It calls us away from self-absorption and orients us toward God. Returning often to the Lord's tab le with the whole congregation confronts us with the reality that the church is imperfect and unfinished. The minor irritations and profound disagreements of human life are as present in the congregation as in any social institution. But this common meal brings us together. Jesus unites us when our best desires are inadequate and our worst impulses prevent any unity or healing.
Lutheran spirituality is nourished by corporate worship.
For some Lutherans, gathering together to read the Bible, to hear the gospel proclaimed and to sing evokes their most intense sense of personal connection to God and community. The practices of praying, reading the Bible and singing praise are continued in small groups by families and individual s throughout the day and week to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit. But Lutherans do have particular characteristics. A realistic recognition of failure is one trait recognizable as typically Lutheran. At its best Lutheran spirituality produces fearlessness and forgiveness.