I have now reached 2,300 miles in my goal of walking the 3,000-mile distance from Boston to Seattle. I began two years ago during the national American Legion’s 100 Miles for Hope campaign. I’ve continued this long in discipline and determination, walking every day, rain or shine. One of my best friends, a retired Army chaplain and former Navy SEAL, told me, “You are really focused and motivated!”
Several years ago, he invited me to his 50th reunion in San Diego. Around the room, I saw many old veterans as well as some young SEAL trainees serving at the event. I also had the honor to take a picture with former four-star Navy SEAL commander, William McRaven. Thereafter, I purchased two of his books, which gave me more insights into the life of a SEAL. During their tough training, they can quit by ringing the bell, but many continue to persevere. McRaven urges his readers to have the mindset of never giving up. Never give up if you want to achieve your goals.
Furthermore, I had a chance to visit the National Navy UDT/SEAL Museum at Fort Pierce, Fla., last year. Again, as I walked around looking at all the displays, I was even more convinced of their courage and perseverance, which developed from their ongoing training and deployments in critical and dangerous combat situations. Thus they are respected by people around the world.
The Bible tells us, “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him” (2 Timothy 2:3-4). Soldiers can endure suffering and hardship because they never give up. I encourage you to be a good soldier, aiming to please Christ with your perseverance, obedience and trust. Never surrender your faith in God, as you walk with Him until you finish your race in this world. Maranatha!