A Tale Of Two Toms
Eugene Peterson once described discipleship as “a long obedience in the same direction.” I’m inspired by people who live that way—those who find something they love and stick with it. Decades later, they’re still passionate. Still growing. Still pushing the envelope. Still leading. Whether it’s musicians, movie stars, missionaries, or mentors—commitment is a rare and roaring virtue. That’s how we should approach our walk with God, as well as our relationships, and our work, too.
In the early 2000s, my wife and I moved to Los Angeles to work with her uncle, Tommy Walker—a well-known worship leader and songwriter who had found success with Promise Keepers, Harvest Crusades, and was preparing to record a new worship album through Integrity Records. He was also a worship pastor at Christian Assembly in Eagle Rock, leading a massive team of over 120 gifted musicians.
It was an amazing season. We were surrounded by music, ministry, and backstage access to some of LA’s most incredible musicians and bands. But what inspired me most wasn’t the spotlight—it was Tommy’s unseen commitment.
Every single day, even with hits like “He Knows My Name,” “Mourning Into Dancing,” and “That’s Why We Praise Him” climbing the charts, he would spend hours practicing. Sweeps. Scales. Chord combinations. Over and over. He wasn’t coasting on past success—he was still building, still learning, still growing.
And the truth is: he still is.
That’s commitment.
Next week, my boys and I plan to watch the final Mission: Impossible movie starring another Tom —Tom Cruise. We’ve been watching behind-the-scenes footage of him doing his own extreme stunts — even in his 60s — and we’re amazed. He’s still stretching the limits. Still training. Still performing at the highest level.
He’s the action hero’s action hero!
It’s the same principle as Tommy Walker—reps, not rest.
Whatever field you’re in—ministry, music, firefighting, parenting, building businesses or dreams—don’t coast. Don’t plateau. Don’t just rely on your resume from ten years ago. Stay sharp. Keep growing. Keep learning. Keep roaring.
Do what you love, but never settle. Put in the reps. Sharpen your craft. Push boundaries. Shine brighter. Not just for increased success,
but because excellence honors God.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” —Colossians 3:23
P.S.
To learn more about Tommy Walker’s global worship ministry, visit: