Every year towards the end of September, there is a notice in my desk calendar that it is time to order a calendar notebook for the new year. I confess that I need the reminder, because in September I am not thinking much about the new year. In fact, with over three months to go I am pretty oblivious about the new year. Without the reminder it would probably be February before I thought to order a new desk calendar book. Often we need reminders in other parts of our lives. I can remember things that I read many years ago but can easily forget to post the letter in my pocket. Part of the function of worship in church is to remind us of the things that are most important. In a world full of various, and often false opinions, it is significant to be reminded of the true and righteous things which we should hold on to. The hymns and songs we sing can call back ideas and themes we may have neglected. The scriptures may remind us of the great truths of the gospel. The prayers of God’s people may inspire our own fervent prayers. Even preaching at its best may reintroduce us to the great themes of the faith. The cross, the candles, the open Bible may prompt us to remember Jesus’ sacrifice, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the power of the Word of God. If we need reminders in order to function well in our everyday life, how much more may we need reminders in our life of faith? Dear Lord, remind us again of the central ideas of the gospel that we may be effective Christians in your world.