The Letter of May 16, 1866

On May 16, 1866, pastor and church leader C. F. W. Walther wrote, “God carries on His work through men with whom it sometimes seems as if one would go to the right and the other to the left and the third one would hold back, and yet the work progresses.” The line was not a shrug at doctrine or duty, but a confession of God’s steady providence. In seasons of tension—when personalities clash and plans compete—Walther directed weary servants away from celebrity leaders and toward the Lord who advances His gospel through imperfect hands.

C. F. W. Walther (1811–1887)

Walther served as a leading voice among German Lutheran immigrants in the United States and labored primarily in St. Louis, Missouri. He helped shepherd congregations that had crossed the Atlantic seeking freedom to confess and teach the faith with integrity. His influence reached through preaching, pastoral care, and the training of ministers, calling the church to courage without pride and conviction without bitterness. His “heroism” was often quiet: the bravery of staying faithful in ordinary ministry, building institutions, and enduring criticism while seeking the good of Christ’s people.

Rebuilding, Growth, and Strain in Postwar America

The year 1866 stood in the shadow of the Civil War, a time of national rebuilding and personal loss. Churches faced practical burdens—money, buildings, education, and mission work—while also navigating disagreements about methods, leadership, and priorities. Walther’s observation fit such a moment: even when workers pull in different directions, God is not stalled. As Scripture reminds, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Enduring Lessons for Christ’s Servants

Walther’s words commend patience under friction, humility in success, and hope amid slow progress. Faithfulness may look like steady teaching, forgiving offenses, and continuing the work even when cooperation is imperfect. The church is not finally upheld by human harmony, but by God’s living action: “I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6). Where Christ is trusted, repentance is practiced, and the Word is honored, the Lord’s hand remains sure—even through frail people.