Home

Well it's been a week now, but I'm home. I'm also sick thanks to some bug Katie picked up at work. We got in on Monday after the mid-west got clobbered with a Winter Storm, but we made it. I am back to being Mr. Mom and preparing to finish up my classes at Liberty in the not so distant future.

Looking back I am very thankful for the opportunity to go to CH-BOLC. I met some great men and women of God who will serve God and Country really well! I found out that while I loved growing up in the Army, I love serving in it even more! There is no other place I would rather serve as pastor, than the US Army. It is an exciting place for ministry. Unfortunately, I have some more schooling to go before we assess into active duty. I am figuring out my schedule right now to try and get my five classes done as soon as possible so I can get out there with the soldiers and minister to them. Until that time, Katie, Nat, Benjamin and I will continue serving here in good 'ole Fort Wayne, IN.

I apologize to those who were praying for me that I was not better at my blogging. I can't tell you how frustrating it was to have all the internet problems I had. But, we're back on track now. Please continue praying for us. And pray for other Chaplains and their ministries in the Army.

This is the final picture of the men and women of First Platoon. Now that I'm home I will be posting some pictures of the process. I want you to know that these are some fine people here and I can't wait to serve full time with them.

Rob

Thanksgiving and Capstone

I flew home last week for Thanksgiving. It was really great to see the family after a little more than two months away. I took my son to his first hockey game. For some reason, ever since he has seen the movie "Miracle," he has loved hockey. He had a great time! We stayed for about half the game. I was a little surprised to see six fights in the first period. It was pretty crazy, but we had fun.

After getting back from the weekend, we went to the field for "Capstone." It was great! It is basically designed to allow us an opportunity to practice what we have learned so far. As I said, it was a great time!

I can't tell you how great it is to be here. We have a small class in comparison to other classes. We have only 44 in our class. The summer had over 150! The size has created an opportunity to make some great relationships. I must say, our class has some really great Chaplains in it! I look forward to serving with these individuals in the not so distant future. Only two weeks left until I get to go home. I can't wait to get back to my amazing wife and two sons.

Blessings,

Rob

Watching my Packers

Wow, what an occasion. I get to see two Packer games in one week. Living in South Carolina this fall, I am watching them tear up the Panthers right now. (14-3 right now in the second quarter.) Then I also will be in my own recliner this Thursday for turkey day to watch them tear up the Lions! That's right, I get to go home this week for Thanksgiving. I am really excited! I fly out of here at 6:00 am and will land at 11:20. Yeah, the game starts at 11:30, but I'll be home by the second half.

I am really pumped to see everyone. Things here are going well. Lots of homework due this week and we're starting to prepare to go into the field next week when we get back. I am actually looking forward to it. I picked up an field jacket the other day here on post, so hopefully I'll be nice and warm. I must say, South Carolina Autumn is wonderful! It is like 60 degrees out right now with the leaves just hitting their peak...(packers just scored again...woo hoo). It is absolutely beautiful! I would live here in a second.

Well, blessings to you all as you enjoy the time of Thanksgiving with your families. Continue to pray for our soldiers overseas. This is a tough time to be away from family. Thanks for all your prayers for our family.

Blessings,

Rob

A long time coming

Boy, it's been awhile. I am sorry for those of you who are trying to follow the progress of Chaplain's Basic so you can pray for Katie and I. Thanks for your patience. Hopefully, this will be an encouraging update.

First of all, let me say thank you. I was talking to a friend today who I know has been praying for us. I can't tell you how comforting it has been to know that I have people praying for me and my family! Please continue to pray.

Things are going very well here at CH-BOLC. This past week we started the phase focusing on Army Chaplaincy. Up to this point we have been learning to be soldiers by crawling around in the sand and mud. We have been taught what it means to be a good staff officer, learning how to write Army memorandums and present briefings. Now we are learning the skills of the Chaplain. And while there is a lot of class time, it is good stuff.

It has also been hard to post because of the emotional highs and lows of being here. Wrestling with many issues including loneliness, has been difficult. But God has been so faithful! While I miss my family dearly, I have made some wonderful friends. Some of whom have already gone home, but many who will finish out the training. I have been frustrated at this stupid internet connection. Katie and I had it all worked out to be able to "skype" with each other, only to be frustrated by constant internet problems. So, while I haven't "seen" my wife and son, I have talked to them regularly.

I have also been wrestling with the role I will have in the Army. And while I am still walking with Jesus, looking for his guidance, Katie and I are still heading toward applying for the active duty side of the Army. I still feel that this will be a place where we can have our "maximum impact" for the Kingdom of God.

Thanks for your prayers. I will try to post again soon. I am looking forward to heading home for Thanksgiving. What a blessing to go home for a few days before the final push to the end. Thanks again.

Blessings,

Rob

What a Week

Wow, what a busy week! This past week we went to the field for our field exercise training. It was exhausting and challenging. All in all, I believe we did a good job as a class not getting on each other's nerves too much. We constantly challenged each other to be careful about bad attitudes and really, for the most part, we did a great job. Obviously by the third night, when we were dirty and wet, it was a little more challenging, but again, I believe that we did well in how we represented ourselves. I did have an excellent experience in the field when one of the leaders of the Chaplain School did a field service with us. It is hard to explain but the Lord really comforted me and challenged me during the service. I must say, the life I have lived most recently has not been that challenging. I live comfortably with very little sacrifice. The encouragement from the Lord was that in the midst of ministry there will be great sacrifice, but that he will be right there as my wife and I pursue Him! It was really a great time with Jesus.

I am sorry that I have not blogged more often. There are a couple reasons why. First of all, I am often tired and not really in the mood at the end of the evening and secondly, I am still not quite sure what I can share on the internet. I will try to continue to find out what I can share in order to give you more of an idea as to what the training looks like.

I do appreciate your prayers. All in all, I am doing pretty well. I certainly miss my wife and boys, but I think the most challenging times I miss them are on the weekends. I don't know if I shared this last week, but I did buy a plane ticket to go home for Thanksgiving. I am excited about that! Please continue to pray for us and for our troops. It is hard to be away from family and some of our troops have been deployed multiple times. Pray for our chaplains downrange too. Pray that God gives them wisdom as they preach and counsel the troops that they serve. Pray for the leaders of our military and pray for our government. We need the wisdom of God as we continue to fight this war.

Thanks for all your support and prayers. We really appreciate it!

Blessings to you,

Rob

Still Here

While my internet is still no allowing me to post pictures, I am still here. This past week was full of very exciting activities. Last Saturday we repelled off of a really large tower. It was a lot of fun! We also participated in a confidence course where we were challenged to take part in different activities that challenged our potential fears of heights. These required a lot of team work and a lot of patience. They were challenging, but very fun. Probably the most memorable experience was the gas mask experience. Let's just say it was not a very enjoyable experience. While it was great to know that our masks work properly, taking them off in a room of tear gas and trying to say your name was not a good time. I was unofficially "awarded" the largest spit/snot glob coming from my nose and mouth as I left the gas room. Not quite an award that I take pride in, but hey, I sure am glad it's over.

I also just purchased a plane ticket to head home for Thanksgiving. While it's a long time away, it was important to take care of now. It will be great to see them and to spend the holiday with them.

