Tag: christian

Head on a swivel! – #109

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospels of Matthew and Mark to hear Jesus’ warning about the ambushes the leaders of His day walked into.  

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document) 

Matthew 16:5–12, Mark 8:14–21

When they crossed to the other side, the disciples forgot to take bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. “Watch out!” Jesus cautioned them. “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and of Herod.” So they began to discuss with one another the fact that they had no bread. They concluded, “It is because we did not bring any bread.”

Aware of their conversation, Jesus said, “You of little faith, why are you debating among yourselves about having no bread? Do you still not understand? Do you have such hard hearts? ‘Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear?’ Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand. When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of broken pieces did you collect?” “Twelve,” they answered. “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of broken pieces did you collect?” “Seven,” they said. How do you not understand that I was not telling you about bread? But beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Then they understood that He was not telling them to beware of the leaven used in bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

My Thoughts 

“Keep your head on a swivel!” This is a common admonition of many infantry leaders to their troops going into hostile territory. In other words, “Watch out! Keep looking around for the enemy!” And that’s what Jesus is saying to His men here about the leadership in their country, both religious and secular.

The religious leaders I mentioned in the last post had “lost the bubble” in their spirituality by becoming focused on their own ambitions and success. They were playing a religious game to maintain control of the people and reap the financial benefits. Jesus basically gives His disciples this warning, “Look out! You’re in enemy territory and you could fall into the same trap they had succumbed to. Whatever ambush had waylaid them, could also take you out!”

And it’s interesting in Mark’s rendition, Jesus even includes Herod, a secular leader. So this ambush isn’t just taking out the religious. It’s getting the political leadership as well. And I think if we looked at it closely, we would see the potential danger for ALL leaders. 

So what is the sneaky ambush the enemy had used on these leaders to warrant such a warning from the Messiah? What is the “leaven?” Here’s my guess. I’ve seen in the Scriptures and in life that leaders are normally taken out by two things; Power and Greed. Sex, alcohol, drugs, crime and many more things are pretty obvious when it comes to the danger zones for leaders. But power and greed are subtle. They sneak up on you a little at a time… like leaven leavens the whole lump of dough. They are the enemy’s ambush hiding in the bushes.

Let me give you two really prevalent examples;

  1. A ministry leader starts with a humble vision, guiding his Christian organization with a servant’s heart. As his influence grows, so does the taste for power. He relishes the way his words sway the organization and how his decisions shape their lives. Slowly, the thrill of control intoxicates him—staff meetings become battlegrounds, and dissent feels like betrayal. His once-warm counsel turns into commands, his care for souls overshadowed by a need to dominate. Unaware, he trades his calling as a servant for the mantle of fear. The meek man who once knelt in prayer now stands tall, clutching authority like a scepter. His organization, once partners in faith, shrink into subjects under his unyielding grip.
  1. A pastor begins his journey with noble intentions, shepherding a small congregation while earning a modest salary to supplement his part-time job. His heart burns with zeal for the Lord and a genuine love for his flock. Then comes an unexpected call to a larger church, offering a full-time salary that promises stability. He accepts, feeling it’s a divine step forward. Over the years, more calls follow—each to a bigger church, each with a heftier paycheck. He moves from one pulpit to the next, convinced he’s following a higher purpose. Yet, beneath the surface, something shifts. He fails to notice that his fiery devotion to God and his tender care for people are quietly eroding, steadily replaced by an unspoken greed for more money and the comforts it brings. The thrill of a larger salary begins to outweigh the joy of ministry. By the time he’s leading a sprawling congregation, his sermons feel polished but hollow, his prayers more routine than heartfelt. The man who once sought to serve now chases the next raise, blind to how far he’s drifted from the calling that once defined him.

These are just two real-life examples of many I’ve seen over my 45 years in the faith. They are examples of people that did not keep their “head on a swivel.” They did not “watch out.” Sad but true. “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and of Herod.” 

My Story

I have to admit that there have been times where I didn’t follow Jesus’ advice to “keep my head on a swivel” and watch out for “the leaven of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and of Herod.” One such time when we were restructuring a leadership team. The “Director” asked us what we thought a potential title we should be called and much to my chagrin I said “Directors of XYZ.” It just makes sense right? He was the Director over the whole and we were Directors over the parts. 

I have regretted the word “Director” coming out of my mouth ever since. My heart wasn’t right and this was immediately apparent as soon as I took “charge.” I rushed into a problem area like the Master Sergeant I once was in the Army and made the situation even more of a disaster than it already was. You should have heard the “beep, beep, beep” as I threw my leadership in reverse when I realized I had grabbed the tiger by the tail. These people were not going to follow me or change no matter what my title was.

I had let the power go to my head and it was a painful lesson. Fortunately, pain is a great teacher and I have not used that power play since. I have a whole different philosophy of spiritual leadership as a result. If I had to do it over again, when asked what my position should have been called? I would say “Servant of XYZ” not “Director.”

If you want more lessons learned about spiritual leadership, just ask. I’ve got stories coming out of my ears.

Our Action Plan

Now it’s time for application. Here’s some ideas;

  • Have you seen or experienced the pull of these two insidious poisons; Power or Greed?
  • How did you recognize them and what did you do about them?
  • Do a Bible study on these two ambushes with those you’re discipling.

“Keep your head on a swivel” and beware the leaven of power and greed. This remains a timeless caution for leaders, as these subtle ambushes can quietly corrupt even the most well-intentioned hearts. By staying vigilant and rooted in servanthood, we can avoid the traps that ensnared the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herod. Let’s ensure our leadership reflects the humility and purpose of Christ.

¡Gira la cabeza! – #109

¡Bienvenidos de nuevo! Hoy analizaremos los Evangelios de Mateo y Marcos para escuchar la advertencia de Jesús sobre las emboscadas en las que cayeron los líderes de su época.

¡Comencemos!

Mateo 16:5-12, Marcos 8:14-21

Cuando cruzaron al otro lado, los discípulos olvidaron llevar pan, excepto uno que llevaban en la barca. «¡Cuidado!», les advirtió Jesús. «Cuídense de la levadura de los fariseos, de los saduceos y de Herodes». Así que comenzaron a discutir entre sí sobre la falta de pan. Concluyeron: «Es porque no trajimos pan».

Al tanto de su conversación, Jesús dijo: «Hombres de poca fe, ¿por qué discuten entre ustedes sobre la falta de pan? ¿Aún no entienden? ¿Tienen un corazón tan duro? «Teniendo ojos, ¿no ven? ¿Y teniendo oídos, ¿no oyen?» ¿No recuerdan los cinco panes para los cinco mil? Cuando partí los cinco panes para los cinco mil, ¿cuántas cestas llenas de pedazos recogieron? «Doce», respondieron. Y cuando partí los siete panes para los cuatro mil, ¿cuántas cestas llenas de pedazos recogieron? «Siete», dijeron. «¿Cómo no entienden que no les estaba hablando del pan? Pero cuídense de la levadura de los fariseos y de los saduceos». Entonces comprendieron que no les estaba diciendo que se cuidaran de la levadura del pan, sino de la enseñanza de los fariseos y de los saduceos.

Mis Pensamientos

“¡Manténganse alerta!” Esta es una advertencia común de muchos líderes de infantería a sus tropas al entrar en territorio hostil. En otras palabras: “¡Cuidado! ¡Manténganse alertas por si ven al enemigo!”. Y eso es lo que Jesús les dice a sus hombres aquí sobre el liderazgo en su país, tanto religioso como secular.

Los líderes religiosos que mencioné en la publicación anterior habían perdido la espiritualidad al centrarse en sus propias ambiciones y éxito. Estaban jugando un juego religioso para mantener el control del pueblo y obtener beneficios económicos. Jesús básicamente les advierte a sus discípulos: “¡Cuidado! Están en territorio enemigo y podrían caer en la misma trampa en la que ellos sucumbieron. Cualquier emboscada que los haya acechado, ¡también podría acabar con ustedes!”.

Y es interesante que, en la interpretación de Marcos, Jesús incluso incluya a Herodes, un líder secular. Así que esta emboscada no solo está acabando con los religiosos, sino también con el liderazgo político. Y creo que, si lo analizamos con atención, veremos el peligro potencial para TODOS los líderes. Entonces, ¿cuál es la emboscada furtiva que el enemigo había usado contra estos líderes para justificar tal advertencia del Mesías? ¿Qué es la “levadura”? Mi suposición es esta: he visto en las Escrituras y en la vida que los líderes normalmente son derrotados por dos cosas: el poder y la codicia. El sexo, el alcohol, las drogas, el crimen y muchas otras cosas son bastante obvias cuando se trata de las zonas de peligro para los líderes. Pero el poder y la codicia son sutiles. Te acechan poco a poco… como la levadura leuda toda la masa. Son la emboscada del enemigo escondida entre los arbustos.

Permítanme darles dos ejemplos muy comunes:

Un líder ministerial comienza con una visión humilde, guiando a su organización cristiana con un corazón de siervo. A medida que su influencia crece, también crece su deseo de poder. Disfruta de cómo sus palabras influyen en la organización y cómo sus decisiones moldean sus vidas. Poco a poco, la emoción del control lo embriaga: las reuniones de personal se convierten en campos de batalla y la disidencia se siente como una traición. Sus consejos, antes cálidos, se convierten en órdenes; su preocupación por las almas se ve eclipsada por la necesidad de dominar. Sin darse cuenta, cambia su llamado de siervo por el manto del miedo. El hombre manso que una vez se arrodilló para orar ahora se yergue erguido, aferrándose a la autoridad como a un cetro. Su organización, antes compañera en la fe, se reduce a súbditos bajo su férreo control.

Un pastor comienza su camino con nobles intenciones, pastoreando una pequeña congregación mientras gana un salario modesto para complementar su trabajo de medio tiempo. Su corazón arde de celo por el Señor y un amor genuino por su rebaño. Entonces llega un llamado inesperado a una iglesia más grande, ofreciéndole un salario de tiempo completo que promete estabilidad. Acepta, sintiendo que es un paso divino hacia adelante. Con el paso de los años, siguen más llamados, cada uno a una iglesia más grande, cada uno con un sueldo más cuantioso. Pasa de un púlpito a otro, convencido de que persigue un propósito superior. Sin embargo, bajo la superficie, algo cambia. No se da cuenta de que su ardiente devoción a Dios y su tierno cuidado por los demás se están erosionando silenciosamente, reemplazados constantemente por una codicia tácita de más dinero y las comodidades que este brinda. La emoción de un salario mayor comienza a superar la alegría del ministerio. Para cuando dirige una congregación extensa, sus sermones se sienten pulidos pero vacíos, sus oraciones más rutinarias que sinceras. El hombre que una vez buscó servir ahora persigue el siguiente aumento, ciego a cuánto se ha desviado del llamado que una vez lo definió.

Estos son solo dos ejemplos reales de muchos que he visto en mis 45 años de fe. Son ejemplos de personas que no mantuvieron la cabeza en alto. No se cuidaron. Triste pero cierto. «Cuídense de la levadura de los fariseos, de los saduceos y de Herodes».

Mi Historia

Debo admitir que a veces no seguí el consejo de Jesús de “mantener la cabeza alerta” y cuidarme de “la levadura de los fariseos, saduceos y Herodes”. Una de esas ocasiones, cuando estábamos reestructurando un equipo de liderazgo, el “Director” nos preguntó qué título creíamos que deberíamos llamar y, para mi disgusto, dije “Directores de XYZ”. Tiene sentido, ¿verdad? Él era el Director del todo y nosotros, los Directores de las partes.

