(The image, Rooted in Christ, was created by ChatGPT)

 

Rooted. Built. Overflowing.

By Dr. Al Hearne II

Colossians 2:6-7, “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”

Paul reminds the Colossians that receiving Christ is merely the starting point of their Christian journey. First, they heard the teachings of Jesus.  Then they accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Now, just as a tree sends its roots deep for nourishment, they are to continually grow, allowing their roots to grow deeper and deeper into Christ.

The Christian life is both planted and progressing. To be “rooted” means your source of life is already secure in Jesus. To be “built up” means you are not done growing; you are under construction, thought by thought, word by word, habit by habit. To be “strengthened in the faith” means your convictions mature through God’s Word, fellowship, and obedience. And as these roots, walls, and foundations hold firm, gratitude naturally overflows. Thanksgiving is not forced; it is the fruit of a heart nourished in Christ.

You were not made to stay shallow or shaky. You were made to be rooted, built, and overflowing in Jesus.

Application

This week, consider these daily spiritual disciplines as opportunities for growth and transformation. Recognize that these are not mere tasks, but Spirit-empowered practices that strengthen your spiritual journey. Ask yourself daily: What am I drawing strength from: Christ or something else? Is what I’m consuming (media, conversations, thoughts) nourishing my roots or weakening them? Write down one way you will replace empty fuel with Christ-centered nourishment. Consider incorporating family worship, listening to Christian music, or reading Bible stories together as a family. These spiritual disciplines can offer nourishment and support your spiritual growth.

At the same time, practice gratitude. Each night, record something you can thank God for. Gratitude is not just an add-on. Gratitude is the overflow of a life rooted in Him.

Reflection - Ask your children to reflect upon the following questions:

• What does it mean to be “rooted” in Jesus?
• How is being “built up” like building a house or tower?
• Why do you think Paul connects being strong in faith with being thankful?

Growth in Action

Living in Christ is not abstract, it shows up in what we do together as families. When Paul says to be rooted, built, and overflowing, he calls us to practice faith in ways that take hold in our daily rhythms. These small, intentional steps help faith move from words into lived experience.

• Draw a picture of a tree with deep roots or a building on a strong foundation. As a family, label the roots or bricks with habits that keep you close to Jesus (prayer, Scripture, worship, kindness). For teens, invite them to co-create the list by suggesting additional 'bricks' that address their real-life pressures and experiences. This collaborative step can enhance their sense of ownership and make the activity more relevant to their lives. Discuss how each habit can help them face peer pressure or navigate real-life situations at school. For families with limited time, simplify the activity by focusing on a single root or brick and talk about its significance during a short family meeting.
• With younger children, focus on one phrase: “Stay close to Jesus.” Repeat it throughout the week whenever they face challenges.
• With older children, discuss how being "rooted" helps them resist peer pressure or stay steady when life feels challenging. Consider using these questions to spark more meaningful discussions: What are some common challenges teens face today, and how can being grounded in faith help to overcome them? Can you share a situation where you had to rely on your faith to make a difficult decision? How do you think being 'rooted in Christ' can influence your friendships and the choices you make?
• Around the dinner table, share one moment from the day when you felt thankful to God, and one way you saw Him building you up. For families who find it challenging to share meals together, consider alternative moments that fit your routine, such as sharing thankfulness during car rides or at bedtime. These flexible options ensure that the practice remains accessible and becomes a meaningful part of your daily life.

These actions may seem simple, but over time they deepen our roots, strengthen our foundations, and fill our homes with gratitude. Growth in Christ is cultivated little by little, until thankfulness becomes the natural overflow of our lives.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for rooting us in Christ and giving us a solid foundation in Him. Help us continue to grow, build, and strengthen our faith each day. Help us resist false voices and instead draw our nourishment from Jesus. Let our hearts overflow with gratitude as we live in Him. May our lives be steady, strong, and filled with gratitude, as we show the world what it means to walk with Christ. In Jesus' Name, Amen.