Instruction leading to Confirmation

Yes, it is that time again.  School begins and so does our time of instruction leading to confirmation.  However, instruction leading to confirmation is much different that any school subject!  Yes, in both there are times of reading, writing and thinking- but there are some major differences! 

“Faith” isn’t a subject taught in school- “faith” as we understand it comes only in connection to the Word of God.  Faith is God’s work in us through the Word by the Holy Spirit.  Faith was given us through the water and the Word in baptism, faith is strengthened as we hear the Word of God preached on Sundays, and whenever we are confronted with the Gospel.  Faith is not something that is taught, at least in the traditional sense, because it is not something that we grasp with our own reason or strength.  Someone once said, “Faith is caught-not taught”.

Faith may be caught and not taught, but faith also always seeks understanding.  Connected to God’s Word, we are always learning and growing in trust of our Lord and Savior.  Connected to God’s Word in the law, we come to understand the depth of our own sinfulness.  Connected to God’s Word in the gospel, we come to understand the breadth of Christ’s loving sacrifice for us.  Our understanding of the faith also always and only comes in connection to the Word of God.

Where as in subjects taught in school, we learn for a time then move on to something else, instruction in God’s Word is a lifelong endeavor.  Jesus commands and authorizes the church to baptize and teach “them to obey everything I commanded you.”(Matt. 28:19,20)  No one, no matter how smart, gifted or talented they may be can ever say “I have learned to obey everything  Jesus has commanded me”.  Once we begin our connection to the Word of God in baptism, our whole lives as disciples depend on ongoing connection to God’s Word.  If we are to live a life of discipleship- ones who follow Jesus, then it must be lived in connection to His Word and Sacraments.

As this school year begins, our time of instruction in God’s Word continues.  For those in 7th and 8th grade, a program aptly called “Life of Discipleship- instruction leading to Confirmation” begins Sunday evenings, September 13th at 6:30-8:00pm.  For those younger disciples, a wonderful Sunday School program has been developed to connect and engage Jesus little followers with His Word.  For adults, men and women, three Bible Studies exist to deepen your relationship with Jesus and others.  For all ages, our 8:00 and 10:30 Sunday Worship services remain a place and time to be connected to God’s Word and Sacraments.

May the Lord of the Church continue to lead us and guide us by His Holy Spirit through His Word on this life of Discipleship!