Theory in Action

Many of my posts are theory posts, such as where I pray at a ceremony in the hope that someone someday will know that they can come to me with an issue because I am the "praying man", or whether or not military ministry equals missions. The study of theory is important, sure, but sometimes it all comes down to putting that theory to a test and seeing what actions come about because of it.

Action has taken place recently in the lives of two Sailors. Obviously I won't share anything about their stories, but the thing that makes me realize I'm where God wants me is that both of these men came to me with their problems, even though I'm not in the chain of command for them.

The truth is that I didn't know how to handle either of the issues. I'm not a counselor. I'm just a concerned Christian. My hope is that I can help them when they need it, and if they need it again, I'm here for them.

It came down to crunch time for both of them, and I witnessed outright to one and planted a seed for follow up with the other. I've been talking to God about these two men for a while now, and God brought them to their knees. I'm grateful to be used by God and I hope that these men get what they need, even if it's not from me.

Theory about military ministry aside, there are real people hurting in the US Armed Services. I saw pain on the face of a Sailor yesterday that was heart-wrenching, and there are hundreds just like him who need prayer and support. The field is ripe for harvest!

4 comments:

Rev. Mike said...

Hi Dan,

I recently received the KREATIV BLOGGER award, and I wanted you to be recognized as well. Come and check it out when you get a chance.

Mike T.

Mark n Misti said...

Being former military myself, I know that there are times that your shipmates/friends would rather talk to a "real" person, rather than a chain of command. Even though you guys are in the military, you are still human beings and are in need of regular everyday conversations. Great work!

The Navy Christian said...

You're absolutely right, and I'm sure it's the same in all vocations too. Although the military is probably unique, it probably isn't that much different. I'm sure you have folks at your job who need the same thing, right?

Mark n Misti said...

well my company just went to a different operating model, on paper we really do not have supervisors. We now have team leaders, and we are all part of the team....go figure. My company did a bunch of restructuring and layed alot of people off due to the economy. But to answer your question, yes, there are people here that just need a good friend to talk to.