One Year Ago

One year ago from today we were making plans for a busy year. It has proved to be a busy/crazy year. Of course, this coming year will be just as busy/crazy. Last year we were planning on a transition from being a pastor of a church to a military Chaplain. With this transition there have been many changes.

Of course, one of the biggest changes is geographically. We left Virginia and went to South Carolina for three months. Then we headed to the "hill country" of Texas. I would not exactly call it "hill country." There are some hills but a lot more flat land. One of the things that we have noticed is the fact that bushes are taller than the trees, really. I would have never believed it if I had not seen it myself. When we look at some of the vegetation we scratch our heads wondering if it is a short tree or a tall bush?!?!

One of the biggest changes for me is not holding services. Ever since I left Menokin, in June, I have only preached twice. Going from preaching every Sunday to twice in six months is quite a difference. Once I get down range I will have more opportunities to preach. I must say that I am looking forward to that.

Family time is very different now. I used to be home for all three meals in a day, but since I have been in the Army I have only been home for all three meals when I am on leave. This has been a big transition for all three of us. I think that we are getting a little more used to this but we still like being together so we miss that time that we are missing out on each other.

It has been different moving away from the people we have really strong bonds with. We have not had enough time to make those bonds here. Laura, Victoria and I have made connections, but not like the ones we left. I know that in time we will, but it makes us aware of how blessed we are. We miss you all and thank God for you all!

There are so many things that happened over the last year that it would be like writing a novel to write about it all. However, we are thankful to God that He has been with us along the narrow path. We are thankful for all the family and friends that support us through prayer. I personally believe that this past year has been a time of preparation for what is to come in 2009.

Ministry in the Army is very different from ministry in the church. I enjoy what I do and I am thankful that my calling is ministry. Please be in prayer for my soldiers, their safety, their salvation, their marriages, etc. Even though you do not know them by name, you can lift them to the Father who knows their name and need intimately. Together we will have a fruitful ministry to our men and women in uniform.

Happy New Year!