Henry’s Glory: A Story for Discovering Lasting Significance in Your Daily Work

by John Pletcher

Publisher:

Resource Publications

, 2013

Overview

Ever wonder if your daily work really matters? Do you wish your career could truly connect with Christ's mission and the bigger story he's writing every day? Is it possible for you to find deeper satisfaction in your job, greater integration of your faith in your daily work, and stronger connections with co-workers, clients, and other work contacts? In Henry's Glory, Zach and Maggie face a critical crisis in both family and their careers. Old spiritual "ghosts" haunt Zach's psyche, based on his larger-than-life uncle's narrow view of the kind of work that truly glorifies God. Transported across their journey of discovery by a classic old pickup truck and several wise but oh-so-quirky characters, Zach and Mags embark on an intriguing quest for a real sense of calling and greater life purpose in their everyday work. Their story of discovery proves stunning, provocative, and forever perspective-changing. Join the adventure of personal discovery in this captivating story. Henry's Glory supplies a robust blend of humor, biblical/spiritual inspiration, history, romance, mystery, and thought-provoking reflection questions for personal study and group discussion.

Praise for Henry’s Glory

"Henry's Glory, while being a great story, has lots for us to learn in how we approach our work. I encourage you to read it and follow the questions suggested between chapters. . . . It will put joy in your heart and a sense of worth in all that you do. When you finish, you will be well on your way to a fulfilling, integrated life in Christ."
--Ken Eldred, Author of The Integrated Life

"I always felt that my work had meaning. I just did not realize the potential for mission that was surrounding me every day. . . . I now look for ways that I can make a positive contribution to the world through my work--from the simple act of redirecting a negative conversation to discussing the Bible with a colleague. I feel more comfortable sharing my faith and being a positive example for others in my workplace."
--Michelle Daggett, Mathematics teacher, Donegal High School

"Like a well-crafted novel, I was drawn in by the story, which moves with pace and interesting characters, but Pletcher gives us so much more. The sustained impact of Henry's Glory is the way in which marketplace leaders are encouraged and motivated to see their work as their worship to God. Don't treat this as another novel, it's a life-shaping experience."
--Craig Sider, President, The New York City Leadership Center

"To know and serve Jesus is essential to the Christian life. I love how Dr. Pletcher stirs up our desire to serve Christ in the workplace. This book will challenge you to do exactly that--wherever you work and whatever you do each day."
--Doug Funk, Vice President, D.H. Funk and Sons LLC

"Despite the Apostle Paul's teaching that everyone in the body of Christ is needed, many Christians see themselves as inferior contributors to the life of the body. . . . Henry's Glory . . . not only debunks this insidious belief, but also provides a proven way for church leaders to help all Christians know and live out their God-given value within the body of Christ."
--Paul D. Borden, Author of Make or Break Your Church in 365 Days

"Henry's Glory adds a helpful, believable narrative to the growing body of literature on the relationship of faith and work. John is a gifted writer who knows how to communicate important theological concepts through interesting and accessible narrative. I hope students of business and theology, as well as workplace leaders everywhere, will seriously consider reading and implementing the captivating vision John presents!"
--Don J. Payne, Associate Professor of Theology and Christian Formation, Denver Seminary

"I wholeheartedly recommend this Christ-honoring, creative resource. Henry's Glory will prove thought-provoking and deeply motivating for pastors, small groups, and students everywhere. Enjoy the story and join God in your workplace! You will experience a serious jump-start to everyday, missional living."
--Alan Robinson, National Director of the Brethren, Christ Church in the U.S.

"Pletcher has offered a marvelous example of my favorite kind of writing, a compelling story that communicates deeper truths. . . . I would encourage small groups to read and study this book together, if for no other reason than that most churches aren't talking about this, and should be."
--Anthony L. Blair, President, Evangelical Seminary, Pennsylvania

"John challenges the conventional thinking that in order for our daily work to have significance, it must flow from or through an organized religious entity. Through the story of a young man's quest for meaning and purposeful living, he helps us see the importance of our individual role in God's big story. Our daily work is a key component for impacting others in some of the most meaningful ways."
--Tracy Seiger, Realtor, Prudential Homesale Services

"Regardless of one's profession, the story inspires us to not compartmentalize between the sacred and secular, but instead to participate in 'God's original intention for creation to involve healthy, creative work.'"
--Dale R. Yoder, AIA, President, Cornerstone Design Architects

"Soak up this story! Henry's Glory offers a fresh perspective on the purpose and value of work, challenging assumptions about what is sacred and what is secular. If you've ever wondered if there is meaning and lasting value in what you do every day, I highly recommend it!"
--John Cox, Executive Vice President, Turkey Hill Dairy

Product Details

• Title : Henry’s Glory: A Story for Discovering Lasting Significance in Your Daily Work
• Author: Pletcher, John
• Publisher: Resource Publications
• Publication Date: 2013
• ISBN: 9781630871321

About the Author

John Elton Pletcher (DMin, Denver Seminary) serves as Lead Pastor at Manor Church in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He also teaches as adjunct faculty for Eastern University and Evangelical Seminary.