Desde entonces, me he arrepentido de haber pronunciado la palabra “Director”. No tenía buen corazón y esto se hizo evidente en cuanto asumí el “cargo”. Me precipité en un área problemática como el Sargento Mayor que una vez fui en el Ejército y agravé la situación. Deberían haber oído el “bip, bip, bip” cuando di marcha atrás en mi liderazgo al darme cuenta de que había agarrado al tigre por la cola. Estas personas no iban a seguirme ni a cambiar, sin importar mi título. Se me había subido el poder a la cabeza y fue una lección dolorosa. Por suerte, el dolor es un gran maestro y no he vuelto a usar ese poder desde entonces. Como resultado, tengo una filosofía de liderazgo espiritual completamente diferente. Si tuviera que volver a empezar, si me preguntaran cómo debería haberse llamado mi puesto, diría “Servidor de XYZ”, no “Director”.

Si quieres aprender más lecciones sobre liderazgo espiritual, solo pregúntame. Tengo historias que me salen de los oídos.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Ahora es momento de aplicar. Aquí tienes algunas ideas:

¿Has visto o experimentado la atracción de estos dos venenos insidiosos: el poder o la avaricia?

¿Cómo los reconociste y qué hiciste al respecto?

Realiza un estudio bíblico sobre estas dos emboscadas con tus discípulos.

Mantén la cabeza alerta y cuidate de la levadura del poder y la avaricia. Esta es una advertencia intemporal para los líderes, ya que estas sutiles emboscadas pueden corromper silenciosamente incluso los corazones mejor intencionados. Al mantenernos vigilantes y arraigados en el servicio, podemos evitar las trampas que atraparon a los fariseos, saduceos y Herodes. Asegurémonos de que nuestro liderazgo refleje la humildad y el propósito de Cristo.

Si ve un problema importante en la traducción, envíeme una corrección por correo electrónico a charleswood1@gmail.com

Chapter 28 – Flight and the Final Tests

Link to all Chapters – Text & Audio

They will mount up with wings like eagles.

Isaiah 40:31

Flight School

The morning sun painted Reynard 3’s sky in shades of amber and rose, casting long shadows across the fertile fields surrounding the base. Wade inhaled deeply, letting the rich scent of damp soil fill his lungs. Around him, the whine of anti-grav engines and the thunderous roar of atmospheric thrusters created a familiar symphony – one that had once filled him with childlike awe. Now, each sound carried a different weight, each vessel overhead a reminder of missions yet to come.

Beside him at the edge of the landing pad, Jay and Metro stood in contemplative silence. The moss beneath their boots released its earthy fragrance with each shift of their weight. Metro’s fingers absently traced the raised scar tissue on his forearm – a permanent reminder of their firefight on Carthis 7. The gesture wasn’t lost on Wade; every mark they carried told a story of survival, of lessons learned in blood and fire.

“Three months,” Metro murmured, his voice barely audible above the ambient hum of the base. “Feels like three lifetimes.” The words hung in the air, heavy with shared memories of lost comrades and near misses.

The barracks welcomed them with the sterile efficiency of military quarters, their gear stowed with the practiced precision that had become second nature. When dawn broke the next day, they found themselves facing a different kind of challenge. Gone were the thundering voices and predatory stares of their previous instructors. This phase of Ranger training carried a deceptive gentility, but Wade knew better – sometimes the deadliest predators wore the most disarming smiles.

Their first test waited below on the practice course: the Badger hovercraft. Its sleek hull caught the alien sunlight like liquid mercury, beautiful and lethal in equal measure. Wade’s pulse quickened at the sight. He’d survived combat drops and close-quarters firefights, yet something about this elegant machine made his mouth go dry. Perhaps it was the way it demanded perfection, offering no margin for the brute force solutions that had sometimes served him in training and combat.

“Sergeant Kovacs.” The instructor’s voice carried the calm assurance of someone who had seen countless recruits face this moment. “Show us what you got.”

The Badger’s cockpit enveloped Wade like a second skin, familiar yet foreign. His fingers found the controls, feeling the subtle vibrations that spoke of barely contained power. No violent shaking like the drop pods, no brutal impact of atmospheric entry – this was a dance of precision, of finesse.

The craft lifted with a whisper, responding to his touch like a living creature. Wade felt sweat bead on his forehead as he guided it forward, the rocky course stretching before him like an obstacle course designed by a sadistic enemy. A massive boulder formation loomed ahead, its jagged surface a challenge he would have once approached with hesitation.

But the Corps had changed him. Where he once saw obstacles, he now saw opportunities. The Badger responded to his subtle adjustments, banking against the natural curve of the rocks. He wasn’t fighting the terrain anymore – he was partnering with it, using the formation’s own geometry to maintain his momentum while bleeding off excess speed.

“Better,” the instructor’s voice crackled through his helmet, carrying a note of approval that meant more than any shouted praise. “But remember, Kovacs – she’s not a weapon to be wielded. She’s a partner in the dance. Let her lead sometimes.”

From their position in the observation stand, Jay and Metro watched with the knowing eyes of men who had shared suffering and success. Metro’s fingers tapped an unconscious rhythm against his leg, his body tensed as if he could feel every adjustment Wade made. They’d seen this side of him before, in moments when split-second decisions meant the difference between life and death. It wasn’t just skill they were watching – it was the quiet confidence of a born leader.

The F2-90 Stellar Scout

The days blurred together as they mastered the Badger, each session building on the last until the craft felt like an extension of their will. Then came the transition to the F2-90 Stellar-Scout simulators. The cockpit welcomed Wade and Jay like an old friend, its neural interface headset settling against their temples with intimate familiarity. This wasn’t just about flying anymore – it was about fusion, about two minds working as one.

“Pilots,” the instructor’s voice carried through the PA system, “you’ve proven you can handle the basics. Now we’ll see if you can dance in the devil’s ballroom. This neutron star field simulation has humbled better crews than yours. Remember – out there, pride kills faster than any enemy.”

The simulation erupted around them in a symphony of light and shadow. Gravimetric warnings screamed across Wade’s console like banshees, but beneath the chaos, he felt something clicking into place. This wasn’t about raw calculations anymore – it was about rhythm, about feeling the ship’s pulse and anticipating Jay’s next move before he made it.

“Gravitational shear spiking,” Jay reported, his voice carrying the same steady calm he’d maintained during their worst circumstances in training and combat. His hands moved across the controls with surgical precision, threading their way between competing gravity wells that could tear their ship apart in seconds. “Need new vectors, Wade.”

Wade’s mind raced through possibilities, combat instincts merging with mathematical precision. Perfect solutions could get you killed – he’d learned that lesson watching better men die while chasing optimal outcomes. “Feeding you new vectors… now.”

The Stellar-Scout responded like a creature born to dance among the stars, riding gravitational currents with ethereal grace. Warning indicators cascaded from danger to safety, but neither man celebrated. They weren’t just surviving anymore – they were transcending.

Hours bled into days, days into weeks, each session building not just skill but understanding. Every simulation reinforced what combat had already taught them: that trust wasn’t just about faith in each other’s abilities, but about reading the microscopic tensions in a shoulder, the subtle shifts in breathing that telegraphed intentions before words could form.

Late one night, reviewing flight logs in his quarters, Wade found himself smiling at a realization. The eager recruit who had first arrived on Rinart 3 would have seen these challenges as hurdles to overcome, tests to pass. Now he understood – they weren’t obstacles at all, but gifts. Each simulation, each flight, was another chance to refine the skills that would keep his team alive when theory gave way to brutal reality.

The familiar terrain of Reynard 3 hadn’t changed, but its meaning had. Every field, every training course, every moment in the cockpit wasn’t just about personal achievement anymore. It was about preparation for the moment when skill and trust would mean the difference between bringing everyone home or adding more names to the memorial wall.

The moment of truth arrived when they finally got to tour an actual F2-90 Stellar Scout. Lieutenant Commander Goering, a veteran Navy Flight Instructor with weather-worn features and sharp eyes, met them at the landing pad where the sleek spacecraft waited.

“Gentlemen,” he said, running a hand along the Scout’s polished hull, “this beauty is going to become your second home. She’s built for deep space exploration and reconnaissance – the kind where you might not see another human face for months.”

Wade watched Jay’s eyes light up as they approached the vessel. The morning sun caught the Scout’s aerodynamic curves, highlighting its military precision while hinting at something more elegant.

Goering led them to a recessed panel in the hull. With a practiced gesture, he pressed his palm against the access pad, and a section of the hull smoothly retracted, revealing a compact lift system. “Primary access point,” he explained as they stepped inside. “Gets you directly to the main deck. There’s emergency access hatches too, but this is your day-to-day entry.”

The lift hummed softly as it carried them upward, depositing them just aft of the Central Command Station. “CCS is your nerve center,” Goering said, stepping into the cockpit. “Two-person crew configuration – pilot and nav/comms. Everything within arm’s reach, no wasted motion.”

“Twin VTOL engines,” he continued, gesturing to the holographic displays. “She’ll lift off and land smooth as silk on just about any terrain you can imagine. Those retractable landing struts aren’t just for show – they’ll adapt to everything from crystalline ice fields to volcanic rock.”

Moving aft, he opened a sealed compartment. “And here’s something you’ll want to get familiar with – stasis pods. Latest generation cryo-sleep systems. For those extra-long hauls where even Rangers need to conserve resources. Four pods, medical-grade monitoring systems. They’ll keep you fresh for the deep space legs of your mission.”

“Armament seems light,” Wade observed, noting the modest weapon systems on a nearby display.

Goering nodded. “She’s not built for slugging it out with hostiles. But don’t let that fool you – she’s got enough teeth to get you out of a pinch. Remember, your job is to observe and report, not pick fights.”

“What about communications range?” Jay asked, his technical curiosity evident.

Goering smiled. “Thought you’d ask. State-of-the-art microwave antenna array and military-grade encryption suite. You could probably call home from the edge of known space – assuming Command lets you.”

They explored the galley and common area, where clever storage solutions and transforming furniture showed the Scout’s dual nature as both military vessel and exploration craft. “Every cubic centimeter serves a purpose,” Goering explained. “Take the crew quarters – six individual berths, but they don’t feel cramped. The designers knew Rangers spend months out there. Had to make it livable.”

A narrow stairwell led them to the lower deck, where the lab and specimen storage spaces waited. “This is where the real science happens,” Goering said, gesturing to the advanced analysis equipment. “You’re not just Marines out there – you’re explorers.”

At last, they reached the rear cargo bay. Goering touched another control panel, and the massive rear ramp began to lower, hydraulics humming smoothly. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating a rugged Badger secured in its berth. “And here’s your ground transport,” he said, patting the vehicle. “Because sometimes the only way to explore is to get your boots dirty.”

Standing at the base of the ramp, looking back at the Scout, Wade felt a new appreciation for the vessel. Goering’s voice carried the weight of experience as he concluded, “The F2-90 isn’t the biggest or most powerful ship in the fleet. But for what you Rangers do – pushing the boundaries of known space, facing the unknown – there’s nothing better. Treat her right, and she’ll bring you home.”

