“While I can, I sail east in the Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I paddle east in my coracle. When she sinks, I shall swim east with my four paws. And when I can swim no longer, if I have not reached Aslan’s country, or shot over the world in some vast cataract, I shall sink with my nose to the sunrise and Peepicheek will be head of the talking mice of Narnia”. ~Reepicheep, Voyage of the Dawn Treader
With these words Reepicheep, the talking mouse of Narnia, began his journey to see the end of the world and the land of Aslan. Reepicheep is one of my most favorite characters in all of literature. He is one of the bravest and most noble characters that I have ever had the pleasure to read about. In Prince Caspian, the brave Reepicheep fights valiantly and nearly gives his life for his king and land of Narnia. However, the greatest thing about Reepicheep is that he knows there is a greater land and kingdom than his earthly kingdom of Narnia.
I almost get chills when I read about Reepicheep’s longing to reach the land of Aslan. Reepicheep realizes that there is so much more in the world and will do everything in his power to reach that land, including giving his own life.
As many of you know, I had the privilege of serving six years in the Army National Guard and served almost a year in Iraq. Throughout those years, I have absolutely no doubt that God was protecting me as I served. Serving my country has been one of the highlights of my life and I would gladly do it again. However, just like Reepicheep, I believe that I also belong to something greater.
As a Christian, I am a soldier in the Kingdom of God. As Paul wrote “I wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places”. (Ephesian 6:12) I believe that God has called me to serve with the World Race and help take the Gospel to places that truly need it. Please keep me and my fellow racers in your prayers as we take on those “rulers of the darkness of this world” that Paul talks about overseas. God has protected me as I served my country and I feel sure that he will protect my team and I as we serve him. I also ask that you pray about supporting me financially. Every little bit will help to ensure that we are able to spread the Gospel to those that need it most. Thank you for your future prayers and financial support.
In Christ,
Stephen J. Sloan