All in all, things are going well. I really appreciate all your prayers. God has been really faithful in encouraging me and providing for my family.

Rob

A Week or A Month?

Wow, what a long first few days. I really have not had time to blog because of needing to get some sleep each night. I have also had some internet problems which have made blogging very challenging.

Today was our first day in uniform. As I write the 8:00 bugle is sounding. Only one hour till taps. I must admit, I do enjoy the bugle. While I can't say I remember hearing reveille when I was growing up, I do remember "retreat" and "to the colors." Retreat is the bugle call at five o'clock followed by a shot from a cannon and then "to the colors" is played while the flag is lowered. At the first note of "to the colors" if outside, you are to salute the flag but if inside, you are only to stand at attention. So while in a briefing today, after the cannon sounded, the NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) shouted "Attention" and we all snapped to attention right there at our tables. It was cool.

Yesterday during in-processing while I was getting blood drawn and many vaccinations, I talked to a Sergeant First Class that is about to deploy for his fourth deployment. He was also explaining to this very "green" soldier, (me) how the Army is set up so much differently today than it was in the past. We only talked for about five minutes, but I so appreciated the time to talk with him. When I was getting up to head over to the in-processing desk, he shook my hand and said how he appreciated what I do. Wow, he appreciates me? Man, I'm just a newbie who officially put his uniform on for the first time today, and he appreciates what I do? Needless to say, I appreciate what he does and has done for a career of fifteen years in the Army.

While it's only been about a week since I left home, I certainly miss my wonderful wife and little boys. We talk regularly, but it is difficult. I will try to continue to post somewhat regularly. Hopefully I'll get this Internet thing worked out soon. Then I can post some of the pictures I've taken.

Friday we have the first PFT test and Saturday we get to repel from Victory Tower. What an exciting time it is.

Thanks for reading,

Rob

I'm Here!

I have arrived at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. I dropped my mom off yesterday in Maryville, TN and left this morning to make my way to Fort Jackson. I got here at about 4:00 or so and immediately met another "recruit." We headed over to the "BOQ" (hotel) and got settled. We then took a jog together and went over to have some dinner at the Post Exchange (basically a Wal-Mart on the Post). It has been a fun filled day.

Although I hit some traffic in the Pigeon Forge area, I did find a great little barbecue place. It was pretty good for fast food. I then drove on I-40 through the mountains of eastern TN and western NC. Wow were they beautiful! I tried to get some pictures, but it was kind of difficult.

The fun begins tomorrow. I am heading over with Joe, the other Chaplain Candidate I met, to the Protestant Chapel service tomorrow. It should be fun. Then on to the Commissary to fill the fridge.

I'm trying to upload pictures, but something is not working. I may have to shrink the size of my pictures. We'll see. Stay tuned for more.

Rob

Amidst the Chaos

Wow, what a day. I am packing and trying to get everything worked out that needs to be. It is hard to pack for three months of "unknown." I know I will be purchasing uniforms which will be the main set of clothing I will use once the program begins, but I am also bringing clothes for the weekend and for other things too. Not only that, but I have a change of seasons to consider. While fall in South Carolina is not harsh, it will still be cooler than it is right now. So that makes things a bit more challenging.

All in all, things are going well. We got Katie's ID today down at the local Army Reserve building so she is set to be able to access the things like the post commissary if she so desires. Although, we don't really live near a post, but at least she has her ID.

The journey begins tomorrow. After a nice Bob Evans breakfast with the whole family I am driving my mom back to Tennessee and will then head to Fort Jackson on Saturday. I am scheduled to check in on Saturday afternoon. That leaves Sunday to do some grocery shopping and have some final chill time before the excitement begins at 14:45 Sunday afternoon.

We certainly appreciate your prayers. It will be challenging in ways we don't even know yet, but we know that God is always with us and always there to comfort us.

Thanks for reading,

Rob Olson

One Week Away...

Well, I am one week from reporting to Fort Jackson. I'm certainly not too sure what the first few days will look like, but I am really pumped.

Yesterday was our last Sunday at our church. While I am not heading to active duty after Chaplain's Basic, (I have five more classes to take this winter and spring) Katie and I felt that it would be better to leave my position before I headed for training. We have been at our church for five years and during those five years God has taught us so much about himself and about serving Him. We have so many relationships through our church family who love us and whom I know will be praying for us as we begin this journey into the Army.

The kids are both doing well and while I was hoping to get a paper for ordination completed this week, it seems that the craziness of getting ready to go will put the paper on hold. We'll see.

Rob

Great First Week!

To say this first week has been great would be an understatement. Benjamin is sleeping really well and Nathaniel is doing great as a big brother. My folks have been helping us out for awhile but will be gone for a couple days. My mom will return Tuesday and my mother and father in-law will come in on Wednesday. Then next Friday, I head to South Carolina, via Tennessee to drop my mom off at home and the rest of the family heads to Wisconsin with Katie's parents for about 2-3 weeks.

It is absolutely amazing how teeny tiny this little guy is. Looking at Nathaniel, I find it hard to imagine that he was ever this small, but I know he was. Benjamin is also a great sleeper. He barely fusses and is sleeping and eating like a champ!

As far as preparing for Ch-OBLC, I am doing my best. I have been in contact with one gentleman who has just graduated, to get some ideas about what to bring that may not be on the official list. He gave some great ideas. I've also been in touch with a couple other Chaplain Candidates who have finished the first phase. I think I am prepared, but if you happen to be reading this and have already completed any of the phases of CH-OBLC, I would certainly be open to suggestions.

All in all, things are going well. Thanks so much for reading.

Rob

He's Here!

Benjamin arrived early yesterday morning. Katie started feeling contractions while preparing dinner on Monday evening and so we headed to the hospital where they admitted her. She gave birth to Benjamin at 1:22 a.m. Tuesday morning. Both Katie and Ben are doing very well. We head home tomorrow afternoon where we will join Nathaniel and my folks. Nat has visited a few times and, while he doesn't quite know what is going on, he is taking everything in and considering the situation, doing very well.

My dad and I are planning a couple of "big brother" events this next week to make sure Nat has some good "guy" time. We'll probably hit a high school football game on Friday and sometime next week, enjoy the excitement of Chuck 'E' Cheese.

Anyway, things are excellent at the Olson household. What a blessing it is to be a dad. As I've said before, it is the greatest job in the world.

Enjoy just a couple of pictures. More to follow in the days ahead.

Rob

Are these guys brothers or what? The picture on the top is of Benjamin and the other is of Nathaniel not long after he was born. Pretty amazing huh?

Today, Tomorrow, ....?

Well, the baby will be here soon! The Doc said he will induce Katie tomorrow if she has not started going into labor. My folks are on the way up as I write and should be here this evening. Katie is really excited that this will be her last day of work for six weeks. I am excited that I will have almost three weeks with my new son before I head to CH-OBLC.

Nat is doing really well and we continue to discuss that dad will be going to "soldier school" soon. We talk about how we will talk on the computer like he does with his grandparents. It will be tough for both of us, but I believe he will do well. Especially since he will have his "Grandpie" and "Papa" around for quite a bit of the time I am gone. And when they are not here, one of the grandmother's will be.

