Tonight I attended a friend’s confirmation and when I arrived home, the Bible opened here:

Therefore, brothers, since through the blood of Jesus we have confidence of entrance into the sanctuary by the new and living way he opened for us through the veil, that is, his flesh, and since we have “a great priest over the house of God,” let us approach with a sincere heart and in absolute trust, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water.  Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for he who made the promise is trustworthy.  We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works.  We should not stay away from our assembly, as is the custom of some, but encourage one another, and this all the more as you see the day drawing near.

Hebrews 10:19-25

I can feel the Spirit rushing around us!

Tonight I watched 40 teenagers enter into the church, become adults in the church.  Let us rouse them to love and do good works.

I used to think I did not need the church or other people to find God.  Maybe not.  But it sure helps to have others encouraging us, praying with us, strengthening us.  “We should not stay away from our assembly” but “encourage one another.”  Oh, you teenagers who are just entering the church, I pray that you find comfort, encouragement, and strength in the assembly that God has gathered in His church.  Consider it not an obligation, but a home,  a family, God’s family.  Your role in it is so important!  Do not stay away!

Lord, help me to encourage others as those you have sent around me, encourage me.  Give me a sincere heart — a clean heart — wiped clean from my sins! My hope and my trust is in you! Send me your spirit, oh Lord!