10 Things I Wish I Had Learned from My Dad from the Catechism

Build upon the foundation

You are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus him self as the chief cornerstone (Eph 2:20).

Take a shower daily

What does baptizing with water mean? Baptism means that the old Adam in us should be drowned by daily contrition and repentance, and that all its evil deeds and desires be put to death. It also means that a new person should daily arise to live before God in righteousness and purity forever. (The Meaning of Baptism for Our Daily Life)

Eat healthy

What blessing do we receive through this eating and drinking? That is shown us by these words: “Given” and “poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins” Through these words we receive forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation in this sacrament. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation. (The Blessings of Holy Communion)

Don’t just stand there

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. (Gen 3:6)

Marry above yourself

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Gen 2:18)

The ministry is difficult

What is the use of the keys? The use of the keys is that special power and right which Christ gave to his church on earth: to forgive the sins of penitent sinners but to refuse forgiveness to the impenitent as long as they do not repent. (The Keys)

One little word

Though devils all the world should fill, All eager to devour us, We tremble not, we fear no ill; They shall not overpow’r us. This world’s prince may still Scowl fierce as he will, He can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done! One little word can fell him. (CW 200:3)

The faith of a child

Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matt 18:13)

Pray or paddle

Our Father in heaven. What does this mean? With these words God tenderly invites us to believe that he is our true Father and that we are his true children, so that we may pray to him as boldly and confidently as dear children ask their dear father. (The Address of the Lord’s Prayer)

Funerals simplify things

I believe in the Holy Spirit; the Holy Christian Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen. (The Third Article)