In today’s chapel service, SGA Chaplain Trey Storr preached a powerful sermon centered on the name of God: YHWH Tsidkenu, which translates to "The Lord is our righteousness." Drawing from Jeremiah 23:1-6, Storr reminded us that while earthly leaders often fail, God Himself, as our Shepherd, will never abandon His people. 

Storr began by addressing the harsh words spoken by the prophet Jeremiah against the shepherds of Israel. These leaders, who were supposed to lead God's people with righteousness and justice, failed miserably. Instead of guiding the people toward God, the kings of Israel and Judah led them into idolatry and spiritual ruin. In this sense, the shepherds failed in their calling, ultimately bringing destruction upon God's people. 

A shepherd, in biblical times, was expected to care deeply for his flock — leading them to safety, providing for their needs, and protecting them from harm. This image of a good shepherd was meant to be a reflection of how the kings should have led the nation. But instead, Israel's kings destroyed the people they were entrusted to lead. 

This failure set the stage for God's response. As Storr explained, the Lord declared that He would not leave His people in their brokenness. He Himself would be the Good Shepherd. God promised that a time would come when He would bring His people back from exile, restore them, and guide them in righteousness. This promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the true and ultimate Good Shepherd. 

Storr emphasized that while we still experience suffering, persecution, and exile in this broken world, we can take comfort in knowing that we have a Good Shepherd. In John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This is a profound assurance for Christians today. No matter the hardships we face, we are not alone. Jesus is with us, guiding us, protecting us, and leading us toward righteousness. 

The sermon also reminded us that our focus should not be on ourselves or our efforts, but on the work of God that has already been accomplished for us. As Storr said, “The call is not to do something but to remember the work of our God that’s already been done for us.” This truth is encapsulated in the name YHWH Tsidkenu — the Lord is our righteousness. In our failures, we can rest in the righteousness of God, which He provides through Christ. 

As Christians, we may still face struggles and challenges, but we are not without hope. As Storr concluded, "Although we struggle on this cursed earth, we can marvel at His beauty today just like we will for the rest of eternity." We look forward to a day when we will be in the presence of our Shepherd, marveling at His beauty forever. 

Today, we are reminded to look to the Good Shepherd, who has already accomplished the work of our salvation. He is with us now, and He will return to bring His people home. What a comfort this is in the midst of our trials!