In ch. 5 of this book, Dr. Lathrop begins a little catechism for the pastor. Really, he is doing exactly as Luther did almost 500 years ago when he called on pastors to relearn and study the basics of the Creed, Commandments, Sacraments and Office of the Keys. In Lathrop's words, to learn them "by heart."
Starting from the Creed, pastors are called into a life of study, but really into a life of "delight," or curiosity and interests (pp. 100f). The first article, "I believe in God the Father, the Creator...," is a reminder to follow our curiosity and interests in creation: people, books, sciences, fiction, creatures, environment, painting, art, languages, etc. It is a call to "work hard, indeed. You need to do so. But then let that gospel call you to rest. Take time off, sabbath time" (p. 103) like the Creator did on the seventh day. Sabbath time is meant to help us pay attention and to find new delights.
He uses the second article, "I believe in Jesus Christ, God's Son, our Lord..." as a call to continue serious study of theology, church, and related thoughts. It is a call to immerse ourselves in the Bible. It is a call to constantly ask ourselves, "Why did Jesus die?" or "How does Jesus' death and resurrection speak to this situation?"
Finally, the third article, "I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints..." is a call to be engaged in a life and rhythm of prayer, connecting us to our God, to the whole Church, and to our own assembly and people.
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