I spent endless hours tuned into Chicago’s WLS radio, listening to my favorite musicians. Attending my first concert at age 15 completely captivated me. There was nothing quite like experiencing live music alongside a crowd of fellow fans.

Throughout my life, I’ve had the privilege of seeing numerous live performances, but some of my favorite moments have been sharing those experiences with my youngest daughter, Anna. Over the years, the two of us have attended more than a dozen concerts together, returning to see several of our favorite acts multiple times.

I remember seeing concert advertisements on billboards and in music magazines when I was younger. The main act would often be listed alongside the acronym “TBA.” Being a bit naive at the time, I remember thinking, “Wow, this group is everywhere, I really need to catch one of their shows!”

As it turns out, “TBA” stands for “To Be Announced.” But for the longest time, I genuinely believed they were just an extraordinarily busy band touring nonstop.

A New Kind of “TBA”

These days, “TBA” has taken on a different meaning for me.

As I begin this new chapter serving God through Lutheran Family Service, there is much that is still “to be announced.” People I have yet to meet, congregations I have yet to visit, and opportunities I have yet to experience. I don’t know exactly where each stop will lead, but I look forward to seeing how God is already at work through LFS and the people who make this ministry possible.

One thing I am quickly learning is that this ministry extends far beyond the counselors and staff members working directly with those we serve. Every person who prays for LFS, shares our ministry with someone who needs help, welcomes us into a congregation, or supports this work financially becomes part of what God is doing through LFS.

The Gifts Were His First

That brings to mind the words of 1 Chronicles 29:14: “For all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.”

What a wonderful perspective on stewardship. The gifts we offer in support of God’s work were His gifts first. Our time, talents, relationships, financial resources, and opportunities to serve have all been entrusted to us by Him. We simply have the privilege of putting those gifts to work.

And through your partnership with Lutheran Family Service, those gifts are making a difference.

They help babies find loving Christian homes through adoption. They provide compassionate support to women facing surprise pregnancies. They strengthen marriages and families. They help children and adults receive Christian mental health counseling. And they encourage LCMS church workers and their families so they can remain healthy and strong in ministry.

What Will God Do Next?

As I travel to communities and congregations in the months ahead, I look forward to meeting many of you and seeing firsthand what God is doing through this partnership.

There is still plenty “TBA” about the journey ahead. But we know Who is leading it. And we know He has given each of us gifts that can be used to care for His people.

Will you consider putting your gifts to work through Lutheran Family Service?

Your prayers and financial partnership help ensure that Christian care is there when individuals and families need it most. Consider making a gift today, beginning a monthly partnership, or inviting me to visit your congregation or group to share more about the ministry of Lutheran Family Service.

Give today at LutheranFamilyService.org, or contact me to learn more about how you can partner with LFS in growing God’s gifts and sharing His care with others.

Together in His service,

Rob Kellar
Director of Donor Engagement
Lutheran Family Service
515-573-3138
[email protected]