It turns out that the beach resort I am staying at has wireless internet access, so today I broke my usual rule of no work on vacation long enough to answer some important emails. I have a lot of ‘irons in the fire’ from speaking engagements and museum board meetings, to book signings and a release party. Of all the upcoming events on my calendar none are more important than the class on the life and death of ‘Stonewall’ Jackson that I will be teaching at Spotsylvania Presbyterian Church (see details below under Aug. 4: 'Back to school').

Today I had to send my logistical details and media/room request information to the church office and order a case of ‘Onward Christian Soldier’ from my publisher. I’ll be spending the next few weeks compiling workbooks and finalizing my lesson plan. There are some tremendously blessed history teachers across the blogosphere who have offered some great advice on course management. In the past, I’ve led two men’s ministry bible studies, but this session requires a completely different focus. Here is my final synopsis that will be posted in the church’s group study program.

STONEWALL STUDY: Based on SPC member Michael Aubrecht’s book “Onward Christian Soldier” this course teaches what it truly means to be a prayer warrior by focusing on Christian principles for lifestyle and leadership. This history/theology course will include a viewing of ‘Still Standing’ and conclude with a special field trip to the nearby Stonewall Jackson Shrine. Leader: Michael Aubrecht. Requirements: Bible (KJV preferred), Copy of the book (*Discounted copies are available for $12.) Workbooks will be provided at no cost. Starts Sept.10. Wed. nights at 6:30. Room TBD.

Beyond fellowship and scripture study, the ultimate goal of this course is to use the life and legacy of Thomas Jonathan Jackson as a character blueprint to help model our lives as Christian men after. Faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was the foundation of Jackson’s strength, tenacity and genius. Religion gave him an immaculate courage and principle both on and off the battlefield. In retrospect, he was a far better man than you or I and we should all try to learn from his example as a deacon, soldier, husband and father. I have struggled myself to walk in a similar path knowing that I will most certainly fall short of the bar that Jackson set. Sacrifice and discipline are two virtues that I still wrestle with. Both were pillars in the life of this righteous southern hero. (And while the 'secular-enemy' continues to tear the legacy of 'Stonewall' Jackson and his contemporaries down, I will strive to build them back up.)

My life has already been changed forever through the study of this godly man. It has cost me many pleasures (that were really vices), most of my ‘pre-saved’ friends (who were really bad influences), and forever altered the way that I look at the world (much simpler and convicted). Of course this is much more difficult living in our broken world in 2008. Fortunately we have the wisdom of the Word and the footsteps of those believers who came before us to lead the way. Stay tuned for details on what I pray will be a life-changing experience for all who participate.

BTW: I did catch some sharks (BIG and small) and will have some great photos to share in the coming week. PS. Props to Rev. Rick Warren for providing a neutral platform for McCain and Obama to express their views about faith in America. As a dedicated Christian Libertarian, I am VERY anxious to see what they'll say. Unfortunately just like me, neither of these candidates are of Jackson's caliber.