[…]be searching for Christian fellowship. Some of you newly commissioned members are, or soon will be, beginning your marriage. Other members are, or soon will be, assuming increasing levels of responsibility in new assignments. For single members, new challenges and assignments may seem even more difficult. Without a built-in family support system that travels with you, you not only have the challenges of military life, but you may have to find a whole new set of Christian friends and new sources of fellowship. Since you are “commissioned” to enter into this battle, you can expect the unexpected. Every battle has […]
[…]time “casting my cares on Him for He cares for me.” (1Peter 5:8) I reflected on 1 Peter 5:9 “Be sober, be vigilant, for your adversary the devil stalks about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” The dilemma of civilian casualties had been met with some failure, some success. My failure; God’s success. Different Insignia; the Same Savior Often in the course of our spiritual and emotional growth and maturity, the resolution of one problem brings with it the harbinger of another. So it was in this instance. A week or so later a sapper force attacked […]
[…] recognizing plebes on graduation day. It symbolizes the break from the tough plebe year to the ranks of the upperclass. It involves shaking the plebe’s hand and calling him by his first name.” Jon then thrust his calloused gymnast’s hand toward mine and said, “Hi Barry, I’m Jon.” Hesitating but happy and relieved, I raised his right hand and firmly grasped Jon’s and our eyes met and a bond was formed that day that only the few who have experienced it can comprehend. But that wasn’t the end of the Special Inspection. Jon then opened and held out his […]
[…]informed by the experiences of the millions who have gone before, they can focus on who they must be, and from that character what they must be able to do, to be successful in combat, to meet the officers’ obligations as warriors, as servants, as professionals and as leaders of character. Let me explain. In a few minutes, by swearing to the oath of office, you will assume the awesome responsibilities of your formal commission. The oath itself is simple and deliberately unconditional, a whole of five parts. In sequence you will swear: To support and defend the Constitution of […]
