OCF Crosspoint Podcast

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Fort Knox OCF update: Continue praying for the ROTC cadets as they've returned to their campuses and begun new semesters. To learn more about and/or get involved with OCF's ROTC ministry, visit ocfusa.org/rotc

• Connected print newsletters: If you don't receive this biannual piece in your mailbox this fall, be sure to update your info via ocfusa.org/update so that we don't miss you next spring. This fall's newsletter will also be available online at ocfusa.org/connected

• Ted & Beverly Kaiser: Contact this newest couple on the OCF team by emailing [email protected]

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at [email protected].

• The Bowens' Fort Carson OCF group: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to connect with groups like the Bowens', and visit ocfusa.org/list-me to start your own group wherever you are.

ASK OCF

COL Steve & Miriam Shambach, USA (Ret.), who serve as the OCF Mountain Central Regional Coordinator couple, answered this question from another OCFer: Retired, I don't live near a military base, no local OCF folks near me...what opportunity is there for fellowship/training through Zoom?

In case you missed the Shambachs' article in the spring 2024 issue of Connected print newsletter, you can find it here: From Service to Support: How Veterans Can Stay Engaged in OCF.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1995 and later returned there to be a professor. After retiring in 2019, he joined the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching, and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF. He currently serves as the ACCTS coordinator for Latin America.

Whether discussing the origin story of ACCTS, the countries he works with as an ACCTS staffer, or his own life, Andy's passion for sharing how God works in the details is clear. He talks about the upcoming AMCF World Conference, approaching this October in Brazil, which you can support by attending, praying for the gathering, and/or contributing to a scholarship for other guests.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Andy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How can you engage in the international ministry ACCTS does?

1. When have you seen God work through hard situations, whether in your own life or in events across the world?

1. Why is it important to discuss how God is working in other nation's military communities?

Show Notes

In this bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint, podcast host Josh Jackson continues his discussion with CH(CPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), focusing on the theme of hardship and suffering.

The conversation delves into defining suffering, recognizing its various sources—such as persecution, sin, and the actions of others—and understanding its impact. They address the dangers of comparison, which can undermine endurance, and emphasize the importance of acknowledging our lack of control as a starting point for discovering God's purpose in suffering.

The episode offers practical advice for navigating hardship, including perseverance and concentrating on what we can control. It also explores the purpose behind suffering, such as being shaped into the image of Christ and learning obedience. The conversation touches on the challenging yet transformative concept of rejoicing in suffering and finding hope amidst adversity. Silence and listening to God are highlighted as crucial practices in these times, along with the importance of seeking God's will through prayer.

Additionally, the discussion covers the role of discipline and training in preparing for suffering, encouraging believers to embrace it with a mindset of rejoicing. By viewing suffering as something appointed by God rather than accidental, believers can appreciate the transformative work God accomplishes through these hardships.

Points to Ponder

As you listen to this conversation with CH Will, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?
4. Michael talks about prayer as "the most effective tool" in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

New hires; jobs still available on OCF team: While couples have stepped forward to fill open positions at USMA and USCGA on an interim basis, the application window at both West Point and the Coast Guard Academy is now extended to 31 October with an expected start date in the summer of 2025. To learn more and apply, visit our job openings page.

Fall programs await at Spring Canyon and White Sulphur Springs:

Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop, 13-15 September, at WSS: Jump-start your career transition with a weekend of interactive work, group discussions, and personal exercises, all facilitated by retired military leaders with over 200 years of combined leadership and life-coaching experience.

Climb Together, September 2024, at SC: This three-day wilderness experience, complete with outdoor activities, campfires, spectacular mountain vistas and events, is tailored to meet the needs of busy families who yearn to "Reconnect in the Rockies."

Parent-Youth Adventure Weekends, October-November 2024, at WSS: Designed for one parent and one child, these weekends are an opportunity to build memories that will last a lifetime.

ASK OCF

TSgt Ryan Padgett, USAF (Ret.), answered the FAQ: Is OCF only for officers? Ryan shares about his own experience with joining OCF and encourages other enlisted service members to get involved, too.