Their transition from simulators to the actual F2-90 Stellar-Scout proved smoother than even their instructors anticipated. The countless hours spent in virtual training had built muscle memory that translated seamlessly to the real craft. Where most trainees required six weeks to achieve basic proficiency, Wade and Jay demonstrated advanced maneuvering capabilities in just three. Their natural synchronization in the cockpit drew attention from the senior instructors, who began using their flight recordings as teaching materials for other crews. The duo’s ability to anticipate each other’s actions and maintain perfect coordination during complex maneuvers spoke to something beyond mere technical skill – it was the kind of intuitive trust that couldn’t be taught, only earned through shared experiences both in combat and training.

The familiar had indeed become new again, transformed not by time or circumstance, but by the weight of purpose that now infused every action, every decision, every breath.

Romance and Revelations

The barracks’ overhead lights had dimmed to their night-cycle setting, casting long shadows across the titanium-alloy floor panels. Wade’s boots barely made a sound as he returned from his evening maintenance shift, mind still churning over the day’s training flights. He stopped short at the familiar cadence of a voice – soft, melodic, Japanese accent distinctly out of place in the utilitarian surroundings.

“I can’t say I miss all that adventure but I sure miss you,” Mayumi’s holographic message flickered in the dim light. “I even miss your terrible jokes.”

Wade froze, suddenly feeling like an intruder. Through the half-open door, he caught a glimpse of Jay sitting on his bunk, head bowed toward the projection, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth that Wade had never seen before. It wasn’t the practiced grin Jay wore during training or the fierce determination that emerged in combat – this was something entirely different, something private.

“I keep asking Commander Chen when our security status is going to be downgraded and I would be up for reassignment,” Mayumi continued, her translucent image seeming to glow with warmth. “She told me there’s no telling when, but…” She paused, her expression softening. “Just make sure you stay in one piece, okay? The stars aren’t quite as beautiful without you here to name all the constellations wrong.”

Wade backed away silently, his mind racing through calculations of a different sort. How long had this been going on? The Jay he knew from training was all precision and protocol – seeing this other side of him was like discovering a new dimension to a familiar star chart.

His thoughts shifted to Kristen. Could she still be waiting for him? Is there any possible way she saw through the ruse of him being dead? He had to believe that the promises they made to one another as they trusted God for their relationship had to be his resting place. He reminded himself; “Always.”

Hours later, in the quiet corner of the station’s observation deck, Wade found Jay staring out at Rinart 3’s three moons. The aurora painted sheets of green and purple across the star studded sky.

“So,” Wade said, settling against the railing. “You and Mayumi?”

Jay’s shoulders tensed for a moment before relaxing. He turned, and in the shifting light from the aurora, Wade could see both embarrassment and pride warring on his friend’s face. “After what you told me about her reassignment in the Delphi Quadrant, I tracked her down and sent her a message. Just to check in, you know? I know I shouldn’t be trying to connect with the security risk and all, but then…”

“One message became two, became twenty?” Wade finished, remembering his own fumbling attempts at trying to pace himself when he was dating Kristen, trying not to seem too obsessed.

“Something like that.” Jay’s fingers traced the handrail as he leaned toward the stars. “She understands things – not just the quantum mechanics she works with, but…” he struggled for words, unusual for someone so precise in the cockpit. “She gets what it means to be out here, on the edge of everything. To love the void as much as you fear it. And Wade, her relationship with Jesus has grown leaps and bounds. It’s very…attractive.”

Wade nodded, letting the silence stretch comfortably between them. He thought about their shared history – the terror of the Skravak ship, the grueling training that followed, sharing the gospel and leading her to Christ, the way life had carried them all in unexpected directions. Yet here they were, still finding new ways to surprise each other.

“You know what’s funny?” Jay said finally, his reflection overlapping with the stars beyond. “All our training, all the simulation hours, everything we’ve survived in combat… and sending that first message to her was still the scariest thing I’ve done since enlisting.”

Wade clapped his friend’s shoulder, feeling the familiar weight of their shared experiences and this new dimension of their friendship. “Well, for what it’s worth, now I know why your landing approaches have been a little off lately. Maybe you’re a little twitterpated?”

Jay’s laugh echoed into the darkness, genuine and unguarded. “Don’t you worry bro. Even twitterpated, I’m a better pilot than you.” Playfully punching Wade in the chest.

Jay’s expression turned serious. ‘Have you tried to contact Kristen at all? Since… you know.’

Wade’s shoulders slumped. ‘You know I can’t, Jay. Not with everything that’s happened. The security protocols are there for a reason.’

‘But surely there’s some way—’ Jay started.

‘No,’ Wade cut him off firmly, though his voice carried a weight of sadness. ‘I won’t put her at risk. Not even a chance of it. The conspiracy we uncovered… it runs deep. Until everything’s fully exposed and dealt with, contacting her would be selfish.’

Jay studied his friend’s face. ‘You really love her, don’t you?’

‘Yeah,’ Wade admitted quietly, flexing his prosthetic hand. ‘That’s why I have to protect her, even if it means staying away. But I haven’t lost hope. I’m trusting God’s timing on this one.’

‘Well,’ Jay said, bumping Wade’s shoulder with his own, ‘then I’ll keep praying. This isn’t the end of the story.'”

As they stood there, watching Rinart 3’s moons slowly set beneath the horizon, Wade realized that some of the most important discoveries in space weren’t made on distant planets among the stars. They happened in these quiet moments, when the Holy Spirit reminded you that even in the vastness of space, the human heart could still chart unexpected courses.

Exploration Training

The holographic alien landscape shimmered around them, so detailed that Wade could smell what seemed like rotting vegetation. The simulation had rendered a jungle world with triple-gravity and a toxic atmosphere – exactly the kind of environment Rangers were expected to handle. Sweat trickled down his spine inside the environment suit, each movement requiring conscious effort against the crushing gravitational pull.

“Contact, two o’clock,” Jay’s voice crackled through the comm, steady despite the strain. “Biological signature. Nothing in the database matches.”

Wade’s heads-up display highlighted the movement – something serpentine sliding through the phosphorescent underbrush. Their squad had already lost two holographic members to similar unknowns. The simulation was brutally effective at teaching survival priorities: analyze, adapt, or die.

“Hold position,” Wade commanded, forcing his breathing to steady as he activated his suit’s biological analysis suite. The crushing gravity made even the smallest movements exhaust precious oxygen reserves. “Running spectral analysis.”

The creature emerged into the clearing – a writhing mass of tentacles and what appeared to be photoreceptors. Wade’s scanner beeped a warning: highly acidic secretions detected. He remembered their xenobiology instructor’s words: “Out there, everything wants to kill you. Your job is to figure out how…before it succeeds.”

“Pattern analysis suggests predatory behavior,” Metro reported from his position, the words coming in short bursts as he fought against the gravity. “Similar to the Skravak Sliders we studied from the Cygnus sector.”

Jay had already adjusted his position, using the terrain to create a crossfire zone. Three months ago, he would have just opened fire. Now, he waited, gathering data. Rangers weren’t just Marines; they were explorers, scientists, and when necessary, executioners of hostile life forms.

“Acid-based neurotoxin from the twin venom glands nestled beneath its iridescent carapace, it projects with laser-like precision.” Wade announced on the comms, watching the creature’s movements through his scope. “Similar to the Skravak’s secondary defense tactics. Metro, remember the countermeasures we developed during our last dance at the Zoo?”

“Already on it.” Metro’s suit dispensed a stream of base chemicals, creating a protective barrier around their position. The training scenarios weren’t random – they built upon real experiences, forcing the Rangers to apply past lessons to new threats.

The creature lunged, faster than its mass suggested possible. Wade’s squad responded with surgical persision, their movements economic in the crushing gravity. Their coordinated response wasn’t just about survival – it was about data collection, threat assessment, and preservation of valuable xenobiological samples.

“Clear,” Jay called out as the holographic creature dissipated. “But we’ve got atmospheric degradation incoming. Looks like this planet’s sun is about to go nova.”

Wade checked his suit’s readings. They had seventeen minutes of oxygen remaining, a damaged sample collection unit, and five kilometers of hostile terrain between them and their extraction point. In other words, a typical day in Ranger training.

“Status check,” he ordered, already calculating their optimal route.

“Suit integrity at sixty percent,” Metro reported. “But I saved the biological samples.”

“Nav system’s glitching from magnetic interference,” Jay added. “Going to have to do this old school.”

Wade allowed himself a grim smile behind his faceplate. Three months ago, this scenario would have seemed impossible. Now it was just another challenge to overcome. “Metro, take center with the samples. Jay, take point and plot us a course using stellar positioning. I’ll watch our six.”

As they moved through the hostile landscape, Wade reflected on how far they’d come. Flight school had taught them to master their vessels, but exploration training was teaching them to master themselves. Every challenge forced them to combine their skills in new ways – Jay’s intuitive grasp of spatial navigation, Metro’s encyclopedic knowledge of xenobiology, Wade’s tactical expertise.

The extraction ship appeared as a distant speck in the purple sky, a testament to their successful navigation. As the simulation faded around them, Wade caught Jay’s eye. They didn’t need words to express their shared understanding: this wasn’t just training anymore. This was preparation for a future where humanity would need every skill they were learning, and probably a few they hadn’t imagined yet.

The instructors had a saying: “In space, you improvise, adapt, and overcome or… you die. Rangers are masters of the first three.” With each passing day, Wade understood that philosophy more deeply. They were trained to the hilt and ready to graduate. They had passed the most extreme military gauntlet the Confederation had to offer. They were qualified Deep Space Rangers.

Link to all Chapters – Text & Audio

Religious Haters – #108

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospels of Matthew and Mark to see how Jesus responded to “religious haters.”  

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document) 

Matthew 16:1-4, Mark 8:11–13

Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came and began to argue with Jesus and test Him by demanding Him to show them a sign from heaven. Jesus sighed deeply in His spirit and said, “Why does this generation demand a sign? “When evening comes, you say, ‘The weather will be fair, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but not the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation demands a sign, Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation except the sign of Jonah.” And He left them, got back into the boat, and crossed to the other side.

My Thoughts 

Jesus took a lot of heat from the religious leaders of the day. They were constantly bringing accusations and badgering Him for signs that would give them clear authentication that He had authority to do and say the things He did and said. These attacks started pretty early in Jesus’ ministry. But why? Why so much hate for a simple carpenter turned rabbi with a following of common people? 

Here’s some of the things we pick up from the Scriptures about these religious leaders;

  1. They were jealous  (John 7:48-49).
  2. They were envious (Matthew 27:18, Mark 15:10)
  3. He was a threat to their authority  (John 7:48-49).
  4. He violated their traditions  (Matthew 15:1-9).
  5. He caused Sabbath controversies (John 5:18).
  6. He claimed divine Sonship (John 5:18).
  7. He performed miracles  (John 11:53, John 12:10-11).
  8. They were suppressing the truth (Romans 1:18).
  9. He called out their hypocrisy  (Matthew 23:13-36).
  10. They did not understand the Scriptures (1 Peter 2:7, Matthew 21:42, John 5:39).
  11. They feared losing their position (John 11:48).
  12. He associated with sinners (Matthew 9:11).
  13. They thought He was in league with Satan (Matthew 12:24).

That’s quite the list! As a disciple-maker have you ever met resistance like any mentioned above? And here’s the real kicker. Have you ever caused harm to a brother or sister with the kind of weapons mentioned above? 

