So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:6-7

This year at Springfield Lutheran School, students all year will be reflecting on those words to the church at Colossae. In the passage, St. Paul compares our life of faith to a tree with roots that extend into Christ Jesus.

Roots do several things for trees. Roots nourish the tree with water and nutrients. Roots anchor the tree, so that it does not fall over through storm, wind, or flood. And finally, roots sustain and strengthen the tree, so that it can flourish and produce fruit.

Our life together in Christ does all of these things for us as well! Through Word and Sacrament, we are nourished with the life-giving body and blood of Christ Jesus. He cleanses us from all sin, and through his word gives us the rich spiritual food we need to grow and thrive. Our lives need nothing more than the word and forgiveness of Jesus! But Jesus also anchors us in the truth, making sure we know what is right from wrong, and making sure that no evil can deceive or harm us. Rooted and nourished by Jesus and His word, we then are sustained and strengthened to produce the fruit of faith in this world. We love and serve others as Christ has first loved us!

The Fall at Redeemer will be filled with opportunities for you to extend your roots even further to receive the nutrients Christ gives. New Bible Study opportunities are available at both campuses of Redeemer, including a New member class at each campus. Bible giveaway classes are being offered to 2nd grade families, and children’s Catechisms for 3rd graders will be offered later this year as well. Family midweek will resume with curriculum for both children and parents. The full slate and schedule of Middle School and High School programming is being offered, including our Redeemer Youth Retreat. SLS and Redeemer Nixa Preschool families will continue to receive the words of Christ daily in their classrooms. The Fall women’s retreat is almost here. September will conclude with the annual Faith and Friends Festival in Nixa. We will serve the community through Trunk or Treats. And most importantly, Christ himself will meet us in Divine Service each Sunday morning.

So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him!

Pastor Jarod Koenig
Senior Pastor
Pastor of Family Discipleship