Ahhh, the Sabbath. As I sat next to our unit chaplain who had accompanied me to our Sacrament meeting, I enjoyed and extra outpouring of the Spirit. Having a guest attend meetings makes you acutely aware of everything going on. It's rare that I've viewed our services from the perspective of a non-member. I watched everything through new eyes, intent on seeing things as he was. And you know what? We have an amazing church! It may not have the entertainment factor of a live band, or the expected fiery sermon from a pastor, but it has its own gems...
Our hymns are beautiful, reverent, and today, accompanied only by a Soldier with a violin. The sacrament ordinance is simple, clear and powerful. And then to have a young Sergeant stand and deliver a discourse on the family that was given humbly and with the Spirit had to resonate with a man who has served as the pastor of a church for over 24 years, where he is expected to deliver a sermon that must hold the congregations attention week after week.

This chaplain is becoming a fast friend, someone whose conduct, conversation and influence is consistently uplifting. The group of men he frequently associates with are all on a journey together to read, study, compare and ponder older, various versions of scriptural texts, seeking the TRUTH that they are aware is in there, but not readily evident in modern interpretations. I find it interesting... the recognition that there is an absolute truth out there, and the acknowledgment, however circumstantial, that it is not contained within the construct of their religion. It is evident that it is insufficient for me to be grateful for my testimony...this gospel isn't about me...it's about them.