From Pulpit to Navy Blue - Day 1

From Pulpit to Navy Blue

A Pastor's Journey Toward Navy Reserve Chaplaincy at 48

Entry #1

June 9, 2026

Today marks the beginning of a journey I never expected to take at this stage of life.

At 48 years old, after nearly fifteen years of pastoral ministry, I find myself exploring the possibility of serving as a Navy Reserve Chaplain. Whether this door ultimately opens or closes remains entirely in the hands of the Lord, but I want to document the process, the lessons, the challenges, and the providence of God along the way.

Physically, I am starting from a place that requires work. This morning I weighed in at approximately 285 pounds, far heavier than I should be. If I am serious about pursuing chaplaincy, I must become serious about my health. My goal is to lose approximately fifty pounds over the next six months while improving my endurance, strength, and overall fitness.

This morning I completed my first workout utilizing the Couch to 5K program. The workout lasted approximately thirty minutes and covered 1.82 miles, totaling 3,743 steps. It was not easy. My body quickly reminded me that years of ministry behind a desk do not prepare a man for military fitness standards. Nevertheless, every journey begins with a single step, and today I took that step.

Later in the day I went to the gym and completed a chest workout as part of a new four-day training rotation. My plan is to combine strength training with consistent running and walking throughout the week. The objective is not merely weight loss but developing the discipline necessary for whatever opportunities the Lord may provide.

Nutritionally, I made intentional choices today. For lunch I enjoyed an eight-ounce sirloin with a strawberry salad. Dinner consisted of grilled chicken, grilled shrimp, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus. Throughout the day I focused on drinking water and increasing my protein intake as I work toward healthier habits.

Spiritually, this journey is much bigger than fitness goals or military aspirations. At its core, it is about stewardship. God has entrusted me with a body, a ministry, a family, and opportunities to serve. Whether He ultimately leads me into Navy chaplaincy or not, I want to be found faithful in preparing myself for whatever He places before me.

I have no guarantees concerning age waivers, medical evaluations, endorsements, recruiters, or future opportunities. What I do know is that God opens doors no man can shut and shuts doors no man can open. My responsibility is not to determine the outcome but to walk faithfully through the process.

As I close this first entry, I am reminded that great journeys rarely begin with certainty. They begin with obedience.

Scripture for Reflection

Proverbs 3:5–6 — "Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." (NASB95)

Lessons Learned Today

• Every significant journey begins with a first step.

• Physical readiness requires daily discipline.

• Stewardship includes caring for the body God has given.

• The outcome belongs to the Lord; obedience belongs to me.

• Faithfulness today prepares us for opportunities tomorrow.

Prayer

Father, thank You for allowing me to begin this journey. Give me wisdom to know Your will, discipline to prepare faithfully, and humility to trust Your timing. Open the doors You desire opened and close the doors You desire closed. Above all, may Christ be glorified in every step of this process. Amen.