Sunday morning, I preached an expository sermon from 1 Peter on living as resident foreigners and enduring hardships for the sake of Christ. I began by leading our congregation in prayer for persecuted believers in Sudan. Afterward, we enjoyed a fellowship lunch where I introduced three new Airmen to some of our retirees—men and women who were serving long before these young Airmen were born.
This might sound like a typical day for any Baptist pastor, but for a military chaplain, it’s just the beginning.
Monday, I joined a training mission with a flying unit aboard a HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter. Before takeoff, I spent time talking with five aircrew members about their families and adjusting to life at our base. As we prepared to depart, the pilot turned to me and asked, “Chap, you want to say a prayer for our flight?” “Absolutely,” I replied, praying over the mission and crew.
During the flight, we trained at a gun range where Special Mission Aviators fired a .50-caliber machine gun at old tanks and vehicles. Later, while practicing combat landings, I spotted an elk running through the forest. “Elk at 3 o’clock!” I called out, and to my surprise, the pilot turned the aircraft, giving the crew a moment to marvel at God’s creation before we resumed training.
Back at the hangar, a young maintainer stopped by my office. “Got a minute, chaplain?” he asked. “You bet!” I replied. Within moments, we were discussing deep struggles—relationships, grief, struggles at work or thoughts of suicide. In these confidential conversations, God often uses chaplains to restore hope and help service members reconnect to Him.
This is just a glimpse of the life of a military chaplain—a unique ministry that touches lives on the ground and in the skies. If you’ve ever wondered what this calling looks like, I invite you to watch this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IrqDTEsIkc.
We are also hosting Military Chaplaincy: Explo 2025, A Day in the Life at Tinker Air Force Base Friday, March 7, 2025, from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Oklahoma pastors, church leaders, and members are invited to learn more about military ministry, tour aircraft and vehicles, and share an encouraging word with our service members.
Visit http://www.tinyurl.com/tinker2025 or scan the QR code for more info and to sign up. Who in your church might be called to serve as a chaplain or religious affairs specialist? I hope to see you there!
