CONFIRMATION CLASS
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. Romans 12:1-3 (New International Version
It was about 70 years ago when I started pestering my Dad (also my pastor) about joining the church. I really wanted to do this. The church was my family from Uncle Charlie and Aunt Ruth Burden who took care of me while Dad conducted worship and Mom played the organ, to Mr. Tyers who painted the church doors while I watched (and probably asked too many questions). Dad finally relented, but made it very clear that there were requirements and I would have to fulfill them all.
One thing we all had to do was memorize the twelfth chapter of Romans. As the class came to the final weeks, we had to recite that chapter together. Today that would be very interesting, given the number of different translations and paraphrases available from which to study. Back then, King James Version was all we had. I committed the chapter to memory and I can still remember it today.
The part that stands out the most is in verse three. One of Dad’s often heard admonishments was, “Don’t think too highly of yourself.” It was a reminder that humility is an important character trait for Christians. So much about Confirmation class is still imprinted on my memory. I learned about the history of Methodism and the character of John Wesley and his family. I learned about the Bible and theological principles, the cost of discipleship.
Confirmation class has started for our youth seeking to make their way through the journey to commitment which will culminate in church membership. Let’s support our St. John’s kids with our prayers and by setting them a good example in everything from hospitality to humility and respect for the journey.
Lord of my life, please watch over the youth of our church and the new Confirmation Class at St. John’s. Help them to study, to learn, to fellowship and find their home among us as the Body of Christ, your church. In the name of Jesus, the Christ, we pray. Amen.
Sue Uzelmeier
