Pilot Knob Lutheran Church Communique
September 9, 2026
Responding to questionable behavior can be more spontaneous and reactionary than thoughtful and informed. After we Recognize (Communique 8/12) and Relate (Communique 8/26) we will be in a far better position to respond with grace, patience and humility. Not with immediate correction, teaching or preaching. Young people don’t always look for immediate answers as much as they are looking for someone to be present with them. Remember the three friends of Job who came and sat with him in his profound grief and said nothing for a week. Best support he had until they began preaching at him and correction his ‘faulty thinking.’
How should we respond? With grace; humility, empathy, consistency, truth and love. What do our children and youth need particularly from parents, but other adults they look up to? Someone who will fight for them, advocate for them, believe in them, encouraging them and consistently loving them. Picture yourself speaking life, resilience and hope into a hurting or wounded youth.
Does a response with grace require we compromise truth? No, that is not grace or love. People, young and old alike are wanting truth, structure, and consistency even when they act like they don’t want any part of it.
All of this builds trust and respect, opening the door to build together a game plan for a safer and healthier life.
Next: the last R; Refer.
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way:
Sunday 13, 9:00 Morning worship. Sermon:
Sunday school begins for everyone September 20. Confirmation September 23.
Past communiques and sermons can be read and heard on our website: www.pilotknob.org and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilotKnobLutheran
Our service also airs on: KGLO 1300 AM at 10:00 AM, and KIOW 107.3 FM at 7:00 AM. Spread the word.
Isaiah 55:10-11 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve thepurpose for which I sent it.
