Passing On The Element Of Faith

Passing On the Element of Faith

After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the LORD or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel.

Judges 2:10

You might be tempted to believe that little about the Amish way of life has changed over the years. But as the generations come and go, there are small changes to be seen. Some younger mothers use disposable diapers and buy items from a thrift store rather than make all their household items themselves. The older generation may watch such things and wonder, Is this a sign that the younger generation will become lazy about the foundations of their faith, too? Sometimes there is evidence of this—for example, during the singing of the Ausbund.

In an Amish congregation families do not sit together. Instead, women sit with women and men with men, and they section off according to age. Can you picture the disapproving glances from the older ones in the back rows when they witness the younger ones paying more attention to their seatmates than to the words of a hymn?

Many Amish elders complain of the decline of their faith as each generation gathers less to pass on to the next. And that concern isn’t exclusively Amish. We can easily point out ways the next generation is growing lazy, but when we consider our own role in guiding those who come after us, it is harder to point out others’ faults.

We are raising the church of tomorrow. How are we doing at guiding children and grandchildren to understand God and appreciate the elements of our faith? Here’s an idea: consider inviting a young person out to lunch to share what God has meant to you. As a bonus, read the words to your favorite hymn and talk about one reason it’s your favorite. Be intentional about passing on your legacy of faith.

If you don’t do this, who will?

Dear Lord, pointing out the faults of the younger generation is easy, but offering guidance and help is harder. Stir my heart and remind me that I leave an imprint on the future—for good or bad—through those who follow my example. Amen.