A week in the books, a week of training camp. Woah. The Lord has undoubtedly gone before all of this and us and is making something beautiful. I sit down at lunch everyday and look at the people around me and think “nine months.'' For nine months I get the privilege of serving, growing and knowing this group of people, people ordained by God to be here in this community, and it is so obvious.

Today, at squad church we were encouraged by the joy that comes when you take up your own cross. The joy in suffering. (Hebrews 12:2-4 and Job 36:15-16) And it's so true!! No matter to what extent, there is something joyful in following Christ and laying down your life, just as he did and just as we were made to. I have taken three bucket showers, hand washed my clothes, slept in a tent and started all over again and I can confidently and truthfully say that I am glad to do it. Yes, it has only been a week, but looking at the next nine months I am not fearful, angry or hesitant. This is where I am supposed to be and I will embrace it all.

Just feeling really really grateful to be here and to be learning from so many people. Thankful that the Lord led me to this place with him and this ministry. Thankful he gave me the courage to walk away from a good place to faithfully walk with him in a new one. Thankful for the cross and the freedom it gives. HERE’S TO THE NEXT NINE MONTHS, to the good, the bad, the hard and the easy. May we find joy in it all, because He is in it all!!!