Part of My Soldier Story

I remember many years ago when I was still a Soldier in the Military of America when our Battalion was out on combat maneuvers a very special event that has remained with me all my life till now. I would like to share that with you my Christian friends. One day one of my fellow Soldiers and I were sitting under and Oak tree waiting for our Company Commander to call us off our break time. My friend and I were talking about why God allows us Soldiers to suffer so much. Suddenly we both looked up and there was a Chaplain of Rank Major standing beside our tree. We were shocked and immediately stood up and saluted. He very kindly told us to relax. We asked him how he found us way out in the “Boonies” (Far away from everyone in the field). And, he said he had an intuition to just walk out where we were. So, after our shock, we asked him what he wanted. He simply said, “I am here because God told me that there were some Troops who needed some guidance.” I asked him what he meant. He replied, “Sergeant, you will one day be a man that God will use to help suffering Soldiers and others.” I replied, “But, I am just a no body! I’m not even sure that I believe as you do.” He replied, “Be patient! The time will come when you will learn what Christ wants.” At that time I was a Squad leader and I did not know how to comfort and encourage my fighting troops with the right words beyond the usual Vietnam war Clichés, like “Suck it up!” and such sayings. I needed REAL answers to tell my men that God Loved and Cared for them and that they were doing the right thing for the right reason. Now, after talking with the Chaplain, I had some answers! That was a great turning point for me and my men. I began to lead them as if God was protecting and leading us. He did! It has taken me over five decades to now understand what that experience meant to me. And, with all my imperfections as a human being, I KNOW what that Chaplain meant way back then. It has been my privilege to be a servant of my God since that time. And, although I have suffered terribly through several wars and conflicts after that, I would not have chosen any other way as both Soldier and Pastor for Jesus. In fact, I did NOT choose it. I had to be forced into it! But, it has all been worth it! My men survived! And, I survive to Glorify Christ! Well, that is only one part of my life story that I will never forget. I have other stories too! But, that’s for later. Blessings in His NAME.