I have been following the current class at Ch-OBLC through a few blog's and the most recent post of one blog I've been reading reports that they are completing their "capstone" experience, which is the final piece of their training before graduation. As I read Chaplain Ham's blog, I get really excited about the journey ahead. While there are numerous challenges ahead in the next three months, one of the challenges for me will be the fact that following Ch-OBLC, I have five classes to complete while many of these Chaplains will start their military ministry right away. But, God is good and his timing is perfect. Certainly, this will be a great motivator to finish strong!

Chaplain Ham also referred to an article on the new Chief of Chaplains. I am very excited about the potential of meeting Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Carpenter this fall.

I will keep you posted on the arrival of the baby. He is coming soon, and we are really excited!

Blessings,

Rob

September is Approaching

Well, I got my paperwork for Ch-OBLC today. While some of you may be saying, "Well, didn't you know you were getting it?" Sure, I knew I was getting it, but nothing is official in the Army until you have paperwork in hand. So, it's official. I will be heading out for three months this fall. From Sept. 16 to Dec. 15. To say I am excited is an understatement. To prepare, I have been running two miles a day for three days every week for quite awhile now, so I am certainly getting into better shape. I will probably start running five days a week next week, so I can be more prepared for what's ahead.

My wonderful wife's pregnancy is going well too. The baby should come any time now. The Doc will probably induce in some way in a week and a half if the baby has not come "naturally" by then. We are also starting to phase out of our ministry responsibilities at church. Someone is taking over the children's church this Sunday and there is a tentative plan for a new group to start leading worship. All in all, things are progressing.

On another note, Katie and I will be signing up for a winter retreat at White Sulphur Springs. WSS is a conference center affiliated with Officers Christian Fellowship. My folks have been a part of OCF for many years, and since much of our time was spent on the east coast, we have been to this place many times while I was growing up, so I am excited to take my family there for a retreat. It is intended for military families, so I am hoping that it will be a great way for Katie and I to start meeting military families who love and serve Jesus. All in all, we are really excited.

Exciting times are ahead. Be sure to stick around for the updates as Ch-OBLC comes closer. And feel free to pray for us. We know that there will be some new challenges for us this fall while I'm away, but we are so excited about what God is doing.

Thanks for reading,


Rob

Orders

While not my orders for Ch-OBLC, I got my orders today for entrance into the Reserves. Things are just flying now! Actually, it's pretty amazing how fast these came. I believe the receiving of these orders make the issuing of orders for Ch-OBLC (Chaplains basic) right around the corner. I'll keep ya posted.

Rob

2 Lt. Olson

I am now a commissioned officer in the United States Army Reserve. It was a fun evening. Basically the order of events went like this:

-I welcomed people and thanked them for being there.
-Our pastor opened with prayer.
-We watched a video testimony of Chaplain (Major) Dave Bowlus that was published by the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
-Message from my Father, Colonel Walter Olson (Ret.) and issue of the Oath
-Pinning of my 2nd Lt. Bars - My wife and mom ceremonially pinned on brass 2nd Lt bars on
my collar. No, they are not official, but for the purpose of the ceremony, it was right. My son
"stuck" my velcro 2nd Lt. rank on the front of my uniform. It was really fun.
-First Salute by one of my best friends, SSG Brian Swomley. After this, I passed on to him a silver dollar, as is tradition, and a C&MA Chaplains Challenge Coin.
-Short Message by me - I focussed on relying upon the plans of God as we take steps to follow Him.
-Another Video testimony, by Chaplain (Major) Kevin Pies
-Close in prayer


It was a great time. It was really exciting to have my dad speak and issue me the oath. He started his "speech" with a funny introduction. Basically he told the people how my Grandfather and Uncle spent four years preparing to be an officer at West Point. He told them how he thought he did well by completing Officers Candidate School in nine weeks as an Army Reservist. But me. All I have to do is write a letter and make some phone calls and I'm in! It was fun.

It was also great to have one of my best friends there to salute me. It is an Army tradition to pass on a dollar, in this case a silver dollar, to the person who offers a newly commissioned officer his first salute. It was also a lot of fun. All in all it was a great ceremony.

At this point all the paper work I needed to get in, to go to Chaplains Officers Basic this fall is in and the Chaplain Candidate Manager says I am ready to go. I must say, I feel ready to go. It is an exciting time!


Rob

Are You Ready for some Football?!

Ahh, football season. As the heat of the summer gives way to the brisk cool mornings of fall and the leaves start to change, you can count on Sunday afternoon fun! I love football season! And yes, I love the Green Bay Packers! My wife and I have had the opportunity to go to at least one game for the past four seasons...? And my first game was a Monday night game against the Vikings in 2000. Yes, it was the game that Antonio Freeman caught the ball that looked as if it was dropped, but oh no, he caught it and the Pack went on to win the game. (This clip is still shown on shows that highlight great plays in football.)

Well, with CHOBLC and the birth of our new little boy this year, I will be unable to get to Lambeau Field this fall. But I will still cheer on my Pack. (I'll have to get some video of my son yelling, "Go Pack Go!" Oh yes, he is only two, but dad knows the important things to teach him.)

So, as the pre-season begins and everyone dreams of Superbowl victories, if you don't watch the Pack, that's ok. Just know that each week Favre will probably break some record. So sit back and enjoy the season.

Rob

God

Yeah, a lot could be wrapped up in a title like, "God." I have been taking a systematic theology course for the past 5-6 weeks. It has been intense, but it has been good. The more I learn about my God, the more I am in awe that he would fellowship with me, a sinner. You see, one thing I wrestle with is the plan of God. Actually, I am writing my final paper on the plan of God, and while I am learning a lot, I still wrestle with the "unknowns." It is those "unknowns" that I believe the enemy uses to stifle me. The "unknowns" of whether or not I am making the proper choices or whether or not I may disappoint someone who trusts me. And in my struggling, I sometimes get so focussed on me I lose sight of the fact that while my God is the almighty and powerful God, he is also a God who cares about me. He knows my fears and my struggles and he walks with me through them. Then I slowly start resting in God and the fact that His plan will go forth.

As we wrestle with better understanding God's plans, I found out today that in all likelihood I will be attending the September CHOBLC class. (Sorry Dave, I was looking forward to meeting you. We'll get together sometime.) I was hoping to do a practicum first, but the Chaplain Candidate Manager wants me to attend CHOBLC before I do a practicum. Then I asked if I could still get into the September class. He said, "Sure." Wow! I can't quite express how excited and overwhelmed I am about this opportunity. It seems almost too unreal to be real. Add this to the fact that my wonderful wife will give birth to our second son about two weeks before I go and things get pretty intense. As we have talked though, we just feel that this is a good time for me to do my training. Liberty will give me nine hours of credit and both my parents and my wife's parents have helped us devise a plan that will keep one of them with her for most of the time I am gone. Actually it is a little better than going in the winter because she will have some maternity time left to actually go and live with her folks for awhile. That, on top of not worrying about the possibility of her getting stuck in the snow one day while I am a few hundred miles away makes this a really great time to go.

