To my brief but significant disappointment, I learned yesterday that I cannot take online classes with WTS after all.
Instead, I've pivoted toward pursuing a D.Min. from Liberty U, which is probably the best school for online opportunities (a large percentage of US soldiers get degrees from Liberty online). The nice thing about this program is that intensive courses on campus are required. I believe strongly in the value of the classroom and practicum experience.
I sat with a female soldier today as she wept over the crumbling life of her step-daughter. She has poured lots of time, energy, money and heart into this gal, but apparently for naught as the step-daughter now resides in a prison cell facing felony charges.
There were plenty of fascinating psychological avenues to explore, but the focus on the time was simply spent on distinguishing between matters under this soldier's control and matters that are not. This soldier can do little now to help her step-daughter but pray. But her step-daughter has four kids of her own who will likely now go through a chunk of childhood without their mom.
Thus, the tone of the meeting was mingled with grief and hope. There is a sixth grade girl who will have back surgery in a few weeks. She will be scared and in pain and looking for the hand of her mommy. There will be no hand to grab.
But from even out here, this soldier can extend her hand to her grandchildren and love them from afar until she returns from this deployment. And, as a fellow believer, this soldier can point these children past the shadow of their absentee mom to the unconditional love of the Father in Jesus Christ.