Interested in getting involved in OCF? Fill out our membership form and/or find an OCF study near you.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

CH(CAPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), spoke on this month's episode about hardship and suffering, topics which also served as his focus while he was the speaker for a week of Summer R&R at White Sulphur Springs last month.

Having enlisted in 1992 and later commissioned as a chaplain, Michael has also pastored churches in Ohio and Canada. He currently serves as the associate pastor for discipleship at Grace Evangelical Congregational Church in Knox, Pa.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Michael, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?
4. Michael talks about prayer as "the most effective tool" in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• OCF purchased a new staff home at Spring Canyon: To contribute to OCF's purchase of this house, make an online donation to the Refreshing the Canyon Fund.
• OCF is expanding efforts in ROTC ministry with a new job opening at The Citadel: To learn more about the Council's approval of this opportunity and/or find the link to apply, click here.
• July marks the halfway point of OCF's conference center ministry: Visit our conference center webpage to learn more about programs and opportunities available later this summer and fall.
• The AMCF World Conference 2024 in Brazil is coming up: This transformative opportunity to connect with other military communities around the world is scheduled for 16-20 October. Click here to learn more and register. Can't attend? Donate to this fund that will provide financial scholarships to other attendees.
• OCF small group spotlight: OCF Field Staffer Paul Homan shared one of several questions posed during the OCF at USAFA spring retreat and spiritual commissioning. What's your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at [email protected].

ASK OCF

CH(COL) Douglas H. Ball, USA answered the FAQ: What are the challenges that our Christian Military Chaplains are facing? His three-part answer mentions busy schedules, role expansion, and cultural change.

Interested in learning more about resources for chaplains and ways to support your chaplains? Check out Chapter 17 of the OCF Handbook.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month, Josh sat down with Brig Gen Jeff H. Hurlbert, USAF (Ret.), who retired from the Air Force in 2023 after 32 years of service. He's currently the chief security officer for Applied Materials, a global leader in the semiconductor, display, and solar panel industries.

Jeff is also a longtime OCF member and current member of the OCF Council. This month, Jeff is speaking at Spring Canyon during the sixth week of Summer Celebration on the topic of humility, and he discusses that same topic here in today's episode of Crosspoint.

Inspired by an OCF Bible study he participated in 15 years ago in Germany and having seen the impact of humility in his own life and career, Jeff addresses several questions such as why humility matters to the military leader, what it is and what it isn't, and more.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Jeff, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define humility?
2. What's a personal example of humility making a difference, whether you were the one displaying humility or observing someone observing humility?
3. How does Christ's example encourage you to lead and live humbly?
4. What gifts has God given you that you can use to serve others for His glory?

Crosspoint Show Notes, June 2024:

Today's episode introduces a new format for the OCF Crosspoint podcast. Moving forward, each monthly episode will consist of three segments: OCF ministry news, an "Ask OCF" segment, and an interview with a guest about a particular topic or personal story.

Read on for links and details from each of these three segments for June 2024.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Volunteers needed for Fort Knox CST ministry: If interested in leading small groups for cadets during summer training at Fort Knox, particularly in July, reach out to Bob Deckard via [email protected] or to Larry Sherbondy via [email protected].

• Conference Center summer programs begin: Visit ocfusa.org/experience to watch our newest video about opportunities at OCF's two Conference Centers—White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., and Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. From there, check out each Conference Center's website to learn more about summer programs and discounts available to first-time guests, active-duty military, and OCF Local Leaders.

• SkillBridge opportunities now available at OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge to check out OCF's newest webpage about our new opportunities available through SkillBridge.

• OCF small group spotlight: Maj Nathan Flack, USAF, serves as the Local Leader for Barksdale AFB OCF and shared what question his group wrestled with recently. What's your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at [email protected].

ASK OCF

OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.), answered some FAQs about Local Leaders and mentioned resources available online. Visit ocfusa.org/toolkit to access these resources. If you'd like to become a Local Leader or if you've not yet listed yourself on our online directory, visit ocfusa.org/list-me to do so.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Have you thought about what that next season of life might look like after military service? What does it look like to have a Biblical approach when it comes to a career transition? And what does your identity have to do with this?

