I've never taken basic military training, but I've heard about it. Dad, Uncle Mel, April, my cousins and so many of the soldiers and sailors in our family. It is always an honor to be asked to pray for those in active service, especially during basic training.
Basic training is a time of isolation from family as a soldier establishes a new family. The family back home is not forgotten, but to serve with safety and with excellence, they must embrace what it means to be apart of a new team.
The stories from basic training are can be summed up by saying, "It's hard!" It's hot. It's exhausting. It pushes every emotional button and physical limit. At the end of basic training, families who watch the graduation ceremony are always a bit in awe. They sent a kid... and now they have a soldier. Honestly, it chokes me up every time.
This scripture is a favorite of mine. On different days, it inspires me in different ways. On this particular day, I read it and see a synopsis of our basic training:
"He has told you, O man, what is good;and what does the Lord require of you: but to do justice, and to love kindness,and to walk humbly with your God?" -Micah 6:8
We know what is good. He told us. We know what is required, He showed us. Justice requires action. Love requires kindness. Exercise humility when walking with our Lord.
Like basic training, we have to learn to look with a new set of eyes. Putting on our God goggles to try and what he sees. This world is in desperate need of mercy, justice, compassion and humility. Our training comes by His Word and His Spirit. We may get tired and discouraged, but we are never alone. His purpose will not be thwarted.
Encouraging each other. It makes a difference. It grows the family. Be strong and courageous.
Today, I am grateful for basic training.
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