Growing in Christ!

by Mona Hunter

School is about to start! Everything from crayons to cars is being advertised as necessary for preparation for school. What is the advertised goal for having all these things?– A good education of course in order to prepare for a good life! While we know that the ads are just gimmicks for companies to make money, our goal for school is to learn more so that we can make our lives better.

The goal of Sunday School is a bit different. We should strive to learn all we can about God and His love for us so that He can make our lives better– both now and in eternity. That is what Growing in Christ is all about.

Now, think about your progress. If you were being graded for Growing in Christ like a regular school subject, what do you think your grade would be? This school only gives out pass or fail grades, however. Pass if you believe in Jesus and His gift of salvation and live like you believe it. Fail if you cheat and just to pretend to believe Jesus is the only way to live today and tomorrow. And these pass or fail grades have eternal consequences.

Maybe we make it too easy or our advertisements aren't slick enough because attendance has been dropping in most of our Sunday School classes that would help us learn more about God. But even when God has had ‘slick' advertisements– like parting the Red Sea or rising from the dead or healing a loved one, we don't answer the ad. We may utilize and support our public education systems that help us better our lives, but we neglect God's Heart education system that Grows us in Christ and nurtures our eternal life.

The beginning of public schools and colleges usually signals the beginning of new Sunday School classes, too. All of our churches are eager to provide school for all ages. And it's free!! The only school supplies you need are a willing heart and a commitment to attend class.

Check the announcements under each church to find a class for you or if you don't see one, help us get one started. Just call the Lone Wolf office for materials, scheduling or support. And finally, please pray that God will make us all eager to Grow in Christ.

(Growing in Christ is the curriculum name for LCMS Sunday School materials.)