Pastor Hendricks

Pastor's Message

September 2010

To the Children of God at Emmanuel:

Psychologists tell us that when we are under pressure from the stress of life that we often revert to behavior that is very childish or reflective of our truest nature. When I am even a little bit honest with myself I can see that played out in my own behavior at times. This may even play out in our understanding of God. This kind of thinking had me wondering about the biblical passages I turn to when I am under stress or very tired. Shouldn’t they reflect something about my very raw and basic faith? Here is the list of my top five biblical passages that I cling to:

  1. Isaiah 49:11-16a [KJV] [NRSV] [NLT]
  2. Deuteronomy 6:4-8 [KJV] [NRSV] [NLT]
  3. 2 Corinthians 4:5-18 [KJV] [NRSV] [NLT]
  4. Matthew 22:36-40 [KJV] [NRSV] [NLT]
  5. 1 Peter 2:9-10 [KJV] [NRSV] [NLT]

There are certainly many other biblical passages that I also like to read and hear. However, the above five have been those that speak deeply to me in ways I don’t fully understand. I find that they comfort me, but also challenge me. I suspect they reflect something of what many refer to as “core” values. Those are values that define us and give us a sense of purpose and mission in life and from which much of our actions and behavior come from as we walk this planet. They are values that are at the very heart of our being. Individuals and congregations all have these core values. Lately, I have been wondering if my core values connect to some of the core values of Emmanuel’s core values. What do you think or believe?

That is an important question to consider as February, 2011 comes closer for all of us. Will you want me to continue to walk with you as the pastor at Emmanuel when my two year term comes to a close? If our core values are too far apart it may mean you, as God’s children, may wish to find a leader who reflects more of who you are.

God be with you as you continue this journey on earth. I kneel before God and you as a people. Peace be with you.

One of Christ’s servants,

David - Child of God

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