This month, Josh sat down with Maj Gen Pete Peterson, USAF (Ret.) to discuss these questions. Pete is a co-founder of Caleb Challenge, an organization that uses Biblical principles to help men and women transition from military service to the next season that God has planned for them.

Having experienced a career transition himself after 34 years of service in the Air Force, Pete shares his own lessons learned, Biblical principles for a career change, and details about Caleb Challenge. Caleb Challenge is hosting its next workshop at OCF's White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., later this fall. Visit WSS' website to learn more and register for this valuable 13-15 September workshop.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Pete, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Consider Pete's big question for those who will eventually transition out of a military career: What's your real focus?

1. How can you start preparing for your own career transition now?

1. What does it mean to you to "include God in the process"?

1. Why is our identity in Christ important to consider when going through a big life change like a career transition?

In this special episode of OCF Crosspoint, you're going to hear audio from the inaugural OCF Global Town Hall, which was broadcasted live on 10 February from the new Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The first voice that you're going to hear is OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.). He and OCF's CEO / Executive Director, Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.), started by discussing the impactful journey and future visions for OCF. After their opening remarks, the remaining hour or so was used as a Q&A time.

During the Q&A portion, you'll also hear the voice of LTC Colin Wooten, USA (Ret.), who helped moderate and also posed a mix of both real-time questions from the event and questions submitted ahead of time.

The questions covered in this episode centered on these 12 topics:

1. Local Leader training and information.
2. Balancing OCF involvement with commitment to the local church.
3. Starting an OCF ROTC group at a university that does not have one.
4. Opportunities for retired ex-military to get involved with OCF.
5. Creating more awareness about OCF.
6. Challenges that our Christian military chaplains are facing.
7. OCF funding shortfalls.
8. Focusing on the National Guard and Reserves.
9. Reaching out beyond U.S. membership.
10. Pursuing GRACE relations amid a divisive and dismissive culture.
11. Regional training conferences.
12. Two to three things that both Dale and Scott are excited about in the upcoming year.

If you'd rather watch a video of the Global Town Hall, visit ocfusa.org/townhall. On that page, there's also a form you can fill out if you have questions, comments, or feedback, or send an email to [email protected]. We'll make sure your message is sent to the appropriate person.

Today, you'll hear audio from the conclusion of a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon's Aspentime Retreat. If you're new to OCF and you've never heard of Spring Canyon, it's OCF's western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you've never heard of Aspentime, it's a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

Today, you'll hear audio from Part 2 of a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon's Aspentime Retreat. If you're new to OCF and you've never heard of Spring Canyon, it's OCF's western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you've never heard of Aspentime, it's a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

Today, you'll hear audio from a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon's Aspentime Retreat. If you're new to OCF and you've never heard of Spring Canyon, it's OCF's western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you've never heard of Aspentime, it's a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

Got an idea for a guest or topic?

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

Show Notes:

Today's guest is Col Jassen Bluto, USAF, (Ret.), a 32-year veteran who commanded four squadrons, served in combat in Iraq, and oversaw physical security and anti-terrorism policy and training at Air National Guard headquarters. He also gained extensive leadership experience in academia and then in law enforcement, where he served on three separate police agencies before retiring as a detective from an agency in Los Angeles County.

Pulling from decades of experience in enlisted and commissioned roles, Jassen shares three leadership principles–trust, respect, and caring–principles that inspired his short book titled Three Leadership Principles for the Christian in the Military. While the military certainly provides ample leadership training and experience, Jassen shares about the importance of leading from a Christ-centered life, Bible verses that shape his leadership style, and more.

>Check out these resources mentioned in Jassen's interview:

• Three Leadership Principles for the Christian in the Military, Jassen's short book that features Biblical examples and methodology
• Leadership Essentials Podcast, Jassen's podcast that focuses on practical insights for leaders

>Study questions for this episode

As you listen to this conversation with Jassen, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you characterize a good leader and a bad leader?
2. What effect does right relationship with God have on our relationships with others on earth, especially in leadership contexts?
3. What Bible verses come to mind to shape your leadership practices?
4. How does humility produce good leadership?
5. Why is it important to have deeper relationships with those operating under your leadership?
6. Who in your life is providing you with feedback in order to develop your leadership skills?