When we read the accounts of Jesus and His disciples in the New Testament, it always seems like it’s the “religious” that are doing the most harm. It’s almost like you need to fear the “insiders” more than the “outsiders.” Jesus gave ample warning, “If they persecute Me, they will persecute you.” (Matthew 10:22, Luke 21:12, John 15:20). But in our zeal we need to be careful that we are not the ones doing the persecuting.

As we used to say in the Army, “Friendly fire ain’t so friendly.” 

My Story

Continuing with this line of thinking, I can also say “Social media ain’t so social.” I am shocked how “Christian” people feel the freedom to spew anger, hate, and bitterness. And over the smallest issues. Instead of dialog, we’ve chosen to judge the whole person’s character by “sound bites.” I’ve been the recipient of such harsh criticism for doing church in a home. Really? Are we going to go to war with a brother over that?

Now to be sure there are some things on social media that are way out there and some down right heresy. But does that give us the freedom to load both verbal barrels and open fire? I see a lot of that when we should seek to understand first, lovingly correct in private second, and try to bring people back to central truths by pointing them to the Bible.

I don’t want to fall into the trap of being angry at angry people. But I just see so much anger out there that something needs to be said. Let’s talk, discuss, dialogue and try to bring the truth in love as the first move instead of being uncharitable, spiteful, or even cruel. 

This is a a good place to point people to my free eBook: The Art of Discussion – A Laughable Look at a very Serious Subject

Our Action Plan

Now it’s time for application. Here’s some ideas;

  • Look back at your social media posts. Were you mean spirited in any of them? Do you need to apologize?
  • Look at the posts of those you are discipling. Is correction needed?
  • War game with those you are discipling “how to correct someone in love.”

As followers of Jesus, let’s ensure our actions and words reflect His love whether online or in person. Let’s strive to speak the truth in love, seek understanding first, and avoid becoming the very source of harm we aim to stand against, remembering that our ultimate goal is to glorify God by becoming like His Son.

Detractores de la religión – #108

¡Bienvenidos de nuevo! Hoy analizaremos los Evangelios de Mateo y Marcos para ver cómo respondió Jesús a los detractores de la religión.

Comencemos.

Mateo 16:1-4, Marcos 8:11-13

Entonces los fariseos y los saduceos vinieron y comenzaron a discutir con Jesús y a tentarlo, exigiéndole que les mostrara una señal del cielo. Jesús suspiró profundamente y dijo: “¿Por qué esta generación pide una señal? Al anochecer, dicen: ‘Buen tiempo habrá, porque el cielo está rojo’, y por la mañana: ‘Hoy habrá tormenta, porque el cielo está rojo y nublado’. Saben interpretar el aspecto del cielo, pero no las señales de los tiempos. Una generación malvada y adúltera pide una señal. De cierto les digo que a esta generación no se le dará otra señal que la de Jonás”. Y los dejó, volvió a la barca y cruzó a la otra orilla.

Mis Pensamientos

Jesús recibió muchas críticas de los líderes religiosos de la época. Constantemente lo acusaban y lo acosaban para que les diera señales que les confirmaran claramente que tenía autoridad para hacer y decir lo que hacía y decía. Estos ataques comenzaron bastante temprano en el ministerio de Jesús. Pero ¿por qué? ¿Por qué tanto odio hacia un simple carpintero convertido en rabino con un grupo de seguidores de la gente común?

Aquí hay algunas cosas que aprendemos de las Escrituras sobre estos líderes religiosos:

  • Tenían celos (Juan 7:48-49).
  • Tenían envidia (Mateo 27:18; Marcos 15:10).
  • Él era una amenaza para su autoridad (Juan 7:48-49).
  • Violaba sus tradiciones (Mateo 15:1-9).
  • Provocaba controversias sobre el sábado (Juan 5:18).
  • Afirmaba ser hijo divino (Juan 5:18). Obró milagros (Juan 11:53, Juan 12:10-11).
  • Estaban suprimiendo la verdad (Romanos 1:18).
  • Denunció su hipocresía (Mateo 23:13-36).
  • No entendían las Escrituras (1 Pedro 2:7, Mateo 21:42, Juan 5:39).
  • Temían perder su posición (Juan 11:48).
  • Se relacionó con pecadores (Mateo 9:11).
  • Pensaron que estaba aliado con Satanás (Mateo 12:24).

¡Menuda lista! Como hacedor de discípulos, ¿alguna vez te has encontrado con resistencia como las mencionadas anteriormente? Y aquí está la clave: ¿alguna vez has causado daño a un hermano o hermana con las armas mencionadas? Cuando leemos los relatos de Jesús y sus discípulos en el Nuevo Testamento, siempre parece que son los religiosos los que más daño causan. Es casi como si debiéramos temer más a los de adentro que a los de afuera. Jesús dio una amplia advertencia: «Si me persiguen a mí, os perseguirán a vosotros» (Mateo 10:22; Lucas 21:12; Juan 15:20). Pero en nuestro celo, debemos tener cuidado de no ser nosotros quienes persigamos.

Como solíamos decir en el ejército: «El fuego amigo no es tan amigo».

Mi Historia

Siguiendo con esta línea de pensamiento, también puedo decir: “Las redes sociales no son tan sociales”. Me sorprende cómo los cristianos se sienten libres de expresar ira, odio y amargura, incluso por los problemas más pequeños. En lugar de dialogar, hemos optado por juzgar el carácter integral de la persona por frases breves. He recibido duras críticas por tener la iglesia en casa. ¿En serio? ¿Vamos a entrar en guerra con un hermano por eso?

Claro que hay cosas en las redes sociales que son muy raras y otras que son una auténtica herejía. Pero ¿nos da eso la libertad de usar la palabra y abrir fuego? Veo mucho de eso cuando deberíamos buscar primero comprender, luego corregir con amor en privado y tratar de que la gente vuelva a las verdades fundamentales guiándoles hacia la Biblia.

No quiero caer en la trampa de enojarme con la gente enojada. Pero veo tanta ira que es necesario decir algo. Hablemos, discutamos, dialoguemos y tratemos de llevar la verdad en el amor como primer paso en lugar de ser poco caritativos, rencorosos o incluso crueles.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Ahora es momento de aplicar. Aquí tienes algunas ideas:

Revisa tus publicaciones en redes sociales. ¿Fuiste cruel en alguna? ¿Necesitas disculparte?

Mira las publicaciones de quienes estás discipulando. ¿Es necesaria la corrección?

Entrena a quienes estás discipulando: “¿Cómo corregir a alguien con amor?”.

Como seguidores de Jesús, asegurémonos de que nuestras acciones y palabras reflejen su amor, ya sea en línea o en persona. Esforcémonos por hablar la verdad con amor, busquemos primero la comprensión y evitemos convertirnos en la causa del daño que buscamos combatir, recordando que nuestro objetivo final es glorificar a Dios siendo como su Hijo.

Si ve un problema importante en la traducción, envíeme una corrección por correo electrónico a charleswood1@gmail.com

Loaves, Fish, and Refried Lessons – #107 

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospels of Matthew and Mark to see what motivated Jesus to feed thousands yet again.  

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document) 

Matthew 15:32–39, Mark 8:1–10

In those days the crowd once again became very large, and they had nothing to eat. Then Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “I have compassion for this crowd, because they have already been with Me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may faint along the way.” For some of them have come a great distance.” The disciples replied, “Where in this desolate place could we find enough bread to feed such a large crowd?” “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.” And He instructed the crowd to sit down on the ground. Taking the seven loaves and the fish, He gave thanks and blessed them and broke them. Then He gave them to His disciples to set before the people. And they distributed them to the crowd. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. A total of four thousand men were fed, in addition to women and children. After Jesus had dismissed the crowds, He got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan, the district of Dalmanutha.

My Thoughts 

This is the second time Jesus fed thousands of people. The first time the people’s motives were exposed as superficial and certainly not spiritually oriented. Jesus put His finger dead in their hearts with this saying;

“Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.”

OUCH! So they were there for the free fish and chips and to fill their gullets. But that’s not the end of the story. And during that first feeding…things went from bad to worse. He drops the “eat My flesh and drink My blood” bombshell on them and He disintegrates a mega-church to a small group in a single day.

So why is Jesus feeding the crowd again?! The people’s motives were probably the same. I can think of two reasons. The first is explicit, Jesus has compassion for them. Jesus’ motives were crystal clear on this, He loved the people. He loved them enough to feed them, heal them, and teach them (even if some of His teaching included hard truths). This was not a transactional relationship and is profoundly evident by His willingness to do it a second time. 

The second observation is not as evident and like many of Jesus’ discipleship techniques, it’s kind of hidden under the miraculous. Jesus uses repetition to teach His disciples crucial lessons. Later He would remind them of these two events and chide them for not getting it. (Matthew 16:5-12)

This is why I jokingly say there are three ways to learn;

  1. Repetition
  2. Bluntforce Trama
  3. And Repetitive Bluntforce Trama

So as we are becoming more like Jesus in our disciple-making, are we becoming more compassionate? Are we willing to teach the same lessons over and over again? These are two key ways we can emulate the Master.

My Story

Just the other day I was using these two elements in my disciple-making efforts. I asked Mike and Perla to join Deb and I as we engaged with some fellow laborers at a retreat. We sat down at the table with some folks and went into the “mentoring mode.” As I thumbed through my Bible, asked questions about how Jesus would define discipleship, and how He made disciples, the couple was watching me help others. I was multiplying spiritual food from the Word of God and they watched us feed these hungry souls. 

I could tell that one of the couples sitting around the table was discouraged because their ministry efforts weren’t panning out quite like they expected. Compassion was pulling at my pastoral heart strings. I shifted gears and gave appropriate verses to encourage them and then we prayed. 

This whole time I was modeling for Mike and Perla. They had heard almost everything I was dropping on the others before, so it was nothing new. But repetition was helping the concepts sink deeper into their hearts and minds. And I had the chance to show some compassion in the process.

Our Action Plan

Now it’s time for application. Here’s some ideas;

  • Are you and those you are discipling showing compassion and modeling it for others
  • Are you teaching sessions as a “One and Done” type of thing or are you “Recycling” to make it stick
  • Do a study on God’s repeated themes in the Scriptures (Warning: This is going to take you a while 🙂 )

Jesus’ second miracle of feeding thousands shows His enduring compassion and His knack for teaching through repetition, reminding us that discipleship is all about love and learning through repetition. Let’s follow His lead by showing compassion and recycling lessons until they stick.

Lecciones de Panes, Peces y Refritos – #107

¡Bienvenidos de nuevo! Hoy analizaremos los Evangelios de Mateo y Marcos para ver qué motivó a Jesús a alimentar a miles una vez más.

Comencemos.

Mateo 15:32-39, Marcos 8:1-10

En aquellos días, la multitud volvió a ser muy numerosa y no tenían qué comer. Entonces Jesús llamó a sus discípulos y les dijo: «Tengo compasión de esta multitud, porque ya llevan tres días conmigo y no tienen qué comer. No quiero despedirlos con hambre, no sea que desfallezcan en el camino». Algunos de ellos han venido desde muy lejos. Los discípulos respondieron: «¿Dónde, en este lugar desolado, podríamos encontrar suficiente pan para alimentar a tanta gente?». «¿Cuántos panes tienen?», preguntó Jesús. «Siete», respondieron, «y unos pocos pececillos». Y mandó a la multitud que se sentara en el suelo. Tomó los siete panes y los peces, dio gracias, los bendijo y los partió. Luego los dio a sus discípulos para que los sirvieran al pueblo. Y ellos los repartieron a la multitud. Todos comieron y se saciaron, y los discípulos recogieron siete cestas llenas de los pedazos que sobraron. Se alimentó a un total de cuatro mil hombres, además de mujeres y niños. Después de despedir a la multitud, Jesús subió a la barca y se dirigió a la región de Magadán, en el distrito de Dalmanuta.

