“The War Cry” asked Lieutenant Jim Kaake, who was recently commissioned as a lieutenant in the Central Territory, to share about his calling and experiences in training. 

How did you experience God’s calling to officership?

My call to officership was not a lightning-bolt moment or the result of an instant revelation. It was, instead, a gradual journey that came to be through a series of experiences, leading me to trust in God’s timing and plan. My journey in discovering my calling began when I was paroled from prison to the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center, where I was first introduced to their programs, services, and outreach efforts. During my time there, I gained a deeper understanding of how the Army serves its communities. 

After completing the program, I stayed connected to the ARC by visiting, teaching classes, attending retreats, conferences, and ended up working as a resident manager. It was during the Men’s Ignite Conference in the Western Division that God planted the seed of officership and helped it begin to take shape. Over the course of the weekend, three different people, at various times, asked me if I had ever considered becoming an officer. This seemed too significant to ignore, prompting me to pray and seek God’s guidance.

I hope my journey will inspire others to listen for and respond to their own spiritual callings, trusting that when we follow God’s path, He will open doors and lead us where we need to go.

What is the greatest joy you experienced as a cadet?

The greatest joy I’ve experienced as a cadet isn’t so much the academic workload, but rather the incredible sense of being part of a community of like-minded individuals. All the people around me, my fellow cadets, staff, and mentors, are always ready and willing to come alongside me, offering encouragement, support, and love, especially during those inevitably stressful times. 

Another significant source of joy for me is the hands-on experience of being out in the field, actively engaging with the people and communities. It’s one thing to learn about officership in the classroom, but it’s something completely different to experience it firsthand and in real life.

What is your advice for someone who feels called to officership but hasn’t yet responded?

My advice for anyone who feels they’re being called to officership, or to any other purpose in their life, is to start praying about it. Not just a quick, one-time prayer, but a continuous, heartfelt conversation with God. I believe that prayer is how we seek clarity and guidance, and it opens our hearts to God’s good plan, will, and purpose.

Illustration by Richard Chance