Pastor’s Perspective:

March 2024

Pastor Paul Mattson

“March Madness” 

It’s that time of year again – tournament time – also known as “March Madness.” In the coming weeks high school boys and girls with take to the court, rink and mat to participate in State Tournament competitions; in the college ranks, the same thing. As these events unfold in the coming days there will no doubt be compelling storylines of victory and defeat; intriguing stories yet to be written and told. 

Here at Immanuel we tell the story, which is our own kind of “March Madness.” In the weeks to come, these too, are compelling stories of victory and apparent defeat. 

Jesus is God’s plan to get us back – to enjoy being in relationship and fellowship with God – today and for all eternity. In Jesus we see the length that God will go to get us back; he will go all the way to the cross to do so. Why? Because God is “mad” about you! 

“For God so loved the world (you) that he gave his only Son, so that everyone (you) who believes in him may not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) 

“But God proves his love for us (you) in that while we (you) were still sinners Christ died for us (you).” (Romans 5:8) 

To be clear, God is not mad AT you; but God is mad ABOUT you! From Webster’s, the word “mad” can be understood to mean “carried away by enthusiasm or desire” or “frantic” or “wild” or “illogical.” And such is the love God has for you! 

As much as sports tournaments are fun and exciting and enjoyable, may our journey through “March Madness” take on a new meaning be more profound as we keep our eyes on the cross, and listen again to the intriguing story of Father and a Son, together with the Holy Spirit, conspiring (madly) to get us back. 

“Incline your ear, and come to me; listen so that you may live.” (Isaiah 55:3a) 

Pastor Paul 

Immanuel’s Vision Statement 

A vibrant and diverse community of faith where lives are changed;
Where people of all ages are invited and challenged
To become disciples of Jesus in their daily lives;
Where real people experience healing, help, hope and harmony

 

Please contact the church office if you, or someone you know from Immanuel, with their permission, is in the hospital. Due to confidentiality laws, the hospital does NOT contact the church (or pastor) when they are admitted, even if they designate a specific church/pastor on the intake form. At Immanuel, we hope and strive to provide timely and appropriate pastoral care to those who would desire and appreciate it. Too often, we are last to know about a member being (or having been) in the hospital. Thank you!