Mis Pensamientos

Esta es la segunda vez que Jesús alimenta a miles de personas. La primera vez, se expuso que las motivaciones de la gente eran superficiales y, ciertamente, no espirituales. Jesús les clavó el dedo en el corazón con estas palabras:

“De cierto, de cierto os digo que me buscáis, no porque habéis visto señales, sino porque comisteis el pan y os saciasteis”.

¡Ay! Así que estaban allí por el pescado con patatas fritas gratis y para saciarse. Pero ese no es el final de la historia. Y durante esa primera alimentación… las cosas fueron de mal en peor. Les suelta la bomba de “comed mi carne y bebed mi sangre” y desintegra una megaiglesia en un pequeño grupo en un solo día.

Entonces, ¿por qué Jesús alimenta a la multitud otra vez? Las motivaciones de la gente probablemente eran las mismas. Se me ocurren dos razones. La primera es explícita: Jesús siente compasión por ellos. Sus motivaciones eran clarísimas: amaba a la gente. Los amó lo suficiente como para alimentarlos, sanarlos y enseñarles (aunque algunas de sus enseñanzas incluían verdades difíciles). Esta no era una relación transaccional y se evidencia profundamente en su disposición a repetirlo.

La segunda observación no es tan evidente y, como muchas de las técnicas de discipulado de Jesús, se esconde tras lo milagroso. Jesús usa la repetición para enseñar a sus discípulos lecciones cruciales. Más tarde, les recordaría estos dos eventos y los reprendería por no haberlos comprendido. (Mateo 16:5-12)

Por eso digo en broma que hay tres maneras de aprender:

Repetición

Trauma contundente

Y Trauma contundente repetitivo

Así que, a medida que nos asemejamos más a Jesús en nuestro discipulado, ¿nos volvemos más compasivos? ¿Estamos dispuestos a enseñar las mismas lecciones una y otra vez? Estas son dos maneras clave de emular al Maestro.

Mi Historia

Justo el otro día usaba estos dos elementos en mi labor de hacer discípulos. Les pedí a Mike y a Perla que se unieran a Deb y a mí mientras conversábamos con algunos compañeros en un retiro. Nos sentamos a la mesa con otras personas y entramos en modo mentoría. Mientras hojeaba mi Biblia, hacía preguntas sobre cómo Jesús definiría el discipulado y cómo hacía discípulos, la pareja me observaba ayudar a otros. Multiplicaba el alimento espiritual de la Palabra de Dios y ellos nos observaban alimentar a estas almas hambrientas.

Me di cuenta de que una de las parejas sentadas a la mesa estaba desanimada porque sus esfuerzos ministeriales no estaban dando los resultados que esperaban. La compasión me conmovía profundamente como pastor. Cambié de tema y les compartí versículos apropiados para animarlos, y luego oramos.

Durante todo este tiempo, les estaba dando un ejemplo a Mike y a Perla. Ya habían escuchado casi todo lo que les decía a los demás, así que no era nada nuevo. Pero la repetición ayudaba a que los conceptos calaran más profundamente en sus corazones y mentes. Y tuve la oportunidad de mostrar algo de compasión en el proceso.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Ahora es momento de aplicar. Aquí tienes algunas ideas:

¿Tú y quienes discipulas muestran compasión y la modelan para los demás?

¿Enseñas de una sola vez o reciclas para que perdure?

Estudia los temas recurrentes de Dios en las Escrituras (Advertencia: Esto te llevará un tiempo 🙂).

El segundo milagro de Jesús al alimentar a miles muestra su compasión inagotable y su habilidad para enseñar mediante la repetición, recordándonos que el discipulado se trata de amor y aprendizaje mediante la repetición. Sigamos su ejemplo mostrando compasión y reciclando lecciones hasta que perduren.

Si ve un problema importante en la traducción, envíeme una corrección por correo electrónico a charleswood1@gmail.com

Chapter 26 – Mountain Phase

Link to all Chapters – Text & Audio

“I will raise my eyes to the mountains; from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who watches over you will not slumber.”

 Psalm 121:1-3

High Highs & Low Lows

The crunch of boots against frozen earth echoed through the pre-dawn darkness as Wade’s team executed their airfield seizure. His breath formed small clouds in the bitter mountain air, a stark reminder of the challenges that lay ahead. The operation had gone smoothly – too smoothly, he thought, exchanging knowing glances with Metro. In Ranger School, easy beginnings often heralded the harshest trials.

The austere beauty of Camp Frank D. Merrill stretched before them, dwarfed by the looming heights of the Georgia mountains. Wade’s boots crunched through a carpet of fallen leaves and pine needles as he and Metro made their way to the assembly area on Mosby. An unusual stillness had settled over the gathered Rangers, the typical chaos of training replaced by an anticipatory quiet that seemed to pulse with its own energy.

The approach of the Ranger Instructors drew every eye. Their weathered faces told stories of countless seasons spent in these unforgiving mountaintops. The lead RI stepped forward, and Wade braced himself for the familiar bark of command. Instead, the instructor’s voice carried across the formation with an almost contemplative tone.

“Welcome to the mountain phase, Rangers.” His words held none of the typical drill instructor fury. “We do things differently here. We don’t need to smoke you – the mountains and weather will extract their pound of flesh for us.” He gestured toward a cluster of crude wooden structures. “Those are your quarters. Basic, but you’ll be begging for them when you hit the TVD. Each hut has a pot-belly stove. Master it, or the cold will be unforgiving.”

As the company dispersed, Wade’s heart nearly stopped. There, framed in a hut doorway, stood a ghost from his past – Jay, his friend who had recycled the mountain phase. Joy and concern warred in Wade’s chest at the sight of his friend’s familiar face.

“Jay!” The name escaped before Wade could stop himself. He quickly corrected, “I mean, Ranger Owens!” The slip felt like sandpaper on his tongue. Security protocols demanded they maintain their cover identities, even here.

Jay’s eyes widened in recognition. “Wade? I mean… Ranger Smith!” They both froze, acutely aware of their mistake.

Metro’s gaze darted between them, his expression a mixture of curiosity and suspicion. Wade could almost hear the gears turning in Metro’s head, filing away this interaction for future reference.

Inside the hut, Wade found himself surrounded by history written in permanent ink. Every surface bore the marks of Rangers who had come before – names, units, and dates scrawled wherever space allowed. His fingers traced over the faded writing:

Ranger Dugway, 1/75, 2-2358, “The Frozen Chosen”

Ranger Hathaway, 4/75, 6-2304, “Death from Above”

Ranger Huong, 3/75, “Pain is just weakness leaving the body.”

Even markings from before the Military Consolidation Act of 2362 remained, like whispers from the past:

Ranger Wood, 2/75, 9-2279, “The Last Hard Class”

The weight of tradition pressed down on Wade’s shoulders as he stowed his gear. These walls held decades of triumph and failure, of dreams realized and shattered. Metro appeared equally affected, his usual sharp wit temporarily silenced by the gravity of their surroundings.

An RI’s shadow darkened the doorway. “Listen up, Rangers.” His voice carried the weight of experience. “The next five days will test you in ways you can’t imagine. It’s not just about endurance anymore – it’s about mastering the climb. You’ll learn basic mountaineering skills here at Camp Merrill, then it’s on to Mount Yonah for advanced climbing techniques.” A grim smile crossed his weathered face. “Remember this: it’s not the fall that’s going to kill you. It’s that sudden stop at the bottom. We call it rock poisoning.”

As the RI’s footsteps faded, Metro turned to Wade, his eyes narrowing. “So, Smith,” he said, emphasizing the last name with subtle emphasis. “Looks like you’ve got a friend here. Care to share how you two know each other so well?”

Wade’s mind raced through possible responses, weighing the delicate balance between trust and operational security. The bond between Ranger candidates was sacred, but so were the protocols that kept them safe. He opted for a partial truth, letting sincerity color his voice. “We served together briefly before Ranger School. Didn’t expect to see him here.”

Metro nodded slowly, his expression suggesting he knew there was more to the story but was willing to let it rest – for now. Outside their window, the mountains loomed silent and indifferent, their creasts disappearing into the gathering clouds of late fall.

Mountaineering

The next morning dawned crisp and clear, sunlight filtering through the pines as Wade and his fellow Rangers gathered for their first day of mountaineering training. The instructors wasted no time with pleasantries, diving straight into the complexities of knot tying and rope bridge construction. Sleep-deprived fingers fumbled with unfamiliar patterns, the importance of each knot emphasized by the instructors’ stern reminders of what failure could cost.

“Recon for Jaws!” The unexpected command cut through the morning air. Confusion rippled through the group until understanding dawned – they were about to become intimately acquainted with the icy stream that cut through the lower mountaineering area. The shock of submersion sent electricity through Wade’s nerves, chasing away any lingering fatigue with brutal efficiency.

Shivering and alert, they faced their next challenge – the 60-foot cliff that would serve as their introduction to rappelling. Wade’s prosthetic hand gripped the rope as he approached the edge, the instructor’s earlier warning echoing in his mind: “It’s not the fall that’ll kill you, it’s the sudden stop at the bottom.”

The first lean back into empty space set his heart racing, trust in equipment and training warring with instinct. The Australian rappel came next, forcing them to face the ground as they descended – a technique that demanded not just skill but the courage to embrace the counter-intuitive. Wade found himself grinning despite the challenge, adrenaline singing through his veins as he mastered each new technique.

The buddy evacuation rappel proved the most demanding challenge yet – both physically and mentally. Wade found himself harnessed to Metro’s back, the combined weight of their bodies and gear straining against the rope as they descended awkwardly down the cliff face. Every movement required precise coordination; a single misstep could send them both spinning out of control.

Mount Yonah brought new challenges and moments of transcendent beauty. The 120-foot night rappel under a full moon transformed the ordinary into something almost mystical. Wade hung suspended between earth and sky, the moonlight painting the Georgia mountains in shades of silver and shadow. The rope hummed softly through his hands as he controlled his descent, each breath visible in the cold mountain air. For a brief moment, the weight of his mission, his false identity, and even his separation from Kristin seemed to fall away, leaving only the pure focus of the present moment.

The primitive nature of their climbing gear added an extra edge to every evolution. Modern safety systems had been deliberately excluded from the training, forcing them to rely on basic equipment and technique. When a Marine from another squad suffered severe “rock rash” after his belay man failed to check his descent quickly enough, the harsh scraping sound and his cry of pain served as a visceral reminder of the consequences of complacency.

On their final night at Mount Yonah, the Ranger Chaplain held a service that offered a welcome respite from the physical demands of training. The chaplain’s voice carried across the gathering of exhausted Rangers, his words finding purchase in their weary spirits as he shared the story of the paralytic and his four faithful friends.

“Now, these guys,” the chaplain began, a hint of humor in his voice, “they weren’t afraid of a little property damage to accomplish the mission – tearing through that roof to get their friend to Jesus!” The tired Rangers chuckled, finding familiar echoes of their own determination in the ancient tale.

The chaplain’s expression grew more thoughtful. “But here’s what really strikes me about this story, Rangers. Before Jesus dealt with the man’s obvious physical need, He addressed something deeper – his spiritual condition. As you push your bodies to the limit here, don’t neglect what’s happening in your spirits.”