Yes, I serve a good and all powerful God. He created all things from nothing and he called me to be adopted as his son. He provided me with the most wonderful woman in the world for a wife and I have the greatest son, soon to be sons, in the world too. What an awesome blessing it is to know God!


Rob

A date and a time

Saturday, August 4, 2007 at 7:00. This is the date and time that I will be commissioned into the Army. My parents are coming up so my dad can issue me the oath of office, where I commit to upholding the constitution among other things. A really good friend of mine from High School, who is a Sergeant in the Pennsylvania National Guard will be here to give me my first salute. He is also picking me up a set of ACU's (Army Combat Uniform), so I can be commissioned "in style." It is a really exciting time. Initially, we were looking at the end of August, but since my paperwork came so quickly, we are going to do it more quickly. This will get me in the "books" so I can get my orders, get my ID and talk with the Chaplain Candidate Manager about training opportunities this next year.

It is an exciting time and will be an exciting year.

By the way, a week or so ago, I asked readers to post about their success, or lack there of, with their cell phone companies. Well, although I think I only had one response, and this was through another site, we decided to go with AT&T. So, now my wife and I both have a phone. No we did not get an i-phone. While it is a little more a month than we were paying for one phone, it is a necessity since I will be away sometime this year for training. If, by any chance, anyone reading this is interested in switching to AT&T, let me know so I can get some $$$ for a referral.

Thanks for reading,

Rob

Paper Work is Here

Wow, believe it or not, my oath of office came today. After growing up as an "Army Brat" it is kind of strange to see 2 Lt. Robert Olson on an official government piece of paper. Ok, it's really strange, but it's also really exciting! I am waiting to be commissioned by my father. He and my mom will come up in mid-august to officially commission me into the United States Army. While we could do the ceremony in a matter of seconds, we will probably make it a nice service at the church.

It will be really exciting! Don't worry, I will make sure to post pictures of the great event.


Rob

Chopper Pilots

The story I am linking to is about two helicopters that were shot up a few days ago. One was able to make it back to the air base, while the other crash landed near a group of insurgents. I've written a little bit before about my brother-in-law. He is a doctor deployed to Iraq with this squadron. It is a pretty amazing story.

Here is the link for the written story.

Here is the link for a short video about the story.


Rob

Mobile Phone

Ok, so my wife and I are looking at changing mobile phone companies. I don't know how many people read this blog, but if you are interested, we would love to hear what company you have and what your experience has been with your cell company. Comments on dropped calls, coverage, and customer service would be great.

Thanks,

Rob

Family Fun

We have been having a great time with the family in Tennessee. A couple days ago, we went to a Tennessee Smokies game. The Smokies are the AA affiliate to the Chicago Cubs. It was a really great time. The ball park was really nicely laid out and the prices were typical minor league prices. When it comes down to it, minor league baseball is great!

Yesterday, my dad and I went fly fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I don't claim to be a fisherman, but it was a great time. We didn't catch anything, but the two inch little fish were biting enough to rip apart our tiny flies.


Tonight we went to the Black Bear Jamboree. This is one of many dinner theaters in the tourist trap that is Pigeon Forge. My folks went a couple years ago and it was designed for kids. This time the show was really more of a variety show that, while decent singing and dancing, was really not designed for children. It was good clean fun, but I would not recommend it to people looking for a kid friendly show.

It has been a fun time, but the week is just about over.



Rob

Family

We're in Tennessee this week visiting family. Although we've seen my family pretty regularly, we have not visited here in about a year and a half. It is good to be here just chilling out.

As a nice surprise, we just got a call from my brother-in-law. He is an Army doctor deployed to Iraq and while either heading to or from work noticed the line for the free phone calls was pretty short, so he stopped to give us a call. I guess, there are free phone calls offered a couple days a month and while there is usually a long line, today he just stepped right in line and made the call. It was pretty amazing to hear how clear the line was. There was no delay and no crackling. At one point I thought I lost the call, but he was back within a couple of seconds. Thanks to whomever pays for those calls! It was nice to chat with him and hear how he is doing.

It is good to have such a great relationship with all my family! We are truly blessed.


Rob

"Why We Fight"

If you've ever seen "Band of Brothers" produced by HBO, there is a DVD entitled "Why We Fight." Not to ruin it for you, but in this dvd E Company comes upon a Jewish prison/death camp. During the video, they release the Jews and have the local people bury the dead. The implication of the title suggests that one of the reasons we were over there was to rid the world of the horrific tyranny of Adolf Hitler, eventually freeing the Jews and others that were being killed by the Nazi's.

I think how it is always important to remember why we do what we do. It's easy to lose perspective in the chaos of life. I was listening to "i-tunes" radio tonight. I found a radio station out of southern California, KWVE. The songs were simple worship songs from different eras, but they reminded me of the awesomeness of serving Jesus. I must admit, today was an overwhelming day, but here I am, at 11:44 pm, trying to get some more work done, listening to the great worship on a radio station a couple thousand miles away. I don't know about you, but sometimes I get stressed about trying to accomplish all that's on my plate and tonight Jesus just decided to show up and remind me that it's not about the specific ministry I do or about the grade I get or don't get, it's all about Him. Life is about worshiping and serving Jesus! What an amazing opportunity I have to worship God! I am blessed.


Rob

Distance Learning

With the vast number of distance learning opportunities today, many people take advantage of getting more education through distance learning. This is great in that it allows someone who cannot take the time off of work or does not have the freedom to move to a new location to take classes and gain an education. But it is not so good because you don't have the classroom synergy that takes place in the educational setting, especially in adult education (i.e. graduate school). I was watching a DVD lecture the other day and at the end the professor asked those present if they had any questions. I was certainly not there, but when no one asked anything, I started yelling at the TV trying to tell the good professor that I had a question. Imagine my surprise when he did not recognize my hand and call on me. I miss the interaction I had at Huntington with fellow students as we struggled through understanding new concepts or new ministry ideas. I miss being able to ask the professor a question. I mean, he is the professional and I sometimes just don't get the idea being presented. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful for the opportunity Liberty provides me. We couldn't move right now, and with me being a stay-at-home dad, this is the best possible solution, but I sure do miss the classroom interaction.


Rob

I Made It!

Well, we are officially in, but not yet. So, I was approved by the Chaplain Boards for the Chaplain Candidate program. I'm not "in" because I still have to take my oath of office officially making me a 2 Lt. in the Army. Even though I'm not "in" yet, I talked with the Chaplain Candidate manager and we are already discussing the fall practicum I would like to do. The Army year starts on the first of October so I wouldn't be able to go out to Fort Carson until the middle of October. That's not bad at all. I would have a month and a half home after Fort Carson and then I would head to Fort Jackson in January! We are really excited and very thankful for this opportunity. If you think about it, please pray for this summer and fall. I have so much to try and accomplish. But I am confident that it can get done!

The crest to the right of this post is the Army Chaplain Crest. Pro Deo et Patria means "For God and Country." What an exciting journey ahead. Thanks for all your prayers so far. We are excited to see God work in our lives this year.

Thanks!

Rob

WWII Museum

In the blog below, I mentioned the WWII Victory Museum. While their website needs some work, according to the Army Times, they are actually going to expand their facility over the next few years.

