When teaching confirmation class, I began a custom of asking the students, usually in the grade range from 6th to 9th, what their “highs and lows” for the day were. I loved the variety of answers. They ran the gamut from getting an A on my math test (high, obviously) to forgetting my homework (low). Confirmation instruction for us Lutherans these days is more about shaping their faith in preparation for adulthood. Is it really going to help them in life to be able to recite the third article of the Apostle’s Creed in Luther’s Small Catechism, including its meaning? We realize, sometimes grudgingly kicking and screaming, that that ship has sailed. Doctrine and Lutheran theology are all well and good and can still inform our faith. But it is the stuff of every day 21st Century problems that requires our utmost attention for the sake of our young ones.

We are pretty good at being faithful in times of plenty, even in times of want. But what about the non-descript, in-between times? When all other supporting networks crumble and shatter, there is our God, ready to save. It is wonderfully, strangely empowering to admit we DON’T have all the answers. That is, after all, the very essence of faith. Faith is always active, even in waiting. Waiting is never a state of inertia when God is invited in. Faith cancels out worry. The trusting is in the knowing that God is in control.

The in-between times are like the cruising portion of a plane, train or bus ride. As a passenger we have total confidence in our driver, who after all gets paid to ensure our safe passage. We might even catch a little nap during the ride. It is that “anytime, anywhere” faith that often gets overlooked in in-between times. We pray when the plane takes off, and when it is about to land. Faith is always a muscle that needs to be exercised and strengthened. It is a lifestyle intended to help us in the “lows” and “in-betweens”.  Building up a reserve of faith helps us when the crises occur. Faith is the daily “booster shot” that keeps our immune system vibrant and healthy. In these times – the middle of the year, the summer, the month – it does feel like an “in-between” time in the cycle of the church life. In our congregation, hardly any meetings of ministry happen. People take long vacations. It is a period when faith can grow. It is a special time to experience the unconditional love of God. Take comfort from the fact that there have been many in-between periods in the life of God’s people. God is never silent or absent. Grab hold of that sure and certain promise!

Pastor Art