Hi everyone! My name is Cal, and I am one of 47 students living here at Joshua Lodge. Over the past two weeks, we have experienced so many new beginnings.
Our first few days consisted of some HR training and getting settled in. Then Dallas, our director, surprised us. He gave us 30 minutes to pack our bags and head out on a hike to a nearby camping area called Wildwood. We spent three days there without our phones, watches, mirrors, or makeup (I don’t wear makeup, so that part was easy for me). These boundaries gave us a focused opportunity to reflect on why I am here, what God wants from me, and how to embrace my community without distraction.
After we returned from Wildwood, we began our weekend work. About half of the Joshua class and I were trained as adventure guides for the ropes course. Being able to attend church on Sunday evening and spend time with the Hume community was really encouraging for me. Everyone here is so welcoming.
This week, we started the “normal” rhythm of Joshua. We began our classes in Biblical Interpretation and Old Testament Survey. Our first speaker, Bob Phillips, who directed Hume for many years, shared so much biblical wisdom about motivation, faith, and spiritual gifts.
The community here has been one of the greatest blessings of this program. I’m shocked by how quickly the guys’ community has come together. Everyone is so open and supportive with one another. In addition to our classmates, we have also spent time with our Catalyst couple, John and Aubrie Foster.
During this time, God is teaching me to examine and surrender my heart behind every desire, impulse, and action. It’s busy up here, but we are blessed to be occupied with many incredible joys and challenges as we pursue Christ together in this community.
Thank you for your prayers and support!
In Him
Calvin Willis (current Joshua student)