Faith often begins with longing—a desire to see, to know, and to be sure that God is real and present. This longing is not a weakness, but a holy yearning that lives in each of us, whether we are young or old. Especially at moments like confirmation, we find ourselves asking: Am I ready? Where is God in my life? The journey of faith is not about having all the answers, but about being willing to step forward, trusting that God is already with us and will continue to be.
Claiming faith for ourselves is a deeply personal step. It cannot be forced or inherited; it must be chosen. Like Moana standing at the edge of the reef, we may not have all the explanations, but we sense there is more ahead. The questions, the searching, and the hunger to see and be seen by God are all part of the sacred journey. Growth in faith often happens quietly, through small acts of courage and participation, and sometimes we only recognize it in hindsight.
God is not distant or hidden away. Jesus tells us that to see him is to see the Father—God shows up in everyday love, in acts of justice, and in communities where everyone is welcome. Sometimes, God’s presence is found in unexpected places: a conversation at the bank, a community celebration, or a simple act of kindness. Like Lucy in the Chronicles of Narnia, we are called to notice God’s fingerprints in the ordinary, to see what others might overlook.
Children have a special gift for seeing the sacred in the small and the holy in the ordinary. On this day, as we celebrate both confirmation and Children’s Day, we are reminded to approach faith with childlike openness and wonder. Jesus promises that we are never left alone; the Holy Spirit is our advocate, companion, and teacher. The Spirit is not just a gentle presence, but one that transforms, reveals truth, and binds us together across every boundary.
The peace Jesus gives is not the absence of hardship, but the assurance of belonging and being seen. Even in times of uncertainty or doubt, the Spirit remains with us, whispering that we are loved and never alone. Confirmation is not the end, but a milestone in a lifelong journey—a journey marked by courage, love, and trust in God’s abiding presence.
Key Takeaways
- Holy Longing and Sacred Questions
The desire to see and know God is a sacred longing, not a sign of weakness. Our questions and uncertainties are part of the journey, drawing us deeper into relationship with God. Faith is not about having all the answers, but about being willing to step forward with open hearts and trust. [00:36]
- Faith Must Be Claimed, Not Forced
True faith cannot be imposed or inherited; it must be chosen freely. Like Moana at the edge of the reef, we may not fully understand what lies ahead, but we sense the call to step into a larger story. Growth in faith often comes through small acts of courage and willingness to participate, even when we feel unprepared. [03:23]
- God’s Presence in the Ordinary
God often reveals Himself in everyday moments—through acts of kindness, community, and unexpected encounters. We are called to notice these subtle signs, recognizing that God is not distant but present in the ordinary details of our lives. Like Lucy in Narnia, we must learn to see what others might miss. [06:28]
- The Spirit’s Transforming and Inclusive Work
The Holy Spirit is not just a comforting presence, but one who transforms, reveals truth, and unites us across all boundaries. This Spirit brings a liberating truth that affirms every person’s place at God’s table, regardless of background or label. Pentecost reminds us that the Spirit is poured out on all people, inviting us into a community of peace and belonging. [08:20]
- Peace and Belonging Amid Uncertainty
The peace Jesus offers is not the absence of trouble, but the assurance that we are seen, cherished, and never alone. Even when we face doubts or step into the unknown, the Spirit remains with us, whispering that we belong and are loved. Our journey of faith is marked by this peace, which gives us courage to follow and grace to love. [09:20]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - The Longing to See and Know God
[01:19] - Confirmation: Am I Ready?
[02:02] - Growth Through Participation
[03:23] - Claiming Faith for Ourselves
[04:20] - The Sacredness of Questions
[05:08] - God Revealed in Everyday Love
[05:59] - Church as Community
[06:28] - Noticing God in the Ordinary
[07:45] - Children’s Day: Seeing with New Eyes
[08:20] - The Spirit: Advocate and Companion
[09:20] - The Gift of Peace and Belonging
[10:19] - Scholarships and Future Peacemakers
[11:03] - The Spirit’s Assurance in Uncertainty
[12:00] - Closing Prayer and Sending
