A couple of weeks ago I noticed that 9/11 was on a Sunday, since this was an important day in my life I wanted to share some thoughts and encouragement to the congregation. I was kind of nervous about it and wasn’t sure what i was going to say.  While on a trip to Reno with my Dad I had a dream where I got up in front of church read a statement and sat back down, my family was there it was one of the clearest dreams I had ever had.  When i woke up i told my dad about this dream and he said I should write it down, so i did.  After I read it out loud it sounded pretty good, I added a few minor touches but I knew this was a message from god.  I am always amazed how God talks to us and encourages us in times when we need him Most.

 

 

On September 7th 2001 I joined the US Army to serve as a Chaplain Assistant, I felt God was putting this on my heart and I listened eventually after I got over my own selfish desires. 

It was the right thing to do.

My journey has been long and filled with joy, sadness and frustration.

I served in the Special Forces as a Chaplain Assistant on active duty for four years then transferred to the Army Reserves in 2008

Today we remember a tragic event that happened ten years ago. Many good Men and Women lost their lives that day and others continue to live without loved ones  

It was a senseless act of violence against out country because of hate.

Even if you don’t agree with the war going on right now, I think you could agree that our men and women who are serving deserve our respect and support

We still have young men and women away from home in danger everyday

We still have towns all over our country that are missing key people in their communities

We have wives and husbands missing their significant others 

We have sons and daughters missing their parents

 

It is an honor for me to have served for the last ten years, it has been quite a journey and learning experience and in January I will have the honor of serving along side my Chaplain in a war zone helping minister and bring our soldiers home.

 

I will be in a place that isn’t safe and comfy like my living room couch

My wife will be without her husband while I’m gone

My two little girls will be with out a father at home while I’m gone

My Mother and Father and Sister and Brother will be without me while I am gone

But like I said it is an honor for me to be able to serve my country in this way

A country that allows me to be a Pastor and help students find their faith

A country that has allowed me to attend any college I would like and study anything I would like

A country that allows my children to go to school

So In January when I board that plane out of the comfort of a country that has been so good to us I will be proud. 

And as I board that helicopter to the base I will serve at

I’ll be holding my head up, honored to be able to serve this great nation I love

 

As you reflect on this day please take a moment to remember those serving and those who have served this country we live in.

Please pray for my family during this time.

 

Thank-You and God Bless 

Jonathan

Chaplain Assistant

United States Army