Wade found his eyes drawn to Jay during the service, remembering their shared experiences aboard the Skravak ship. They had seen horrors that would haunt them forever, yet here they were, still pushing forward, still fighting. The chaplain’s words about spiritual healing resonated deeply with Wade’s own journey over the past two years.

The next morning brought a sharp wind and the knowledge that their time at Mount Yonah was ending. As the Rangers broke camp and prepared for their descent, Wade, Jay, and Metro exchanged fist bumps – a gesture that carried more weight than words could express. Their shared experiences had forged a bond that transcended their cover identities, even if they couldn’t speak of it openly.

The Back Story

The terrain model took shape under Wade and Jay’s careful hands, a miniature representation of Hawk Mountain emerging from carefully placed rocks and twigs. The task offered a rare opportunity for conversation, though both men kept their voices low and their eyes on their work.

“Still can’t believe what happened at New Quantico,” Wade murmured, his prosthetic hand placing a small marker with precise care. “Feels like a lifetime ago, but it’s only been a few weeks.”

Jay nodded, his focus seemingly on the model but his mind clearly elsewhere. “I heard about it while I was still en route to Ranger School. Security team boarded our transport after refueling on Mars. Next thing I know, I’m ‘Frederick Owens,’ newly promoted sergeant, continuing on my way here.” He paused, adding quietly, “They said I’d get further instructions after graduation… if I graduate.”

Wade looked up from the terrain model, studying his friend’s face. “What do you mean, ‘if’? You seem different this time around – stronger, more focused.”

Jay’s hands stilled over the model. “I failed two patrols in my last class,” he admitted, his voice carrying the weight of past disappointment. “That’s why they recycled me in the mountain phase. I was trying too hard to be everyone’s friend, to be the nice guy. My fellow Rangers didn’t respond to that approach, and I paid the price for it.”

“Sounds rough,” Wade said softly, understanding flooding his features. “Leadership isn’t always about being liked.”

“That’s exactly it.” Jay’s fingers traced the contours of their miniature mountain. “I’ve been wrestling with this tension between being a Christian and being a warrior-leader. How do you love your neighbor while pushing them beyond their limits? How do you balance compassion with the aggression this job demands?”

Wade considered this, remembering the chaos of New Quantico. “Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is push people to be their best,” he offered. “Even when they hate you for it in the moment.”

Their conversation was interrupted by Metro’s approach. His footsteps faltered as he neared the model, his eyes widening with sudden recognition. “Wait a minute… I know who you are,” he breathed, glancing between Wade and Jay. “You’re two of the Marines who broke open the Skravak conspiracy!”

The air seemed to freeze between them. Wade straightened slowly, his posture shifting almost imperceptibly into a more guarded stance. “That’s right,” he confirmed quietly. “But we’d appreciate it if you could keep that information to yourself, Metro.”

Metro nodded eagerly, though his excitement was visible. “Of course, of course. But… the news feeds were buzzing about what you did for weeks! The infiltration, the rescued prisoners…”

“The feeds don’t tell the whole story,” Jay cut in, his voice carrying an edge that made Metro’s enthusiasm fade. “What we saw on that ship…” He shuddered, memories flickering behind his eyes.

“We found hundreds of humans in stasis,” Wade explained, his voice barely above a whisper. “Men, women, children… all being kept as food. The stench of that place, the darkness…” He shook his head, unable to continue.

Metro’s face had lost its color. “I knew it was bad, but… I had no idea.”

“That’s why what we’re doing here matters so much,” Wade said, gesturing to the terrain model. “We need every edge we can get to end this war. And that’s why our involvement needs to stay quiet. We can’t afford any distractions.”

Metro straightened, newfound respect evident in his bearing. “You have my word. But… thank you. For what you did, and what you’re still doing.”

The conversation shifted back to the mission at hand, but something had changed between the three Rangers. A deeper understanding had been forged, rooted in shared purpose and mutual respect.

As they finished the terrain model, Ranger Metropax gathered the section for the operations order. The raid on the observation post atop Hawk Mountain would be their first test as a unit. Weather reports warned of an incoming storm system, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging mission.

“This is going to be a hard one to start with,” Metro addressed the patrol, his voice steady despite the gravity of the task ahead. “But I’m confident if we all do our job and stay motivated, we’ll succeed. We move out at 1800 hours. Hit time is 02.”

The Ascent

Dusk painted the mountains in deepening shades of purple as the Rangers assembled for movement. The bank of dark clouds rolling in from the west promised more than just rain – it carried the threat of a mountain storm that could turn their already challenging mission into a battle for survival.

Wade adjusted his ruck one final time, the weight settling against his shoulders like an old enemy. His arm ached where the prosthetic hand met flesh, the cold already seeping into the connection point. He pushed the discomfort aside, focusing instead on the mission ahead. Beside him, Jay moved with a newfound confidence that spoke of lessons learned through failure and redemption.

The silence of their initial movement was broken only by the soft crunch of boots on rocky ground and the occasional muted clink of equipment. As they began their ascent of the Tennessee Valley Divide (TVD), the first scattered raindrops struck their faces – harbingers of the misery to come.

Within an hour, the weather transformed their world into a cold, wet torture. The rain, driven by gusting winds, seemed to find every gap in their wet weather gear. The steep terrain became treacherous, each step requiring careful placement to avoid a potentially fatal slip. What had started as a tactical movement was rapidly becoming a test of raw endurance and will.

Wade found his thoughts turning to Kristin as he pushed through the pain. The ache in his shoulder had become a constant companion, intensifying with every step. The cold seemed to have a particular hatred for his prosthetic, the connection point feeling like ice against his flesh. Yet in this struggle, he found a strange comfort – every step up this mountain was a step toward proving himself worthy of the sacrifice she had unknowingly made.

Jay moved through the darkness with purpose, his movements exhibiting none of the hesitation that had marked his previous attempt at the mountain phase. His voice, when he spoke to check on his team members, carried the quiet authority of someone who had finally found the balance between leadership and compassion.

Metro called a halt as they reached what felt like the halfway point, though in the darkness and driving sleet, distance had become an abstract concept. The Rangers huddled against the mountainside, checking maps and trying to conserve what little warmth remained in their bodies. The Ranger Instructors stood like sentinels in the storm, their stoic endurance a silent challenge to the struggling students.

The sleet intensified, the icy particles stinging exposed skin like tiny needles. Wade watched his breath form ghost-like clouds in the beam of his red-lens flashlight as he checked his map. The op-order replaying in his head, its words burned into his memory: raid, capture, report. Simple objectives made desperately complicated by terrain and weather.

Pressing On

The final days of mountain phase tested them in ways none had expected. The weather never improved, seeming instead to find new ways to make them miserable. Sleep deprivation played tricks with their minds – shadows became enemy patrols, rocks transformed into living creatures, and sometimes took on the eerie shapes of the Skravaks themselves. Yet through it all, Wade, Jay, and Metro found strength in their shared struggle and unwavering faith.

Their bodies shed weight at an alarming rate, uniforms hanging loose where they had once been tight. The constant physical exertion combined with minimal food created a hunger that became another test of will. Yet somehow, the hardship forged stronger bonds between them. They learned to read each other’s needs without words, to offer support before it was requested.

When word finally came of their successful completion of the mountain phase, the three Rangers shared a moment of quiet triumph. There was no energy for celebration – their bodies and minds were too depleted for anything more than grateful acknowledgment. They had survived the mountains, but they all knew that another challenge awaited them in the swamps to the south.

As they prepared for movement to the Florida phase, Wade caught Jay’s eye across the assembly area. They shared a look that contained volumes – pride in their accomplishment, recognition of how far they’d come, and determination for what lay ahead. Metro joined them, and no words were needed as they gathered their gear. They had conquered the mountains together, and the swamps, however daunting, would face the same unified front.

The mountains had changed them, stripping away pretense and revealing the core of who they were as Rangers and as men. As their transport arrived to carry them south, Wade took one last look at the Georgia mountaintops. They had entered the mountain phase as individuals seeking to prove themselves. They would leave it as brothers, forged in the crucible of cold, wet, and endless vertical challenges.

The swamps awaited, bringing their own unique brand of misery. But for now, they had earned the right to move to the next phase, and that knowledge would carry them through whatever hardship lay ahead.

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Chapter 24 – Dream or Nightmare

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“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful…”

Hebrews 10:23

Confirmation 

The sterile corridors of the morgue echoed with Kristen’s determined footsteps. This was her third visit in as many weeks, each time armed with the same unshakable conviction: Wade was alive.

As she approached the desk, the clerk’s face softened with recognition and pity. “Dr. Kitzler, I’m sorry, but nothing’s changed. Corporal Kovacs’ remains aren’t here.”

Kristen nodded, her expression a mask of professional detachment. “I understand. Thank you.”

Outside, she leaned against the cool stone of the building, letting out a shaky breath. The absence of Wade’s body only strengthened her belief. She closed her eyes, remembering their last moment together, Wade’s promise ringing in her ears: “Always.”

With renewed determination, Kristen straightened her shoulders and headed back to the hospital. The war raged on, and she had a job to do. But beneath her calm exterior, a fierce hope burned.

In quiet moments between patients, Kristen found herself whispering prayers. “Lord, keep him safe. Bring him back to me.”

As weeks turned to months, doubt tried to creep in. But Kristen held fast to her faith and the memories that sustained her. She threw herself into her work, comforting those who had seen so much carnage and mending broken minds and hearts, all while holding space in her own heart for the man she knew would return.

“Always,” she whispered each night before sleep claimed her. It was a promise, a prayer, and a declaration of unwavering love. Whatever battles Wade was fighting, whatever secrets kept them apart, Kristen knew one thing with absolute certainty: their story was far from over.

Deceptive Calm

The aroma of perfectly grilled steak wafted through the air as Wade savored each bite, still marveling at the stark contrast between his current surroundings and the rustic boot camp on Carthis 7. The administrative staff at Ranger School had welcomed him with unexpected warmth, their efficiency tinged with a genuine friendliness that felt almost surreal after weeks of secrecy and tension. He knew this special treatment wouldn’t last long.

As he waited for his paperwork to be processed, Wade’s gaze drifted to the window, taking in the lush greenery that stretched as far as the eye could see. Earth had changed dramatically in the century and a half since the devastating Skravak attack. The scorched-earth tactics employed by the aliens had razed cities to the ground, slashing the global population from 8 billion to a mere 1 billion souls, now scattered primarily across rural landscapes.

The irony wasn’t lost on Wade. Humanity had been forcibly regressed to a lifestyle reminiscent of the late 1800s, with only pockets of advanced technology persisting in crucial areas like agriculture, transportation, and communication. The collective trauma of the AI betrayal that had facilitated the alien invasion left most Earthers deeply mistrustful of complex computer systems.

Wade chuckled to himself, realizing how strange Earth seemed compared to the more technologically advanced colonies. The planet’s inhabitants clung to their “backward” ways with fierce pride, their traditions a bulwark against the terrors of the past.

Yet, from this devastation had sprung an unexpected boon. Free from centuries of industrial pollutants and harmful agricultural practices, Earth’s soil had rejuvenated. The planet now stood as one of the most fertile in the entire confederacy, its economy revolving primarily around agriculture and the export of organic materials to resource-hungry colonies.

