Faith family roots run 150 years deep for Bethlehem Lutheran

Isaiah 11:10 NIV
“10 In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting-place will be glorious.”
Jesus is the Root of Jesse, the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. From him all things were created and came into being. This time of the year we celebrate Pentecost Sunday, and now Holy Trinity Sunday, where we witness the love of God coming to us through the Holy Spirit.
The root of a faith family is an important part of who we are as a community. Those gathered around each other as a family care for each other, offer help, love, and a way to share what we have received.
As a faith family, the roots at Bethlehem Lutheran in Hills are 150 years deep. Our community comes from long lines of people who have stood up for each other and continue to support each other by worshiping together, supporting different programs that provide for the needs of others, and doing what Jesus would do!
It is not enough to claim you are a Christian with words. You need to back those words up with action.
James 2:14-17 NIV “14 What good is it, my brothers, and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
As we gather for celebrations this summer, let us remember that we come from deep roots, the root of Jesse. Let that root spring up in us as hope eternal. Remember where you have come from, remember those who came before you and made life easier for you. Renew your commitment to your faith family, be there for others, support others and use your God-given gifts to the best of your ability. Rejoice that you have a place to call home where the love of God still thrives! Be fearless in your desire to make life better for those around you, and thank God every single day for all that you have; rejoice and celebrate all that you have been given!
Be the shining star for others. Follow the example of James and care for your brothers and sisters, whoever they may be!