Weekly Email: November 24, 2025
Walking the long path of seminary is never a solitary experience. Even if you are the only person in your immediate circle pursuing theological studies, your life is still shaped by the people who travel alongside you.
As I reflected on how this journey can feel heavy or lonely, my mind kept returning to The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien understood something important about calling. Frodo may have been chosen to carry the Ring, but the task is never borne in isolation. The story moves forward because others quietly step beside him, strengthening him in ways he cannot supply for himself.
One of the most striking moments comes early in The Fellowship of the Ring, when Frodo begins to consider whether he should break away from his friends and continue the journey alone. He fears the danger he is placing on others. Sam will have none of it. His response captures what loyal presence looks like:
“If you don’t come back, sir, then I shan’t, that’s certain,” Sam says. “‘Don’t you leave him!’ they said to me. ‘Leave him!’ I said. ‘I never mean to. I am going with him, if he climbs to the Moon; and if any of those Black Riders try to stop him, they’ll have Sam Gamgee to reckon with,’ I said. They laughed.”
The power of that moment is not in dramatic heroism but in the clarity of devotion. Frodo carries the Ring, yet Sam carries Frodo. Frodo fears being a burden, yet Sam’s presence is the very thing that makes Frodo’s calling possible.
Tolkien gives us a picture of what most of us only learn through experience. A calling may rest on one pair of shoulders, but the endurance to pursue it comes through the faithfulness and support of others.
Seminary often mirrors that truth. You shoulder the responsibilities of reading, writing, deadlines, and ministry. Yet the people around you make your faithfulness sustainable.
Your spouse handles the evening routine so you can study. Your friend sends a check-in text at the exact moment you feel stretched thin. Your colleague steps in so you can finish a paper. Your son or daughter leaves their toys by your door because they know you need a quiet study hour.
These small decisions rarely draw attention to themselves, yet they are the scaffolding that supports your learning.
A Posture of Gratitude
As the Thanksgiving season approaches, this is a good moment to pause and name the people who have lightened your load this semester. Think of one or two specific individuals and identify exactly what they did and how it helped. Then express your gratitude in a way they can see or hold. A handwritten note on the counter. A short card tucked where they will find it. A simple conversation that names their support clearly. These small acts strengthen the relationships that make your calling possible.
Moving Forward Together
The semester still has its demands, especially during the holidays, but do not overlook the people who have helped you get this far. Your responsibilities may feel heavy, yet you have not carried them alone. Someone has walked beside you and absorbed part of the weight without being asked. Someone has been your Sam in ways you may not have fully recognized. This week, thank them in a deliberate and tangible way. Gratitude offered clearly strengthens both you and the people God uses to sustain you along the way.
Program News: Three courses for your winter
The winter term is almost here, and if you are still deciding what to take, I want to highlight three courses worth your consideration. You can see all the courses offered on MySBTS.
1. Contemporary Issues in Islam with Dr. Ayman Ibrahim
Dr. Ibrahim is one of the world’s leading scholars on Islam. He has written widely on the subject, contributes regularly to WORLD Magazine, and directs the Jenkins Center here at Southern. This course is an excellent opportunity to understand one of the fastest-growing religions in the world and to learn how to engage Muslims in your community and beyond.
2. Ten Battles That Define the Gospel with Dr. Mohler
This course offers a unique chance to study directly with Dr. Mohler. The LiveSync sessions will provide space to ask questions, hear his reflections, and engage in conversation about the historical and theological battles that have shaped Christianity. If you have been waiting to take a class with him, this is a great option.
3. Intro to Missiology with Dr. Paul Akin
Dr. Akin serves as Provost and as Associate Professor of Missions. He also hosts the “Amazon to the Himalayas” podcast, which features conversations with missionaries and global workers. It is a helpful way to stay connected to what God is doing around the world and to pray more intentionally. His winter course is a great fit if you want to think more deeply about global missions and the work of the church across cultures.
Quick Reference of Upcoming Term Dates:
Current Week: Fall 2, Week 8 (November 24-December 1)
Winter Term Begins: December 1, 2025
Spring 1 Term Begins: February 2, 2026
Spring 2 Term Begins: April 6, 2026
Register for Courses →
Register for Spring Experiential Modulars →
As always, thank you for reading. I’ll be back with you next week.
