Confirmation 2007

Confirmation

May 6, 2007

Philippians 4:13

“I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me”

Introduction:  This is the day the Lord has made; we shall rejoice and be glad in it. Today is a special day in your life. It is a day you have no doubt looked forward to, it is a day your parents, and members of your family have been anticipating. I’m sure there have been many people close to you who have remembered you in their prayers.

None of us, you see, goes it alone in your Christian walk. We need each other, we need our Lord, of course, and we need the support of family, our friends. Together we walk the road of faith with our Savior.

The  passage of Scripture you have chosen speaks to us concerning our relationship with the Savior. Says St. Paul, “I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me” Now, to use Jessica’s answer she gave us last Sunday; technically, we can not do all things, because we’re sinners, weak, fallen, and frail. That’s why we need a Savior, and with Him by our side, directing our life, the possibilities are endless. 

I.        I can do all things

A.     You’ve been given talents, abilities, gifts.

1.      To be used in this world as witnesses of our Savior’s mercy and grace.

2.      For the good of our neighbor and the praise of our heavenly Father.

3.      In the next five years think of the decisions you will make and the opportunities you will be given. Take advantage of them.

B.     But there are some things you can’t do.

1.      Live a perfect life

2.      Please God and serve your neighbor perfectly

3.      Make atonement for your sin

Transition: Because of sin we fall short of the glory of God.  Return to Jesus who directs your life.

II.     Jesus is the One who give you Himself.

A.     Consider His work and life.

1.      He is your Lord and Savior

a.       Who broke into time and space when He was born in this world

b.      Who took your burdens, sins, cares, and trials

c.       Who suffered in your stead and broke free from the tomb on Easter to offer you His gifts.

(a)    Forgiveness

(b)   Life

(c)    Salvation.

2.      He is the One who orders your days.

a.       He knows your needs.

b.      He knows your desires.

c.       He knows your heart.

d.      He can read your thoughts.

e.       He has promised to meet those needs.

B.     All He asks of you is to dedicate your life to Him. This is what you are doing this day “Commit your life to Him, trust in Him and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Transition: Since Jesus has begun His work in you He will see it through to completion.

III.   He strengthens you.

A.     By His Word

1.      Read - In Holy Scripture.

2.      Taught - In Catechism and throughout your life.

3.      Preached – His timeless truths.

4.      Shared – As you give witness of Him by your life.

B.     By His means of grace – the Sacraments – marks of His love and affection.

1.      Baptism – where He called you by name to be His own.

2.      His meal – given to offer forgiveness, strength of faith, peace with God.

What more can be said other then Godspeed - Fair thee well child of god – Remember the things taught you, cling to that which is good. May the Savior direct you now and always.