From Pulpit to Navy Blue - Day #8

A Pastor's Journey Toward Navy Reserve Chaplaincy at 48

Entry #8

June 16, 2026

Today was a day I will remember for a long time, not because of anything related to Navy preparation or physical training, but because of God's unmistakable kindness toward our family.

The day began early, around 5:00 AM, as Jennifer and I prepared to leave for her scheduled surgery. Any surgery brings uncertainty, and while we trusted the Lord's care, there was still concern about the procedure, recovery, and the significant financial burden associated with it.

Before we even arrived, however, God had already been at work.

In a remarkable display of His provision, we learned that a generous individual had called and paid the entire self-pay portion of Jennifer's medical bill, approximately $12,000 it would have cost us!!!!! We had prayed, trusted, and hoped, but seeing the Lord provide in such an unexpected way left us humbled and grateful. Moments like these remind us that God often provides through means we never could have anticipated.

The surgery itself went smoothly, and Jennifer was home by approximately 8:30 AM. Seeing her safely through the procedure and resting comfortably at home brought tremendous relief and gratitude.

Around 11:00 AM, I had a meal consisting of eggs before heading out for my run. The workout was noticeably more difficult than normal, likely because of yesterday's leg workout. My legs felt heavy, and every step required extra effort. Nevertheless, I was able to get in a few miles and continue building the consistency that has become such an important part of this journey.

One lesson I am learning is that discipline often matters most on the days when motivation is absent. Some runs feel strong and effortless; others feel difficult from the very beginning. Yet progress is made by showing up regardless of how I feel.

Later in the evening, around 5:30 PM, I headed to the gym and completed a chest workout. Though fatigue from the day was present, I was thankful for the opportunity to continue training and investing in my health. Every workout represents another step toward becoming physically prepared for whatever opportunities the Lord may place before me.

Dinner consisted of teriyaki chicken and rice from Panda Express. While not a perfect meal, it provided a good source of protein after the day's activities.

Throughout the day I found myself reflecting on God's faithfulness. The physical training, military preparation, and chaplaincy process all remain important, but today reminded me that family comes first. No accomplishment, opportunity, or future goal matters more than faithfully caring for those whom God has entrusted to me.

As I closed the day, Jennifer was resting at home recovering well, and my heart was filled with gratitude. The Lord had provided financially, protected her through surgery, strengthened me through another day of training, and reminded me once again that He is sovereign over every detail of life.

The future remains uncertain, but God's faithfulness does not.

Scripture for Reflection

Psalm 37:25 — "I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread." (NASB95)

Lessons Learned Today

• God's provision often arrives in ways we never expect.

• Faith is strengthened when we witness God's hand at work in real life.

• Discipline matters most on difficult days.

• Family responsibilities must always remain a priority.

• Gratitude is the proper response to God's blessings and care.

Prayer

Father, thank You for Your extraordinary kindness today. Thank You for providing for our financial needs in such an unexpected way and for bringing Jennifer safely through surgery. Thank You for the strength to continue training even when I felt tired and sore. Help me never take Your blessings for granted. Continue to guide our family, strengthen my faith, and prepare me for whatever service You have planned. Above all, may my life bring glory to Christ in every circumstance. Amen.