Titus, your grandmother and I want to thank you for this past weekend. We were able to be part of both your examination and confirmation. And now we will take our free pass as grandparents to share some things with you. Actually we share this because we love you–a lot.

Listening to you at the examination, we were really impressed at how you answered all the questions. There was no hesitation as you confidently shared your faith and confidence in what God has done for you. It was obvious to us that you were prepared for what was coming your way.

We know, Titus, that you have not always been able to be prepared for what came at you in this life. We have watched as throughout your life you have adjusted to the ever-changing boundaries in how you live with your food allergies. Your grandmother and I often commented to each other how God has gifted you with patience in dealing with the limitations placed upon you. We have never heard you complain. We thank God for that patience as it will serve you well in life.

We have also seen your discipline in avoiding eating food that looks so good and are eaten by all those around you. Your ability to make the healthy choices, especially when you are not being watched by others is another gift for which your grandmother and I are thankful to God.

However, with your confirmation promise to stay faithful to your Savior and your faith, things became even more serious than a negative reaction to a food allergy. You are now a central target for Satan. I shudder as I picture him the way the Bible describes like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Lions often look for the young for their prey and Titus, as much as you know about the God’s Word, you are young in years and life experiences.

Titus, ever since your baptism, the Devil has closely watched you. He has kept track of your weaknesses. He knows the friends who could lead you away from your Savior–not in huge steps but gradually. He knows how to be right there when you are faced with two choices, one good and one sinful. Satan knows how to whisper and nudge and tempt you to just try a sin for a while.

However, there is the Good News that you already know. Your confirmation passage reminds you that no matter how crafty and dangerous the devil is, there is Jesus. And just so you know, the Devil knows this passage too. He just doesn’t believe it and wants you to doubt it too. I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12.

Titus, things in this world cannot grow without light. Through his word and sacraments, Jesus becomes the light your faith needs to grow.

Without light, we cannot see the blessings in our world or recognize the dangers. Through daily time in the Bible, Jesus empowers you to recognize what choices that will bring us closer to him.

Without light, we cannot see the path to take. As you walk with Jesus, you will be on a daily journey to your final home with him in Heaven.

Titus, we are not certain what you will end up doing with the rest of your life. There are many things to take apart. What we do know is Jesus loves you so much that he gave up his life for you. He will do whatever it takes to keep you as his child. And he will never give up. Jesus wants you to stay close to him and so he will also hold on to you.

Congratulations to you, Titus. We are proud of you and your promise to stay close to Jesus as your Savior. Please know you are always in our prayers. We can’t wait to see where you go in your walk with your Savior. We love you.

Grandma and Grandpa Cook

This song has grown very important to me. It describes the reality of how we stay close to our Savior.