Lesallan | August 25, 2025

Response to “Grateful for Our Church History” by Ruth

Every so often, a devotional comes along that not only speaks to the heart but also sharpens the mind. Ruth’s reflection on the value of knowing our church history is one of those pieces. It is a reminder that the past is not just something we read about—it is something we learn from, live out, and pass on.

Ruth’s comparison between Luke’s work as a physician and our call to examine the Church’s story is both insightful and deeply relevant. Just as a doctor looks beyond symptoms to uncover the root cause of illness, we are called to look beyond surface-level issues and allow God’s Word—and the testimony of those who came before us—to address the root cause of sin in our lives. As Paul wrote, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4, NIV).

Her reminder that the Church is both resilient and an overcomer is a truth worth holding close. Across centuries of persecution, division, and cultural upheaval, Christ has preserved His bride. That reality should stir gratitude in us—not only for the privilege of holding the Bible in our hands, but also for the responsibility to live out its truth in our own generation.

Like Luke, may we be diligent in our “spiritual case histories”—examining the past with honesty, learning from it with humility, and applying its lessons with courage. God’s mercy truly is “from everlasting to everlasting,” and His work through imperfect people is a testimony to His unchanging grace.

Church history is more than dates and names—it is a living testimony of God’s faithfulness. What moments or figures from our shared history have most inspired or challenged your walk with Christ? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your story might be the encouragement someone else needs today.

In Christ’s service,
Lesallan Bostron

References:

Ruth, H. (2025). Grateful for our church history [Devotional].


Lesallan

Lesallan Bostron is a Christian leader, writer, and practitioner committed to incarnational ministry and cross‑cultural partnership. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership and combines academic study with hands‑on experience in community engagement, discipleship, and mission strategy. Lesallan’s work emphasizes culturally sensitive approaches that prioritize local leadership, long‑term sustainability, and spiritual formation. His vocational journey includes service in the Air Force, experience in sales, and practical stewardship of rural life, including horse care and farm work. These varied roles have shaped his pastoral instincts, resilience, and capacity to work across social and cultural boundaries. Lesallan brings this practical wisdom into classroom settings, short‑term mission planning, and curriculum design, always centering humility, listening, and mutual accountability. Lesallan’s research and writing focus on rethinking mission from models of exportation to models of partnership. He draws on historical examples, contemporary missiological scholarship, and lived practice to advocate for pre‑departure listening, capacity transfer, and reparative accountability. His devotional writing and teaching aim to bridge academic insight and spiritual formation, helping churches and practitioners translate theology into ethical, effective ministry. Available for speaking, teaching, and collaborative projects, Lesallan seeks partnerships that honor local agency and cultivate sustainable discipleship. He lives in Wisconsin and welcomes conversation with pastors, mission leaders, and educators who are committed to faithful, contextually wise engagement.