I'm occasionally asked how often I have to go to school. My
program has me going to Orlando 1 week in January and 1 week in July for
classroom time. Other than that, my studies consist of reading books, listening
to lectures, writing papers and interacting with classmates over the internet.
This summer I really appreciated my week at school. We had a counseling lab day
on Saturday, which was very scary at the outset, but turned out to be quite an
awakening experience. We took turns playing the role of counselor, counselee,
and observer. During the day, it was hard not to recognize that God has worked
through experiences in my life to reveal Himself to others.
As we would go out to eat with each other, I realized many of my
classmates are in similar positions I am. We are men (and 2 women this
semester) who are working in professional ministry who desire a better
education in order to serve the Lord more effectively. We are from all around
the country, and even have a few internationals. I have classmates in China,
Australia, Peru, and all over the United States. While we were at school, one
of my classmates was constantly on the phone one day, as Turkey was going through
a coup. He is on the mission field in Istanbul. It was another reminder that we
need to pray for and encourage our brothers and sisters in Christ around the
world.
As many of you know, my wife, Carrie, has started full-time
ministry again in the interim as Hebron is assessing the youth pastor role. The
first few weeks were difficult as we had to reshuffle our schedules and balance
parenting, ministry, and school. We have come to a good place, thanks to
friends and family encouraging and helping us out. I heard a story at school
from a classmate and friend who is Asian and an endocrinologist. His wife told
him she needed him to get a B. He was working too hard at school and work and
not spending enough time with his wife and child. It was a difficult proposal
for him, but he heard the message clearly. I, too, sometimes need to recognize
my priorities and sacrifice grades for the good of my family.
You can continue to pray for the Hendricksons. Soren starts
kindergarten, Paisley is in 3rd grade, and Cortina makes that jump to Linton as
a 5th grader. Pray for Carrie and the youth ministry at Hebron as they continue
the transition. You can also pray for me, as I am starting Greek this fall. I
am also taking Covenant Theology. I'm excited about these courses, but really
nervous about learning a new language. It is a privilege to serve at Hebron,
and I can't thank you enough for your support.
