Today my nephew Caleb begins his dream of becoming a United States Marine.
I’ll always remember Caleb’s age because he was born a week before mine and Tim’s wedding. This soon-to-be 27 year old isn’t the typical age of someone who enlists in the Marines. Caleb will be surrounded by young men who are about 18-19 years of age. Caleb knows that some of the other trainees will look up to him since he is older. I pray that he will be a godly leader for these young men as they journey together. He has been preparing his mind, body, and soul for this undertaking. Pray with me that Caleb’s strength and endurance that will come from God will shine for those around him.
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Ephesians 6:10
Hunter, Tim, Caleb, me, Holly, and Cole
Becoming a Marine has been a desire for him since he was fifteen years old. Caleb says that he wants to gain pride in himself, his country, and to prove to all those who said he couldn’t do it, that he can do it. It is my prayer here that although those naysayers will drive him, I know Caleb’s ultimate proving desire is for God. To God be all the glory.
He knows it is going to be tough and that this endeavor will challenge him to levels he’s never experienced before. Please pray that during those tough times that Caleb will persevere and will always call out to Christ for more strength.
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do no give up. Galatians 6:9
God’s promising great things for Caleb!
When I read the Marine value on Marines.com, it says, “Honor, courage, and commitment are the core values that drive the actions of ever marine, but it is the fighting spirit within that ensures victory.” Pray with me that the Holy Spirit within Caleb will ensure victory for him.
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Ben, Jan, Caleb, and Mike (missed Jake).
Jerrod, Summer, Caleb, Dee, Hadliegh, Kenneth, Wes, and Calli (missed James)
Caleb will be training to be a heavy equipment mechanic and operator. Pray that he will be precise in this position, as his skills will be relied on by others to see them through too.
If you are a family member of someone who is or has been enlist in any of the armed forces, please comment encouraging words either in this website or on the Soaking Up The Son Facebook page. I’ll share all with Caleb when I can.
Daddy Kevin praying over our meal and blessings to Caleb.
Kevin, Caleb, and Wendy (Proud Parents)
Thank you for joining me in a season of prayer for Caleb Parker.
I can’t wait to see what God has in store for him.
(A couple of weeks ago, we had a family gathering for Caleb at our home. We had a great day of playing cornhole, darts, and pool, fishing, laughing, praying, and eating. I’m including only a few of the pics from that evening. Too many to share.)
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
We missed half the family at our gathering down in FL. Here’s the whole Kevin Parker crew:
Leah, Marie, Caleb, Jude, Luke, Kevin, and Wendy.
Emotional momma and strong Caleb.
Caleb and his nanny. (Betty Smith)
Grandpa Carol, Caleb, and Nana
Ms. Wanda, Caleb, and Grandpa Parker
Aunt Linda, Jack, Brett, Caleb, Robyn, and Dennis
Debbie, Caleb, and David
Caleb, Sebastian, and Tiffany (missing Travis)
Brenda, Caleb, and Ricky
When Kevin and Wendy was going through the adoption process for Caleb, he came and stayed with me straight from the hospital. A very hectic week for me having to prepare for your wedding and take care of Caleb.I had some dear friends come to my house and help. Now to see him going into the Marines I am so proud of the man Caleb has become. He is such a loving young man (for God, friends, family and animals). Thanks for your blog honey.