Yesterday in our congregation we welcomed and celebrated the youth of our confirmation class who joined the church. Their parents and grandparents are proud of their accomplishment, as is the church family who supported, guided, and prayed for them through the years. It was a joyful day for all—one we hope and pray the youth will remember all of their lives. Each youth who joined was presented with a beautiful blanket that was knitted by the women of the church. Truly, they are covered with our love and prayers.
After inviting us to “rid ourselves” of sin, “come to Christ” and “grow in salvation” the author of First Peter then tells us why we make that journey: to proclaim the mighty acts of God. The goal of our spiritual journey is proclamation, sharing in word and deed the good news of Jesus Christ. God calls us to service as well as salvation.
Well done, confirmation youth! Yesterday was an important step in the journey of faith. Others will surely follow. As you publicly professed your faith in Jesus Christ and promised to be active and engaged in the life and work of the church, you reminded us all that God calls us to turn from sin, believe in Jesus, and grow in faith for the purpose of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ. May your proclamation and our proclamation in word and deed bring joy, hope, peace, light, love, and life to all the world!