As Wade shouldered his duffle bag and made his way to the barracks, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. All the changes, including his new identity, felt like he had stepped back in time. An epoch he had read about in high school history books.

As Wade shouldered his duffle bag and made his way to the barracks, he was immediately paired with Ranger Metropax, a lanky, tall, awkward man with a sheepish half-smile. “Smith,” Metropax nodded, extending his hand. “Looks like we’re ranger buddies.” Wade returned the firm handshake, recognizing the look and demeanor of a Marine Lieutenant. Rangers wore no rank in training and were all considered peers, but the chasm between officer and enlisted was always apparent.

The barracks were a far cry from the sterile environments of military spaceships. The scent of polished wood and fresh linens filled the air as Wade and Metropax claimed adjacent bunks, tossing their duffels down in unison. Around them, other Ranger pairs were settling in, their faces a mix of excitement and apprehension.

The rhythmic sound of footsteps drew everyone’s attention. A barrel-chested Ranger Instructor strolled casually down the center aisle, his posture relaxed yet commanding. He sported a form-fitting black t-shirt, emblazoned with a large gold Ranger tab on the front and his white name tag proudly displayed above it. When he spoke, his voice was calm and almost friendly, belying the intensity of the training to come.

“Welcome, Rangers,” he announced, his gaze sweeping over the assembled Ranger students. “Get a good night’s sleep. We’ll get started at 07 hundred hours in the morning.”

As the instructor turned and exited the barracks, Metropax leaned over to Wade. “You’ve been through this before? You’re a Bat Boy, right, I mean.” Metropax was referring to enlisted rangers headed to an assignment in one of the Ranger Battalions. Wade nodded slightly, and in a hushed tone suppressing a chuckle, said, “07 hundred, ha. Don’t you believe it for a second!”

As they began unpacking their gear, Wade’s thoughts drifted to Kristen. He wondered what she was doing, if she was safe, if she still believed in him. The weight of the promise reassuring him – “This is the woman you’re going to marry” – settled in his heart and mind as a source of strength.

Tomorrow would bring challenges, that much was certain. Wade pulled the sheets tight and folded six inches over the blanket at the head, perfectly made to military standards. He carefully lay on top of the blanket and sheets, fully dressed and ready to move on a moment’s notice. He knew better than to get between the sheets. There would be no time to get dressed, let alone make his bed to pass inspection. As Wade lay on his bunk, listening to the quiet rustling of his fellow Rangers settling in for the night, he warned Metropax and those closest to him to do as he had done. The Lieutenant was eager to follow Wade’s lead. A few others took his advice. But most bunked up like they were at boy scout camp. Confident he was ready for the morning’s festivities, he felt a sense of purpose ignite within him. This was his path forward – to become a Ranger, to serve, and ultimately, to find his way back to Kristen.

With a silent prayer of gratitude and a renewed commitment to his goals, Wade pulled his patrol cap over his face and closed his eyes. Sleep would be a precious commodity from here on out.

The Storm Breaks

At 03 hundred, Wade and Metropax’s eyes snapped open simultaneously as a cacophony of metal against metal shattered the pre-dawn silence. They were on their feet before the trash can finished its thunderous journey down the center aisle. This was the start of what would be the most grueling week of many Rangers’ lives.

Chaos erupted as Ranger Instructors (RIs) burst into the barracks, their voices a tempest of commands and reprimands. “Get out! Get on the street now!” they bellowed, leaving no room for hesitation or questions.

“Stay close Metro.” Wade muttered as they moved through the chaos. The buddy system was already proving its worth – while other Rangers stumbled alone in confusion, Wade and Metropax quickly navigated their way through the maelstrom and found their positions in formation.

There was no time for niceties. Students were shoved, pushed, and herded out onto the street, many still in various states of undress. Some stood at attention with nothing on but their underwear. The formation that assembled outside was a far cry from military precision – a motley crew of disheveled, disoriented individuals struggling to find their assigned positions.

At the head of this chaotic assembly stood a lone RI, his face a mask of disgust as he berated the student company commander. “What in the name of all that’s holy is this?!” he roared, gesturing at the disarray before him. “You call this a formation? I’ve seen better organization on a kindergarten playground!”

As if summoned by the commotion, more RIs materialized, descending upon the platoon and squad leaders like wolves on wounded prey. Their voices joined the cacophony, a symphony of criticism and demands for perfection.

Within moments, it seemed as though the entire cadre of RIs had engulfed the formation. They moved through the ranks like sharks scenting blood in the water, their keen eyes missing nothing. Every uniform infraction, every flicker of defiance or confusion in a Ranger’s eyes became grounds for punishment.

“Drop and give me twenty!” became the refrain of the morning, punctuated by the rhythmic counting of push-ups and the labored breathing of Rangers struggling through flutter kicks.

A short, stocky RI materialized before them, eyes scanning the ranger buddies with predatory intensity. “Well, well… Smith and Metropax. The dynamic duo.” His coffee-scented breath washed over them as he searched for deficiencies. Finding none, he moved on, but not before growling, “Don’t get comfortable, studs. There’s plenty of time to royally mess up.”

Wade blinked and the RI was on to the next victim. He knew it was only a matter of time before the RIs found something to harass him for. This was merely the opening salvo of “City Week,” the crucible designed to separate the wheat from the chaff.

For the next seven days, the concept of “civilization” would be twisted into an exquisite form of torment. It was boot camp on steroids – a gauntlet designed with one primary purpose: to make Ranger students quit.

Wade steeled himself for what was to come. Right now, he stood in the eye of the storm because he was prepared. But he knew the winds would eventually circle around for him. You can’t prepare for everything. He knew the statistics – only 40% would survive this first week. But he also knew something else, something that burned in his chest with an intensity that matched the rising sun.

He had a promise to trust and a promise to keep. 

The storm of City Week had broken, and Wade Kovacs – now Ranger Smith – stood ready to weather it, come what may. His ranger buddy was a quick study and followed Wade’s cue, and together they made a good team. Metropax was smart. Not just book smart either. He had a savvy about him that Wade knew he would benefit from in time.

Survival of the Fittest

“Rangers, on the command of fall out, get back in the barracks and prepare for inspection! You have 30 seconds to be standing by your bunk! Fall out!” The command was given, and as one, the students surged towards the barracks. Inside, chaos erupted as dozens of students were cornered by RIs, forced to sign negative spot reports for infractions both real and imagined.

“Ranger Smith!” An RI’s voice cut through the commotion. “Your bunk has a thread hanging from it! Sign here.” Wade knew it was just a matter of time. The RI wrote on the top of the card, “Ranger James Smith, Roster number 47.” Wade felt an urge to correct the Sergeant but immediately recognized that would be a big mistake in two ways. First, it was his new name and second, you never correct an RI.

Ranger Smith gritted his teeth but complied, knowing each signature was a strike against his chances of completing the course. 

Back in formation, the group stood ready for PT. The air was thick with anticipation and the acrid smell of nervous sweat. As calisthenics began, Ranger Smith pushed through the burn in his muscles; he’d been here before. Reminiscent of boot camp. 

The confidence course loomed ahead, a gauntlet of twelve obstacles designed to break body and spirit. Wade and Metropax tackled each obstacle in tandem. At the Worm Pit, each one in adjacent lanes next to each other, they prepared to negotiate the obstacle. The Worm Pit was a slimy mix of mud, sawdust, and some unidentified substance that made it reek to high heaven. 

Wade took a deep breath, steeling himself before plunging in. The stench was overwhelming, threatening to gag him as he inched forward. The back pocket of his trousers caught on the barbed wire, and for a heart-stopping moment, he thought he might be stuck.

“Move it, Smith! And get your fourth point of contact out of the air! You want to get your butt shot off?” an RI bellowed. “Or do you have parts to spare?” The RI obviously making a snide remark referencing his prosthetic.

Gritting his teeth, Ranger Smith wrenched his pants free and pressed on. He emerged on the other side, gasping and covered in muck, only to hear the dreaded command:

“Not good enough! Do it again!”

Three more times, Rangers Smith and Metropax navigated the Worm Pit before finally satisfying the RI’s exacting standards. Wade was embarrassed that he had let his ranger buddy down, but Metropax took it all in stride. Each obstacle that followed brought its own unique brand of misery, but both Rangers tackled them all with grim determination.

The five-mile run that followed was a study in controlled agony. Ranger Smith focused on the back of the runner in front of him, knowing that falling more than two steps behind meant failure. His lungs burned, his legs screamed for relief, but he pushed on, the mantra “Never Quit!” echoing with each footfall. Both Wade and Metropax, side by side, matched stride for stride, subtly adjusting their pace to stay together while maintaining formation standards. 

Beside him, a fellow student stumbled, falling out of formation. “Get on the truck, Ranger!” an RI screamed. The “No Go Truck” drove slowly behind the formation, loading student after student who could not keep up the grueling pace. Ranger Smith spared a moment of sympathy for his fallen comrade but kept his eyes forward. There would be time for camaraderie later; now was the time for survival.

Breakfast in the mess hall was a cruel joke. Platters of gourmet food tantalized the famished students, but there was no time to savor it. RIs stalked the aisles, their voices a constant barrage of urgency and intimidation.

“Hurry up, Studs! Woof it down! We got some bugs that need killin’ and your chow is slowin’ me down!”

Ranger Smith shoveled food into his mouth mechanically, barely tasting it. Across the table, he saw a student attempt to pocket a roll. The RI’s response was swift and merciless.

“Thinking of saving that for later, sunshine? Get down and give me fifty push-ups! Sign this major unsat spot report. Now get out of my sight!”

The day continued in a brutal parade of challenges. Marine Martial Arts training left them battered and bruised. Classes on antique weapons and explosives tested their mental acuity when their bodies screamed for rest. The principles of patrolling, drilled into their heads with relentless repetition, were adhered to with almost religious fervor.

As 2100 hours approached, Ranger Smith felt a glimmer of relief. Showers and bed beckoned, promising a brief respite from the day’s torments. But even as he stood under the lukewarm spray, scrubbing away layers of grime and sweat, he knew tomorrow would bring more of the same.

Lying in his bunk that night, every muscle aching, Wade closed his eyes and saw Kristen’s face. He remembered their last moments together, the feel of her in his arms, the warmth of her smile. It seemed a lifetime ago, but the memory gave him strength.

He prayed quietly to himself, “Father, you have a plan and I have Your promise. I will stay the course. Give me strength and protect me from all that could go wrong. I believe You’re right here with me every step of the way. And Lord…please be with Kristen and give her faith in You and in me.” Sleep claimed Wade as “Ranger Smith” could be set aside until tomorrow.

Rugged Resilience

As Ranger Smith acclimated to Ranger School’s brutal routine, he marveled at its anachronistic nature. Despite being 350 years in the future, the Marine Corps had steadfastly preserved the training methods of the late 20th century. This dedication to tradition was both a point of pride and a constant challenge.

The school’s history resonated through every aspect of training. Founded in 1951 during the Korean War, it had always emphasized leadership development over pure tactical proficiency. This philosophy endured, with instructors pushing students to their limits to forge resilient leaders.

During patrolling tactics classes, Smith found himself transported to another era. The instructors used terminology that seemed pulled directly from 1980s field manuals. Despite centuries of technological advancement, the fundamentals of small-unit tactics remained surprisingly relevant.

One morning, Wade had finished personal hygiene with ten precious minutes before formation. Rather than being idle, he spotted a manual push mower against the barracks and began trimming scattered grass between pine needles and bare ground.

