In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman returns from sabbatical with a candid conversation about the changing landscape of ministry in the LCMS. From re-organizing senior staff and shifting governance models, to the biblical case for pastoral sabbaticals, to the urgent realities of pastoral formation, this episode doesn’t shy away from the hard questions.

Tim shares personal reflections from his sabbatical and his upcoming book release, while Jack dives into the tough realities facing small congregations, bivocational ministry, and the need for fresh approaches to leadership. Together they recap the Pacific Southwest District convention, explore resolutions around SMP pastors and Lutheran identity, and call the church to unity rooted in Scripture and Confession.

👉 Topics include:

Why Christ Greenfield restructured its leadership model.
The benefits of sabbaticals for pastors (and congregations).
Governance models that help or hinder ministry.
Urgent challenges in pastoral formation and SMP pathways.
What really defines Lutheran identity.
How property development and mission innovation can shape the future.

This is a hopeful yet challenging look at where we are and where we’re headed as the LCMS seeks to unite for the sake of the gospel.

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https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

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The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod often talks about vocation—but are we living it out? In this powerful episode, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Dr. Travis Guse, executive coach and author of Called to Be, to challenge the assumption that “calling” is only for pastors and church workers.

Travis shares his journey through burnout, identity crisis, and rediscovering Luther’s radical teaching that every baptized believer has a holy calling—whether they’re pastors, parents, accountants, or baristas. The conversation explores:

✅ Why so many in the LCMS struggle with identity and purpose
✅ How Luther’s view of vocation can transform ordinary life
✅ Why coaching may be the key to raising up healthier leaders and congregations
✅ The controversial question: Does the LCMS undervalue the callings of everyday believers?

This episode will make you rethink what it means to follow Jesus in the LCMS—and why discovering your God-given calling may be the most urgent issue facing the church today.

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Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

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If you care about the future of the LCMS, you won’t want to miss this one.
Your perspective matters, let's have discussion that honors Christ!

New LCMS data reveals a stunning reality: nearly three-quarters of congregations worship fewer than 100 people each week. Tim and Jack unpack what this means for the future of our pastors, our mission, and our very identity as a church body. Are we facing an “emerging emergency” in staffing, sustainability, and representation? From micro-church struggles to the influence of large congregations, this candid conversation doesn’t shy away from the hard truths — and the hopeful opportunities.

Support the show

Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

Visit uniteleadership.org