Rob

Best Job in the World

Many of you know that I have been a stay-at-home dad for the whole of my sons 2+ years of life. To say it has been enjoyable is an understatement. Certainly there have been and continue to be different types of challenges that come up, but that is part of fatherhood.

One thing I really enjoy doing with Nat is taking short trips to various sites and museums. We have visited the Billy Sunday Museum, the Fort Wayne Firefighter Museum, and the campus of Notre Dame, something I had long wanted to do. Today we visited the WWII Victory Museum in Auburn, IN. (They really need to update their website.) I love history, so museums with historical artifacts get me very excited. Nathaniel loved the "big trucks" and the motorcycles. Certainly he is way too young to understand the significance of the museum, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the time together. While I didn't get any pictures, another part of the museum was full of historic cars and cars from TV and movies. So we saw the A-Team van, the Duke's Car and K.I.T.T., to name a few. It was fun, but I must say I enjoyed the Victory Museum much more.

One thing I have learned in being a stay-at-home dad is the importance of taking short day trips like these together. Is it a little challenging to take a tiny baby into the Billy Sunday Museum or take a two year old into a museum with big trucks and signs that say "Do not touch"? Sure it is challenging. Will he remember the museum or experience? Highly unlikely. But in a day and age when people seem "too busy" to have fun with the family, I have pictures and memories of many experiences that I have had the chance to fulfill with my son. And while my wonderful wife has worked hard to provide for these experiences, it will soon be her turn to take the title, "stay-at-home parent." A role she can't wait to fulfill!

So I am blessed. I am the husband of a great woman who has given up her dreams of staying home with our son so I can go to school and fulfill my dreams. I am the father of an amazing little boy with another one on the way. Sometime next week, we'll get the news of the Chaplain Boards. If all works out, I will be away for about five of the next nine months for various training opportunities. That's a long time. If God opens the door to Active Duty Chaplaincy, the likelihood of me being deployed is pretty high. Deployments right now for active duty soldiers are fifteen months. That's a really long time and I will miss a lot of these types of experiences. But what a blessing it has been to be a stay-at-home dad for these past two years. I have pictures and memories that I can refer to when I am away from home this next year. And thanks to skype, I'll be able to see my family when I talk to them.

If you are a parent let me encourage you to do stuff like this. Spend the ten bucks to make a memory, even if your son or daughter won't remember. Take the time to get in the car and go to the zoo for the day or whatever. The time and little money you spend is really insignificant compared to the excitement you get when you get to look back and remember.

Thanks for reading,

Rob

Time is Coming Soon

Next week is the week. My packet goes to the Board of Chaplains. June 18-20, I believe. The only thing I am a little concerned about is my letter from my Graduate School. I have been assured that it won't be a problem, but we'll see. Other than that, this should just be a formality. We'll see what God does.

Rob

Becoming Missional

I'm reading a great book now and have to comment on it. The book is "Breaking the Missional Code." I would highly encourage anyone in the Church of Jesus Christ to read it. I get a little passionate below. Don't take my passion to think that I have this all worked out. I don't. But I recognize that I need to be open to change.

For quite some time now, I have had the opportunity to hang out with different people and groups that are very missional in their philosophy of how the Church must change to impact the world for Christ. And while it may sound like just another seeker or emerging or whatever idea, it is not. Being "missional" is a mindset which drives pastors and leaders to look beyond a specific program for answers. It is the recognition that we live in a post Christian era and therefore realize that we are all missionaries, just like the Saint's and Elliot's of days past. Yes, we have heard that we are missionaries in the church, but we really do not act like missionaries. We are so fearful of our culture that we totally separate ourselves from it instead of seeking to understand it so we can present the Gospel of Christ in a relevant manner. We "do" the same programs our grandparents did, not wanting to truly assess whether or not they are producing the results we want them to produce. One example is the Sunday School program. We want to teach our people the Word and so we have Sunday School. An excellent reason, but is this the best method to accomplish that goal? I would suggest that we probably keep this program because it has been a staple in our programs for years. Most of us don't know the history of the Sunday School movement or how God birthed it. It has a wonderful heritage! But it is only a method. And methods are rarely, if ever sacred. What we fail to recognize is that we may be able to achieve the same results of knowing the Scripture in a setting that would be far more conducive to reaching the lost. A home group or cell group could easily meet both needs and provide a place for true community to take place. As the Church of Jesus Christ we must find ways to be relevant to whatever our local culture is while remaining true to the message and teachings of the Scriptures!

One of the most exciting potentials about military ministry is the opportunity to do this very thing. I will have the opportunity to be a part of a culture that is different from any other in this country. And so, I will have the opportunity to ask my God how he wants to use me to reach this culture in a way that points people to Him while impacting them where they live. But my future ministry is not the only place this can take place. We can do this now! But we must understand our culture. What do our neighbors struggle with? Are they super busy? Are they working through a divorce? Are they religious in heritage? What type of religion? We must be prepared to ask the question, "How can we better understand their problems and issues so that we can point them to the joy and hope of Jesus?" Each of our answers may be a little different, because we all live in different places. But we can do this! We just need to recognize that we don't live in the 1950's anymore. We must be willing to change our method in order to present the truth of Scripture to all people of the 21st Century.


Rob

It Works!

Well, I finally figured out how to "track" where visitors come from when they visit my blog through Google Analytics, (thanks Tannerman!). Of course, I don't know who actually visits unless you post a comment, but I can tell where you are accessing the internet. So, thanks to the residents of New York, North Carolina, California, Illinois, and Utah! It will be fun when I get my first overseas "hit."

Rob

Enjoying the Great Weather

I love summer. (Even though it is not officially summer.) I am getting close to finishing my first distance learning class through Liberty. It has been really interesting. Great in some regards and very poor in others. But, this program will allow me to do a practicum this fall with the Army while taking a class and it will allow me to get nine credit hours for CHOBLC. Who can argue with that?

We had a great family experience this week. Our two year old son Nathaniel made the transition to a "big boy" bed. And he didn't have any problems at all! The bed was a refinished pine bunk bed with drawers underneath that I found in a neighbor's trash a few weeks ago. After my dad refinished it for us, it looks great. And the mattress was a four year old "used" mattress I found at a second hand store for a significant discount. It didn't look hardly used at all. It is so cool to see how God provides for us. We are so blessed! Anyway, we only set up the bottom bunk for now and Nat absolutely loves it! He has gone to bed quite easily for a long time now, but tonight he couldn't wait to get to bed. It's a ton of fun.

Lots going on. But boy it sure is fun!

Rob

A Little Sentimental

The year plus road ahead seems really long and difficult. But then I realize the blessings I have. My wonderful wife and son, our church home, our house, my wife's job just to name a few. I am so thankful for all God has given me. I look forward to being a Chaplain, but as I read some of the Chaplain blogs I am reminded of the challenges that are in the not too distant future. And while I want to be prepared for those challenges, I do not want to rush into them. In do time, Katie and I will be ministering to soldiers and their families. Until then, we are doing the best we can to prepare for the future ministry without wanting to rush through the preparation.

