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In this devotion, Steve Thomason ’15 Ph.D., writes about God’s work of reframing our stories for us so that we can see the salvation happening in our lives. Read today’s God Pause.

“We must empty ourselves of everything that fills us so that we can be filled with what we are empty of.” – Augustine
If you’re anything like me, it seems to be getting harder and harder to live freely and lightly, and I need all the support I can muster to notice the still small voice of God amidst all the noise of this world. Join us for week 3 of Be Still on Thursday, December 18 at 6:15 p.m. CT. We will continue to engage with practices and discussions in our Advent series centered on slowing down, being present and exploring ways we can be receptive to hope, peace, joy, and love. This week, we will focus on ways we can rest in our receptivity to God’s joy. Don’t worry if you missed the previous sessions. Please come as you are to as many sessions as you are able at 6:15 p.m. CT on Thursday 12/18 and Sunday 12/21 on Zoom (link in email). Email me, Alison Westphal, at awestphal001@luthersem.edu, if you’re interested in joining, if you’re interested but can’t make it, or if you have questions.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Archives Lunch & Learn last week. If you weren’t able to join, you can view a recording of the presentation and the slides online. If you have feedback or questions, please reach out to Caleb Rollins at crollins002@luthersem.edu. And remember to fill out our archives survey by December 22.

As we enter the holiday season, Residential Life is delighted to invite you to several special
gatherings designed to build community, foster connection, and celebrate together. All members
of the community are warmly welcome to attend.

• Pancake Breakfast—Tuesday, December 23, 9–11 a.m. CT, OCC Café
  Start your Christmas prep with a relaxed and cozy pancake breakfast. Come enjoy hot pancakes, good conversation, and a joyful start to the day. Let us know (email sayashim002@luthersem.edu) if you plan to attend so we can plan accordingly. Staff and faculty are also welcome.
• Game and Movie Night—Saturday, December 27, Time: 4–7 p.m. CT, OCC 10
  Take a break and join us for an evening of games, a movie, and fellowship. Snacks and hot beverages will be provided in a comfortable, festive atmosphere.
• New Year’s Eve Celebration and Worship—Wednesday, December 31
  10:30 p.m.–12:10 a.m. (midnight) CT, Bockman Hall 116
  All are invited to a student-led worship gathering as we reflect on God’s faithfulness in 2025 and pray together as we welcome 2026. The evening will include music, prayer, reflection, and fellowship. Hot tea, hot cocoa, and snacks will be available as we celebrate the New Year together.

To support students who may be facing food insecurity, Luther Seminary operates a direct-order grocery process for the seminary community. Luther Seminary’s Grocery Assistance Program is a lifeline for students facing food insecurity. Started during the pandemic, this vital program continues to provide essential groceries to an average of 25 students each week. Through the program, students can request necessary food items that are then carefully processed, purchased, and delivered to campus by dedicated volunteers. This initiative helps students meet their nutritional needs and fosters a sense of community and support within the seminary. Your generous donation will ensure that this program can continue to make a real difference in the lives of Luther Seminary students. On the Grocery Assistance Program webpage, you can make a one-time or recurring gift to support this important ministry.

In this devotion, Cody Sanders, associate professor of Congregational and Community Care Leadership, wonders how we might root the very essence of who we are in our baptismal identity.
Read today’s God Pause.