FINAL STRETCH

Well folks, I would say that the end is in sight...but I cannot see the end because of the heavy coursework still to be accomplished!

Five classes/projects are remaining to meet the requirements set forth by the U.S. military in order to go on active duty as a chaplain. It has been crazy trying to complete a 4-year degree in under 3 years and if I had to plan things over again, I would plan differently! However, with God we know that all things are possible (as long as it is His will) if we forge ahead in His strength and not our own. I must confess that this academic journey has found me several times grunting... and snorting...my way through classes. However, it is in the moment of total frustration that I find God's grace is sufficient for me, and He was simply waiting for me to figure that out! Wow, things would be easier if I could remember that more often than I forget it.

As many of you are aware, I am transitioning from the Navy Chaplain Corps to the Army Chaplain Corps. The reasons are many but the foremost being the desire to minister with the "boots on the ground". As a Marine, my experiences were primarily with ground combat troops and in addition special operations. My desire is to be with those whom I "understand" and can relate to. The doors of opportunity can be greatly increased when common ground is seen from the start. The Army has several opportunities being offered to me that would capitalize on my past experiences and use them uniquely in ministry. I must admit that I am excited about these possibilities and look forward to realizing God's exact plan for our very near future.

Many ask where we might be stationed initially and the easy answer is "I dunno". We are assigned permanent duty stations based on the needs of the military. I will begin active duty with further military training at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, SC in January, 2008 but this will only be for a few short months. After this our family will be moved to our permanent duty station for the next three years. I will not find this out until at my military training following the new year. We are selfishly hoping that it is still in the south - we've been in Florida too long I guess.

I hope you all like the changes we are making to the website. Compliments to my brother, Matt, the web-dude. He has sacrificed much and as the rest of my family is a vital part of our ministry.

My next entry will give an update on the additional ministry opportunities that God has given our family to include the great response to the military tracts. Thanks for the prayers and don't quit yet!

Chaps