Punting

As I listened to the radio on my drive to Chicago, the DJ talked about the next song he was going to play which was “The Longest Time” by Billy Joel.  He is one of my favorite artists.  The DJ said Billy Joel had back up singers lined up to come into the studio the day he recorded this song.  The singers never arrived so he sang every one of the tracks to the song - all the harmonies and extra lines.  He had to punt to get it recorded in the allotted time.  Billy Joel’s talent, experience, knowledge and adrenaline kicked in, and it became a very popular song. 

As we begin another year of Sunday school and adult education in my congregation, I think about how many times I’ve had to punt when standing before a group - to do a prayer, to lead a devotion, to give announcements, even to do a Bible study.  What has helped me to do this and appear like I know what I’m doing and look like I have prepared to do this, is my talent, experience, knowledge and the adrenaline that kicks in. 

This is why I think it is so important for all of us to attend worship, a Bible study, Sunday school (yes, even adults), and do our devotions each and every day.  It is a solid foundation for when we are called upon to punt, especially in times when someone asks a question about our faith or why we even bother to go to church each week.  We don’t have to say, “Oh, I’ll get back to you on that.”  We can speak from our heart and from our brain and from our gut. 

So, I encourage you to get involved, or stay involved, in a faith community.  Study and read.  Pray and journal.  Live your faith and love your faith.  The outcome is amazing. 

If you are near Messiah Lutheran Church in Brownsburg, Indiana, I encourage you to come to our Sunday school kick-off this Sunday featuring an excellent worship service at 9am that highlights children leading some of the singing and dismissal, adults and youth sharing a bit of their faith story for the sermon and a blend of contemporary and traditional music.  Stay for the picnic.  Jump in the bounce house.  Build relationships with God’s people.