As far as updates, once my packet is approved, I am hoping to sign up for a practicum this fall. There are two options for Chaplain Candidates with non-prior service. Both are 30 days in length providing opportunities to shadow different Chaplains as they fulfill their duties. Although our next little guy will be born in early September, it seems that the best time to go will probably be this October. We are wrestling through this timing and what it means for our transition from our current ministry position to a time where God would have us focus on training for Army ministry. Please pray for wisdom for us. If there is one thing that I have started to realize, it is the importance of needing a prayer team as we get ready to jump into this ministry. Eventually, I will probably be looking for volunteers to be a part of our prayer team. Ask the Lord if this is something he may have you be a part of. I will keep you posted as we get closer to organizing that team. Thanks for reading.

Rob

Home

Yes! We are home. It's interesting, because this was really the first true vacation Katie and I have had since we have been married, coming up on nine years. All other vacations have either been weekend jaunts or have been at family's homes. I have come home from weekend trips where I felt like I could have used a little more time away, but this time I came home totally ready to be home. I was really excited to see my son, who was being watched by his grandparents and I was really excited just to be in our house. That being said, the time away was great! The week with friends from The Alliance was refreshing, challenging, and just all around wonderful! I met three new Chaplains who shared about some awesome ministry they had done throughout their careers. I would never have thought that our year of helping a team plant a church would be useful in the Army until a Colonel told me about the three "new" Chapel services he began during his career. And two of them continue to this day! To say we are excited about the coming ministry in the Army is an understatement! If there was one common theme that God was communicating to me it was, "finish well." This lives itself out in being focussed on ministry and not promotions in the army as well as being open to new ministries until the day we die. It was great to see so many men and women who spent thirty or forty years in ministry. One "older" couple, probably in their fifties, was going back to the field! That's what I want for Katie and I. To be open to new adventures until Jesus takes us home.

If God puts it on your heart, we are needing some prayer in regards to my training schedule. I am thinking that it would be wise to go a little more slowly in my classes so I can take advantage of many of the practicums offered by the army. I just have to find out a few things before we make any significant changes. Anyway, we are praying and believing that God will give us wisdom in this.


Rob

Lots Going On

Wow, it's been awhile! Let's just say our lives have been going at full speed for about a week or so now. Last weekend, I graduated from Grad. School. It was a really fun day. Then on Monday, we were scheduled to fly out of Fort Wayne to head to Florida for a vacation. We have been planning this for some time. We were going to rent a car and stay with some friends of the family for four days so we could save a little money, but when we showed up at the bank to get travelers checks on Monday morning, we found out that both of our driver's licenses were expired! Yikes. Well, we called and canceled our rental car and booked extra nights at the hotel. But how do we get from the airport to the hotel? Hmmm. Well, the main reason we headed to Florida was for a C&MA Conference. So I started calling all my contacts to see if anyone could give us a ride from the airport to the hotel. Yes, we could have taken a cab or van, but it would have cost us at least 50$ each way. As I'm calling contacts, a gentleman and his daughter overhear our plight and offer to take us from the airport to our hotel. She is a golfer for Purdue and although she didn't make the tournament, they were coming down to support the girls that made it to the national championship tournament. As of Friday, these were the results. So, we got to our hotel, praise God, and we are enjoying the time with other pastors and leaders of our denomination. By the way, if you have some time either this evening or Saturday evening at 7:00 pm, click HERE to view a live streaming video of the evening service. (You may have to use IE if you are having problems with Firefox not having the appropriate plug-ins.)

Anyway, that is a quick update. I don't know if I'll have access to the net until we get home, because it is like ten bucks a day, but I will update the rest of our week later.


Rob

Time with God

While I graduate this Saturday with my MA in pastoral ministries, I have started taking classes through Liberty University's distance learning program. Part of one of my assignments is to pray for one hour every day for thirty days. I have been waking up at 6:15 to make my coffee and start prayer walking by 6:30. It has been a lot more enjoyable than I originally expected. Don't get me wrong, I am not apposed to spending time with my God, I am just not the most disciplined person. I've spent time praying for my brother-in-law who recently got deployed to Iraq. I have been praying for a good friend who is an Army Chaplain and recently got deployed to Afghanistan. Among other things, I have also been praying for our church. I also try to spend at least ten minutes or so just listening, because I do not believe prayer is a one way street. This morning I was thinking and wrestling with the idea of whether or not it is possible to organize a missional church. Missional, meaning a church that releases people to do ministry without having to manage every person or every ministry. There are certainly missional churches, but I don't quite get how do to release people to do ministry in a missional way while providing some type of organization? It's very important to me because I appreciate organization but I also believe strongly in the priesthood of all believers and want to figure out how to release people to do ministry under an umbrella of an overall vision for ministry. Again, just something I am working through.

On the Chaplain front, my packet of information is just about complete and should go before the board of Chaplains on June 18. After that it will take about a month or so to get my paperwork in order to be commissioned in the Army. After commissioning I will figure out what type of practicums I could do with the Army. We'll see what happens. One cool part of this will be the role my dad will take. As a retired Army Colonel, he will lead me in my oath of office as a Second Lieutenant. It will be really cool!


Rob

Physical Waiver

I got my waiver! Although the whole recruiting team is in San Diego this week, the NCO I've been working with passed on the good news through a short e-mail. I don't know if my packet will be complete before boards for this month, but I am sure I will have everything ready by June. I am really pumped. Thanks to all of your prayers. Katie and I appreciate them.


Rob

All But Graduated

Well, I found out today that I was awarded an A on my culmination project. I was really excited! I also paid my 40 cent fine from the library, whew. Anyway, I am on my way to graduation. The graduation ceremonies are in two weeks. While I am in the midst of another class right now with Liberty, it is really exciting to think about graduation.

In regards to the Army, I have to wait another week. All the recruiters are in San Diego at a recruiters conference. Kind of a bummer, but oh well. I should find out next week whether or not I got my waiver. The real bummer is I was supposed to make sure my background check was properly filled out so my packet could go to the board of Chaplains next week. I guess it wouldn't matter if I don't get a waiver, so I will probably have to wait until the June boards if all goes well with the physical. We'll see.

Rob

God's Sovereignty

We took a step back yesterday in this process of joining the Army, but the door is not shut yet. I was Disqualified by MEPS. Meaning, the Military Entrance Processing Station doctors did not feel I met the medical qualifications to be in the US Army. So, what's next? My medical packet is sent to an Army doctor. He reviews the records and I believe he reviews my potential job function to see if the medical condition will adversely affect my ability to complete my job in any type of location, meaning both in a combat and non-combat situation. He can then either choose to waive my condition and allow me in the Army or he can permanently disqualify me from the Army. All I have to say is, we'll see what God does. I serve a God who created the everything from nothing. If it is His desire I serve in the Army, than I am not going to sit back and worry about it. It will happen. If He, in His infinite wisdom, knows that I will function in the Body of Christ more effectively somewhere else, than who am I to get in the way of God?

Certainly, there will be disappointment since I am still human. But, I am confident of what the Scripture says, He is faithful to complete the work He began in me. I have a pastor friend and mentor who shared with me on the phone the other day. He basically encouraged me that God has way too much invested in my wife and I to have us sit on the shelf. And so, we confidently ask God to continue to lead, knowing that He loves us and has a perfect plan for our lives.

