This morning as I was working for this weekends teaching I ran across a series of articles in the ajc about Chaplain Darren Turner. He is in Iraq serving men who are facing some of the hardest stuff that people have ever faced. Reading through some of the articles I felt strangely emotional. It is easy to think that ministry is hard or difficult but then I read what this guy is doing for the kingdom and something stirs deep in me. It is an appreciation for what he is doing and a prayer of protection over him and his two children in Richmond Hill, GA with their mother. I viewed the images from the series and this one just chewed up my heart.

I think of sacrificing for the kingdom and what comes to mind is missing dinner with my family or working without a day off for a few weeks. I think of Chaplain Turner in this photo with his son clutched to him begging him not to go and tears well up in my eyes. I see the anguish on his face and my heart breaks for him. I see the resolute wife sitting by him and I am thankful Darren has her.

I am impressed and amazed by this man because knowing how much I love Madi and just imagining this scene with me on the couch makes me think of all types of ways I would avoid leaving my family. Head to Canada, Mexico, shoot myself in the foot, anything to keep from leaving my child and wife.
But Darren Turner is a warrior for the kingdom of God sacrificing all the joys of his life for the ultimate joy of Life.

Father, I ask your divine blessing on Darren Turner and the men he serves. May you protect them with your right hand. May you comfort Darren’s men through his efforts and may they see your grace and beauty in the ugly place they inhabit. May all of us who are called to be warriors for you be willing to leave it all behind, even that which we love most.
Amen

Darren Turner – Warrior For God.