A Stephen Ministry Congregation

From the Principal January 2021

by Corey Brandenburger on January 01, 2021

Jesus reminded us in the 20th chapter of Matthew (vs. 28) that “the Son of Man came not be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  These words from our Savior are challenging to say the least, and they come right after a request by the mother of two of His disciples to sit at Jesus’ right and left hands in His kingdom.  And, much as we would probably react, the other disciples were “indignant”.  Undoubtedly, they weren’t indignant because they thought disciples should be more humble, but most certainly because they didn’t have the chance to ask for the honored position first.  Jesus doesn’t respond by telling the disciples who will get the desired spot.  Rather, he reminds them of His purpose, and ours.  Jesus was sent to serve, and because we are His, we are sent to serve.

The theme for National Lutheran Schools’ Week this year is SENT TO SERVE.  It is similar our school year theme, LOVE. SERVE. GROW.  As a congregation that operates a Lutheran school, we are part of an incredible tradition.  Lutheran schools such as ours are SENT TO SERVE.  When we review our annual mission plan (budget), we see that Jesus’ words to the disciples are words to us.  Lutheran schools are SENT TO SERVE.  They are sent to serve the families and the children that God lovingly guides to us.  Lutheran schools are SENT TO SERVE.  They are sending teachers into classrooms to nourish and strengthen baptismal faith and to encourage new baptisms as well.  Lutheran schools are SENT TO SERVE.  They are sent to serve students and families from diverse backgrounds as they remind them that Jesus loves each and every one, and that like Jesus, our Lutheran school was sent to serve them.  Lutheran Schools are SENT TO SERVE.  Our students and teachers and administration team look for ways each school year to serve our community.

Lutheran Schools are SENT TO SERVE.  They serve because Jesus served first.  They love because Jesus loved first.  Our little school is a missionary outpost that stands ready to continue to carry out the Great Commission.  Because Christ has given His life as a ransom for many, we are filled with excitement, urgency, and hope that our Lord will continue to bless us with opportunities to demonstrate how our Lutheran church and school has been SENT TO SERVE.  Thank you for continuing the long tradition of the LCMS as we celebrate our Lutheran school.  Your prayers, support, and financial gifts enable the workers, volunteers, students, and families here at Cross Lutheran Church and School, New Braunfels, Texas, to celebrate Jesus and His good and gracious gifts to us!  Thanks!  It’s a blessing to serve with YOU!

Sent to Serve, Corey Brandenburger, Principal

 

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