If you are reading this and you are a follower of Christ, I ask that you just take a second and pray for us. Pray that I will be open to the movement of God in our lives, whether that is in the Army as a Chaplain, or as the pastor of a local church, or wherever. I want to serve my God and use my gifts for His glory!

Thanks for reading and thanks for your prayers.

Rob

Done With My Culmination Project

I have finished my culmination project! It's very strange, because the completion of this project means I have fulfilled all the requirements for graduation. How crazy is that? So, in three weeks I will graduate from Huntington Graduate School of Christian Ministries with a Masters of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministries. Woo hoo!

I have to say, it is pretty exciting to see how God works in our lives. Five years ago, a Masters degree was not on the brain. Based on my academic records from my undergraduate education, I had all but figured that I would probably not get any further education. Then God took my wife and I to Huntington to be a part of a church planting team. In Huntington, I stumbled upon the grad. school. I checked it out and even took one class. Then, about a year and a half later, God opened up the door for me to go full time. Let me tell you how awesome it has been. I have thoroughly enjoyed everything about this program. The classroom interaction, the professors, and even the work has been really fun. God not only used this program to better prepare me for ministry, but now I have 42 of the 72 hours I need for the Army. How amazing is my God? He is really amazing! I love how God brought me to a program that fit me like a glove. It couldn't have been better.

Now we embark on the next chapter. A little more school through Liberty and then, Lord willing, in to the Army. Walking with Jesus sure is exciting! While my wife and I are really looking forward to the Army, we can't wait to see what He'll do this year!


Rob

Quick Update

Just a quick update. I am busily working on finishing my culmination project for my MA. It is due Saturday and while I feel very good about where I am in the process, I have to take advantage of the time because some friends of ours are watching our son.

I start my first class through Liberty next week. It's exciting. I'll be glad to get this big project off of my plate so I can focus on the next phase of our lives. I also found out that Liberty University will give me 9 credit hours for completing CHOBLC! This is great! Because of this news, I am changing the plans a little. Instead of only going to phase 1 this January, I am hoping to go to all three phases. 16 weeks! Following CHOBLC I will only have one class to complete in order to fulfill the 72 hour requirements for the Army. The time line doesn't change much, but I will not have to go to phases 2 and 3 next summer. I will be done with them by April with all my classes completed by July. We'll see what happens. It is an exciting journey!


Rob

We've Got a Plan

I don't know what your theology is on making plans versus allowing God to guide each step. I have really wrestled with this in the past and have come to a place where I feel comfortable in my walk with Jesus. I used to believe it was faithless to make plans. I believed that I needed to wait on God and allow him to move in my life. This is a far cry from my natural tendencies. I am one who likes to see a plan laid out. And while I am glad that God took me to that place, I think I have found a more realistic place to live. Now, I ask God to guide the plans I make. And then in the midst of working through those plans, I realize God may change them.

I have the next year pretty well worked out. I start my first class through Liberty at the beginning of May. By fall, I am taking two classes every eight weeks. In January, I'll take some time off from classes and attend CHOBLC for six weeks. After CHOBLC, I will have four classes to complete by July allowing me to go to phases 2 and 3 next summer. And in the midst of this, I have to finish ordination and eventually apply for active duty. Yes, it will be a little busy. But here's where I feel I've grown: this next year may not work out like I have planned! Something may come up and I may have to change my plans. So be it. But, I feel that it is important to have something to shoot for. I don't know where the quote comes from but it goes something like this, "Aim at nothing and you'll hit it every time." I believe that making plans does not quench the Holy Spirit in my life. It allows me to go for something recognizing that if God has something else in mind, he will show me. So that's our plan. My wife and I are pumped about it! We are enjoying the process of watching our son grow and look expectantly to the birth of a new baby in September. And then we'll just keep on walking. Asking God to guide each step we take as we walk with Him.

Rob

Moving Right Along

It's been a little while since my last post. I guess I just wanted to actually have something to update. I saw my Doc today and there were no problems. He is writing his evaluation for the Army so I can fax it to my recruiter and eventually MEPs. My packet is so close. Basically, my packet is a bunch of information that will go before the board of Chaplains for them to look over and approve me as a Chaplain Candidate. It should go before the board in May. This is exciting, but unfortunate. I was hoping to get to phase 1 this summer, but that does not look as though it will happen. More than likely, I will go to phase 1 in the fall or winter. My wife and I are talking about which would be better considering we have a baby due in September. We'll see how the Lord leads.

Rob

Soooo Close

Ok, so I didn't make it through the day without having to get a waiver. I knew I wouldn't, but I was hopeful. But I did make it through the day and I only have to get a couple things checked out by my Doc. It shouldn't be a problem. So, we're continuing to move ahead. It is an exciting and overwhelming time. A lot to get done. I am close to completing my culmination project for my current masters degree! I am pumped!

Rob

It's Time!

It's time! I hope. I am scheduled for MEPS tomorrow. To update: MEPS stands for Military Entrance Processing Station. It's like the most intense physical anyone could ever go through. Lord willing I will get through and there will be no problems.

Once I get through MEPS, the process really gets going. After MEPS, my packet of information gets sent to the Chief of Chaplains. He and a board of Chaplains decide whether or not to accept me as a Chaplain Candidate. If I am accepted I will be sworn in as a 2 Lt. and I begin my time in the Army. This is where it gets exciting! After getting commissioned, I can do other things. I can hook up with a reserve unit or an Army Post and "shadow" a chaplain for up to 45 days a year. I can apply to do a Clinical Pastoral Education module for 75 days at an Army hospital. But best of all, I will be set to complete phase 1 of Chaplains Officers Basic Leadership Course. This is a six week course designed to teach Army protocol, Basic Army skills, and an introduction to the Army Chaplaincy. If my packet gets to the boards by April, I am hoping to go through this course in June. If it doesn't, then I will probably not go until next year. But that's ok! We know God's got a plan and we just want to trust in Him! The first step. Get through MEPS. I'll let you know how it goes.

Rob

The Process

Here we are. For some reason the Army doesn't like my gall stones. I don't know why. But I am in the process of working that out.

The good news! I thought, for some crazy reason, that I would have to go to Phase One, the first six weeks of Officers Basic for Chaplains, before I could take part in other potential Chaplain training. See, as a Chaplain Candidate, I can work up to 45 days a year as a "shadow" of Active Duty Chaplains. And I get paid! Well, I just assumed that I would have to go and learn all the Army protocol stuff before they would allow me to do this. I was wrong. I don't have to go to Phase One before doing this "shadowing." That is Great! You see, I would really would like to apply to do what is called, Introductory CPE, with the Army. That is Clinical Pastoral Education, (more acronyms) CPE is hospital chaplain training. Introductory CPE is a short 10 week course that is available to Chaplain Candidates at a couple Army Hospitals. I am hoping to apply to this course which takes place from January to March at Fort Sam Houston. I am excited to know that as long as I eventually get through MEPS, I could apply to this without having to worry about Phase One right now!