An RI approached, barking, “Ranger! What on earth are you doing?”

Wade’s mind scrambled. “Mowing the grass, Sergeant!”

“Well, there’s some grass that needs attention, but mostly you’re mowing dirt. Sign here, Ranger.”

Wade’s face fell as he withdrew his antiquated government-issue pen, expecting the worst. To his surprise, it was a major positive spot report, nullifying his previous negative.

“Good initiative, Ranger,” the RI growled. “Keep it up, Smith!”

Wade replaced the mower and double-timed to formation.

At chow, another lavish meal awaited them. They salivated at the prospect of even a small taste before being rushed out. Their last meal using tables and chairs was behind them.

The Ranger First Sergeant waited outside the D-FAC, bellowing, “Since you Rangers think you’re on a cruise ship taking your sweet time, rules have changed! File in the front, out the back. Whatever you eat on the way is yours, but you will not sit, stop, or even blink in my mess hall! Is that clear?”

Rangers filed past servers, grabbing food with their hands – no time for utensils. They gorged themselves, cramming their cheeks full before reaching the exit. Wade managed a decent amount, with just a banana remaining. Peeling it while holding a tray proved challenging, but he stuffed the whole thing in his mouth at the cleaning station.

Still struggling to swallow, he faced an RI at the exit. “What’s in your mouth, Ranger?”

Wade could only mumble, “Nana?”

“Drop and give me fifty, Ranger Smith!” 

Wade and Metropax immediately dropped into the prone and started knocking out push-ups. 

The RI continued, “And I’ve got something for you to sign when you finish choking that down.”

Once again, Wade was back in the negative and was the reason for his buddy’s pain. 

As they finished their push-ups, Wade signed the spot report and they were off toward the barracks at a double time.

“Sorry about that Metro… my bad,” Wade growled apologetically.

“Don’t even think about it, Smith. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have made it past the first day. Nothing but a thing… and for all practical purposes, ‘City Week’ is done. On to Camp Darby,” Metropax said energetically.

“For the first phase of patrolling!” Wade finished. Both of them headed into the barracks and checked their gear one final time.

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From the Bottom of My Heart? – #104

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospels of Matthew and Mark to see some of Jesus’ views of the heart. 

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document) 

Matthew 15:10–20, Mark 7:14–23

Jesus called the crowd to Him and said, “All of you, listen to Me and understand: A man is not defiled by what enters his mouth, but by what comes out of it.” If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 

After Jesus had left the crowd and gone into the house, His disciples inquired about the parable. They said, “Are You aware that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?” But Jesus replied, “Every plant that My heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by its roots. Disregard them! They are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.”

Peter said to Him, “Explain this parable to us.” Jesus asked “Are you still so dull? Do you still not understand? Do you not yet realize that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then is eliminated? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these things defile a man. Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, because it does not enter his heart, but it goes into the stomach and then is eliminated.” (Thus all foods are clean.) He continued: “What comes out of a man, that is what defiles him. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man, but eating with unwashed hands does not defile him.”

My Thoughts 

I’m not sure, after reading Jesus, I want to use the phrase, “From the bottom of my heart” as a way to express my sincere love. Jesus addressed the heart many times in His teaching. It usually exposes the “true you.” I don’t know about you but when I look inside, I’m shocked at my innards. I would have to agree with the prophet Jeremiah;

“The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9 NASB)

The next verse is even more scary;

“I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give to each man according to his ways, according to the results of his deeds.” (Jeremiah 17:10 NASB)

But thank God, He’s in the business of changing hearts!

“Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26 NASB)

“I will give them a heart to know Me, for I am the LORD; and they will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with their whole heart.”  (Jeremiah 31:33 NASB)

“being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” (2 Corinthians 3:3 NASB)

Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.'” (John 7:37-38 NASB)

As disciple-makers, we acknowledge our sinfulness from the depths of our hearts, yet we also rejoice and share the good news that the Great Heart Surgeon is at work in those who seek His help.

My Story

After 45 years of professing Christ as Lord and Savior I’ve become a pretty good person…on the outside. In recent years I’ve become painfully aware that the Christian camouflage I wear on the exterior is not enough to “walk in a worthy manner” before the Lord. (Colossians 1:10) As Jesus clearly states, God sees it all, outside and INSIDE!

I’ve taken several steps to correct my “stinking thinking.” I’ve memorized key passages like;

We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5)

And

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

I’ve read a couple of very helpful books that were very helpful;

A Deeper Walk: A Proven Path for Developing a More Vibrant Faith

By: Marcus Warner

Winning the War in Your Mind: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

By: Craig Groeschel 

But the most significant things I’ve done is to pray and ask for God’s help and to intentionally work on this area of life. By His grace I’ve seen some transformation but am committed to staying vigilant in the heart. 

Our Action Plan

Now it’s time for application. Here’s some ideas;

  • Answer this question from Scripture: “Can God hear our thoughts?”
  • Do a Bible study with those you are discipling on what Jesus says about the heart.
  • Wear a Heart Monitor – Intentionally keep track of your thoughts throughout the day and identify those that honor God and those that do not.

Jesus’ teachings on the heart emphasize the importance of inner transformation and aligning our thoughts with God’s will. He reminds us that true discipleship involves not just outward actions, but a genuine change of heart, requiring constant vigilance and reliance on God’s Word and grace to cultivate pure thoughts and intentions.

¿Desde lo más profundo de mi corazón? – 104

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente! Hoy, analizaremos los Evangelios de Mateo y Marcos para ver algunas de las opiniones de Jesús sobre el corazón.

Comencemos.

Mateo 15:10-20, Marcos 7:14-23

Jesús llamó a la multitud y les dijo: «Escúchenme todos y entiendan: el hombre no se contamina por lo que entra en su boca, sino por lo que sale de ella. Si alguno tiene oídos para oír, que oiga».

Después de que Jesús dejó a la multitud y entró en la casa, sus discípulos le preguntaron sobre la parábola. Dijeron: «¿Saben que los fariseos se ofendieron al oír esto?». Pero Jesús respondió: «Toda planta que mi Padre celestial no haya plantado será arrancada de raíz. No les hagan caso, son guías ciegos. Si un ciego guía a otro ciego, ambos caerán en un hoyo».

Pedro le dijo: «Explícanos esta parábola». Jesús les preguntó: «¿Todavía son tan torpes? ¿Todavía no entienden? ¿Todavía no se dan cuenta de que todo lo que entra por la boca va al estómago y luego se elimina? Pero lo que sale de la boca, del corazón sale; y eso es lo que contamina al hombre. Nada de lo que entra en el hombre desde fuera puede contaminarlo, porque no entra en el corazón, sino que va al estómago y luego es expulsado. (Así que todos los alimentos son limpios.) Y continuó: “Lo que sale del hombre, eso es lo que lo contamina. Porque del corazón salen los malos pensamientos, los homicidios, los adulterios, la inmoralidad sexual, los robos, los falsos testimonios, la avaricia, la maldad, el engaño, la lujuria, la envidia, la calumnia, la arrogancia y la insensatez. Todos estos males salen de dentro, y eso es lo que contamina al hombre, pero comer con las manos sin lavar no lo contamina”.

Mis Pensamientos

No estoy seguro de que, después de leer a Jesús, quiera usar la frase “desde lo más profundo de mi corazón” como una forma de expresar mi amor sincero. Jesús se dirigió al corazón muchas veces en sus enseñanzas. Por lo general, expone el “verdadero yo”. No sé ustedes, pero cuando miro hacia dentro, me quedo impactado por mis entrañas. Tendría que estar de acuerdo con el profeta Jeremías:

“El corazón es más engañoso que todo lo demás y es perverso; ¿quién lo entenderá?” (Jeremías 17:9 NVI)

El siguiente versículo es aún más aterrador:

“Yo, el Señor, escudriño el corazón, pruebo la mente, para dar a cada uno según su camino, según el resultado de sus obras” (Jeremías 17:10 NVI)

Pero gracias a Dios, ¡Él se dedica a cambiar corazones!

“Además, les daré un corazón nuevo y pondré un espíritu nuevo dentro de ustedes; quitaré de su carne el corazón de piedra y les daré un corazón de carne.” (Ezequiel 36:26 NVI)

“Les daré un corazón para que me conozcan, porque yo soy el Señor; y ellos serán mi pueblo y yo seré su Dios, porque volverán a mí con todo su corazón.” (Jeremías 31:33 NVI)

“Siendo manifiesto que ustedes son una carta de Cristo, escrita no con tinta, sino con el Espíritu de Dios vivo; no en tablas de piedra, sino en tablas de corazones humanos.” (2 Corintios 3:3 NVI)

En el último y gran día de la fiesta, Jesús se puso en pie y alzó la voz, diciendo: «Si alguno tiene sed, venga a mí y beba. El que cree en mí, como dice la Escritura: De su interior correrán ríos de agua viva». (Juan 7:37-38 NVI)

Como hacedores de discípulos, reconocemos nuestra pecaminosidad desde lo más profundo de nuestro corazón, pero también nos regocijamos y compartimos la buena noticia de que el Gran Cirujano del Corazón está obrando en aquellos que buscan Su ayuda.

Mi Historia

Después de 45 años de profesar a Cristo como Señor y Salvador, me he convertido en una persona bastante buena… por fuera. En los últimos años me he dado cuenta dolorosamente de que el camuflaje cristiano que llevo por fuera no es suficiente para “andar como es digno” delante del Señor. (Colosenses 1:10) Como Jesús afirma claramente, Dios lo ve todo, ¡por fuera y por dentro!

He tomado varias medidas para corregir mi “pensamiento apestoso”. He memorizado pasajes clave como:

Destruimos especulaciones y toda altivez que se levanta contra el conocimiento de Dios, y llevamos cautivo todo pensamiento a la obediencia a Cristo (2 Corintios 10:5)

Y

Por lo demás, hermanos, todo lo que es verdadero, todo lo honesto, todo lo justo, todo lo puro, todo lo amable, todo lo que es de buen nombre; si hay virtud alguna, si algo digno de alabanza, en esto pensad. (Filipenses 4:8)

He leído un par de libros que me resultaron muy útiles:

A Deeper Walk: A Proven Path for Developing a More Vibrant Faith

Por: Marcus Warner

Winning the War in Your Mind: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

Por: Craig Groeschel

Pero lo más importante que he hecho es orar y pedirle ayuda a Dios y trabajar intencionalmente en esta área de mi vida. Por Su gracia he visto cierta transformación, pero estoy comprometido a permanecer vigilante en el corazón.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Ahora es el momento de ponerlo en práctica. Aquí hay algunas ideas:

Responda a esta pregunta de las Escrituras: “¿Puede Dios escuchar nuestros pensamientos?”

Realice un estudio bíblico con aquellos a quienes está discipulando sobre lo que Jesús dice acerca del corazón.

Use un monitor cardíaco: lleve un registro intencional de sus pensamientos a lo largo del día e identifique aquellos que honran a Dios y aquellos que no.

Las enseñanzas de Jesús sobre el corazón enfatizan la importancia de la transformación interior y de alinear nuestros pensamientos con la voluntad de Dios. Él nos recuerda que el verdadero discipulado no solo implica acciones externas, sino un cambio genuino de corazón, que requiere vigilancia constante y confianza en la Palabra y la gracia de Dios para cultivar pensamientos e intenciones puros.

Si ve un problema importante en la traducción, envíeme una corrección por correo electrónico a charleswood1@gmail.com