From Pulpit to Navy Blue - Day #7

A Pastor's Journey Toward Navy Reserve Chaplaincy at 48

Entry #7

June 15, 2026

Today was a day marked by progress, encouragement, and a growing sense that the disciplines I have begun to establish are producing results. While the road ahead remains uncertain, I can see tangible evidence that consistency is beginning to pay dividends.

The morning began with my normal routine of spending time with Jennifer and making her morning latte. Afterward, I spent time in God's Word before heading out for my run. The discipline of beginning the day with Scripture continues to anchor my heart and keep my priorities in the proper order. Before I am preparing to become a chaplain, I am first called to walk faithfully with Christ.

Today's run brought one of the most encouraging physical milestones of this journey so far. For the first time, I completed a full mile without stopping. What seemed nearly impossible only a week earlier is now becoming reality. While I still have a long way to go before reaching the fitness level I desire, this milestone reminded me that steady effort produces results over time.

After the run, I headed to the gym where Steve and I completed a leg workout. Leg day is never easy, but it remains one of the most important components of building strength and improving overall fitness. Every workout serves as another investment in the goal of becoming physically prepared for the challenges that may lie ahead.

Following the workout, I met Jennifer for lunch. It was good to spend time together and enjoy a meal before continuing with the day's activities. Family remains one of God's greatest gifts, and this season has reminded me repeatedly how important it is to invest in those relationships.

Later in the day, I stopped by the store and purchased a weightlifting belt to help support my back during future squat workouts. At forty-eight years old, wisdom must accompany enthusiasm. Building strength is important, but avoiding injury is equally important if I hope to continue making progress.

Nutritionally, the day included some victories and a few indulgences. Lunch consisted of an Outlaw Ribeye, a Caesar salad with ranch dressing, and Brussels sprouts. I also enjoyed a latte containing approximately a tablespoon each of honey and maple syrup. While not a perfect nutrition day, I remained mindful of protein intake and portion control.

One of the most significant developments came on the scale. This morning I weighed in at 270 pounds, reflecting a loss of approximately fifteen pounds from my starting weight just days earlier. While some of this likely reflects water weight and dietary changes, it remains an encouraging sign that positive changes are occurring.

Beyond physical preparation, I continued investing time in Navy education. While listening to an audiobook on the history of the United States Navy, I progressed to approximately Lecture 13. I also continued memorizing rank structures, focusing on enlisted and officer grades from E-1 through E-9 and O-1 through O-9. The military world is becoming increasingly familiar as I devote time each day to learning its language, customs, and structure.

As I reflected this evening, I found myself grateful for the progress God has allowed. Only a short time ago, running a continuous mile seemed unrealistic. Today it became reality. The lesson extends far beyond fitness. Many worthwhile goals appear impossible until they are broken down into daily acts of faithfulness.

The future remains uncertain. Age waivers, endorsements, medical evaluations, and countless other obstacles still stand ahead. Yet today reminded me that God often prepares His people one step at a time rather than revealing the entire journey at once.

Scripture for Reflection

Philippians 3:13–14 — "Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (NASB95)

Lessons Learned Today

• Consistent effort eventually produces visible results.

• Small milestones deserve celebration because they point toward larger victories.

• Physical preparation requires both discipline and wisdom.

• Family remains an essential source of strength and encouragement.

• God often leads His people one step at a time rather than all at once.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the encouragement You provided today. Thank You for the progress in my health, the strength to complete another workout, and the opportunity to continue learning and preparing. Help me remain faithful in the small daily disciplines that produce long-term growth. Keep my eyes fixed upon Christ and my trust firmly rooted in Your sovereign plan. May every step of this journey bring honor and glory to You. Amen.