Anyway, this is a definite praise for my process. It gives me hope that I can still start my military career even if I don't go to CHOBLC this summer! That is exciting. Now, we are praying that I get through this physical. I don't think anything is really wrong with me, but I have to get through MEPS before anything else can happen. Fortunately, God's timing is perfect! We know that whatever He has in store for Katie and I is better than anything we could dream up. We'll continue to wait on Him, the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

Rob

Research

I'm in the process of completing a research project for my masters degree. It is called a "culmination project" but is kind of like a thesis. The goal is to do some new research that will be applicable to my ministry in the future.

I have been working on this on and off for the whole school year. My focus is basically looking at three different types of pastoral education; the seminary, the Bible College, and the local church or denominational training program and comparing them looking for the positive and negative aspects of each. After surveying four church programs, six seminaries, and three Bible colleges, I am convinced that each have their place for training up pastors. Now I get to look at the specifics of each and look for the positive and negative aspects of each type of training model. It has been quite fun but I am really looking forward to getting it completed. I have to turn in a rough draft sometime in the next couple weeks. That's not a problem because I have a lot of work already finished, I just have to analyze it and document it. It will be fun.

Why is this applicable to me? I believe that some day in my life of ministry, I will be a part of training up pastors for the ministry. I don't know when or what that looks like, but I wanted to look at different types of training models so I could both counsel people as they wrestle with their call to ministry and how to get their training and so I could figure out which would probably be the best fit for my gifts and talents. We'll see how God uses this. It will be interesting.

Updates on the Chaplaincy: Well, I'm still waiting on MEPS. I have everything completed that I can do to get my packet before the board which I am still hoping happens in April. I am just waiting to hear back on whether or not I need a waiver or a consult for my medical issues. In the mean time, I am trusting that God will open and close doors as He sees fit. I have probably called the recruiter every other day. Just want to make sure I don't take a back seat.

Rob

Waiting

Kind of a challenging day. More challenging than someone living on the street with no food? Absolutely not! But my God even cares about my seemingly insignificant challenges. I am working this chaplaincy thing to the core and I know I need to just chill out and let God take over. I think I have done just about everything I can do before I actually get my MEPS physical. So, until the Army says they want me, I just have to rest in God's timing. Not an easy thing for me to do. But it is vital that I allow God to control this process. Wherever we end up, it is important that I continue to learn the importance of waiting on my God. I am thankful for his patience as he walks with me every day.

Acts 8:26-40
Reading in the book of Acts tonight. God led Philip out of a great revival to share the message of Jesus with one man on his way back home. What an amazing God I serve. He will lead me to the place he wants me. Until then, may I have the attitude of a servant so He can use me right where I am.

Rob

The Root of my Calling

The title of my blog is Rob's Calling. But I want anyone who happens upon this little blog amidst the massiveness of the world wide web to understand the basis of this call.

It is a relationship. It is not a religion. It is not just a faith group labeled by sociologists. It is a relationship with the living God. I've recently begun reading The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer. Oh my! I strongly encourage anyone to pick it up. Anyway, I can't comment on the whole of it yet, because I have only begun the book, but I can comment on the first couple pages. The first line of the book is powerful. Tozer writes, "Christian theology teaches the doctrine of prevenient grace, which, briefly stated, means that before man can seek God, God must first have sought the man." Do you know what this means? The God of all creation seeks to have a relationship with me. Not because I am good. Not because I have anything of value accept that I am his child. You see, the root of my calling is based on my relationship with God through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because without Jesus, my imperfection separates me from a perfect God. But because of my faith in Jesus as the perfect sacrifice, God no longer sees my screw ups, he sees Jesus. And as a result, I can fellowship with him!

I wanted to write this tonight because I am constantly amazed at the blessings I have in knowing him. I have been a follower of Christ for 21 years. And the fact that God loves me and wants to walk with me daily still blows me away.

Let me encourage you that if you are also a follower of Christ, continue to seek him and build on the relationship you already have. If you are not a follower of Christ, I encourage you to pursue God. Don't get tripped up by religion, just pursue Jesus.

Making a Mess

Have you ever noticed how cleaning sometimes makes more of a mess than it was before? Well, today I am cleaning my little office, reorganizing my files, (which is way overdo) and throwing a ton of junk in the trash. I am basically going through all my folders from my grad. school classes thus far and am trying to organize all the information I got in those great classes.

It's interesting how the Army has changed in the past few years. When I first started praying about the Army Chaplaincy, I would have been required to get an Masters of Divinity and have two years of pastoring after graduation before I could apply for active duty. Now, for I'm sure many reasons, an Army Chaplain needs only 72 graduate level hours with a certain number of hours in five different categories. And in regards to the two years of service after graduation: the Army is willing to waive it if the Endorsing Denomination says the person has sufficient experience. Not that I am against school, but it's interesting how things change. The school I am attending, Huntington University Graduate School of Christian Ministries does not have an MDiv. And while in no way would I criticize anyones particular educational process, I have loved my educational experience. My MA in Pastoral Ministries is only 42 hours, so I need another 30 to fulfill the Army requirements. I will probably take some online courses to fill some of the slots in the five categories I mentioned earlier and focus on taking some extra counseling courses at my current school to prepare for the many opportunities for counseling I'm sure I will have in the Army. I still have to talk to the recruiter about this possibility. But, if it all works out, and if the Lord opens the doors, I hope to be done by next spring or summer. We'll see.

As far as ministry experience. God has given my wife and I a number of amazing ministry opportunities, from church planting to jail ministry. It has been good and I can honestly look back and be thankful that God gave me these experiences before my wife and I went full force into the process of joining the Army.

It has been and will continue to be an amazing adventure as we daily walk with our loving God.

MEPS

MEPS is an acronym. The Army is full of them. It stands for Military Entrance Processing Station. Anyway, they are located all around the country. Basically it is the most intense physical out there. I can't imagine the NFL conducts physicals like the ones at MEPS. Anyway, I was supposed to make my trip to MEPS physical today, but because of "possible gall stones" I was told to stay home. Now my records get sent to another doctor who decides if I need a consult from a surgeon. If he says I do, then hopefully it will happen quickly. If not I should be able to get to MEPS more quickly. A waiver basically says, "Hey, this thing you were worried about, well don't." So, thus begins the process. I honestly don't know what to think. I must admit I was really frustrated last night, but the Lord has calmed me down. I am trusting in His leading. Hopefully I will end up at MEPS sometime next week. We'll see.

By the way for those of you who are interested, my goal is to get all my paperwork in so I can be presented as a potential Chaplain Candidate by the time the April Boards meet. That way, I can hopefully attend CHBOLC this summer in Fort Jackson, SC. (More on that later.)

Feel free to check back. I will be adding options to this blog as time goes on. This is a first attempt for me, so it will take time.

Rob

First Entry

Here it is! The first entry of my blog. I don't imagine anyone will read this quite yet, but hey, it's a start. I guess I should introduce myself.

I am the husband of pretty much the most beautiful woman in all of creation!,
I am the father of one, but soon two,
I am a pastor,
I am starting the process to becoming an Army Chaplain.

It will be an exciting time. I hope to share about it here. And if God closes the door to this amazing ministry opportunity, I know there is something else out there that he wants to do my life.