a brief reflection on Absolution in our Lutheran Confessions

From our Lutheran Confessions:

"the preachers on our side diligently teach that confession is to be retained because of absolution...for the comfort of terrified consciences and because of other reasons." (AC XXV.13)

Two things strike me as I reread this today: 

1) The preachers of the Church of the Augsburg Confession (true Lutherans, in other words), they teach the people diligently about Absolution.  It's one thing to teach about something, but it's altogether more intense, more intentional to teach something "diligently".  There was a focus, a plan, there was a goal that the Lutheran preachers had in mind.  Specifically, that goal was the retention of Private Absolution (here called 'confession').  Which brings me to my next reflection on this statement. 

2) The preachers were so intense and intentional about retaining Private Absolution because of: a) "the comfort of terrified consciences," and b) "other reasons."  What were those other reasons?  Just in the short amount of time that we have been posting regular hours for Absolution, I've recognized a few of these "other reasons."  First, the relationship between the pastoral office and parishioner is enriched.  This really can't be helped.  The parishioner is trusting the pastoral office (and so, is trusting Christ) with, not only the secrets of the heart, but the dirty secrets of the heart, the sin.  The penitent is releasing those secrets in a real, tangible way: to a man.  But not only to any man, to the man in the pastoral office.  No matter which specific man is in the pastoral office, those parishioners who make use of this Blessed gift (dare I say "Sacrament", like the Confessions say) are strengthening their relationship with the pastoral office in this place.  And that's a good relationship to have strong.  After all, the pastor is one who is steward of your soul, who also must give an account for your soul on the last great day.  The more you open up to the pastor, the better is He able to do what He is called to do: to care for you individually.  This is certainly a worthy "other reason."  

The other thing I've noticed in the life of those who receive Private Absolution, is the increase of spiritual insight (I don't know what to call it); being "in tune" and focused on things spiritual.  Perhaps this is just more of an observation at this point, rather than a theological point.  Of course, the more 'spiritually observant' you are, the more you see your need for the Savior and the more you are drawn to repentance.  And, as Luther said in the first of the 95 Theses, "the whole life of the Christian is one of repentance." 

And these are just drops in the ocean of the "other reasons", or other blessings that Private Absolution gives to you.  Chief among them, of course, is the absolution, the forgiveness of sins.   Come for the main thing first, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then see all these other things come to you as well. 

Peace be with you.