Joshua's Message

His stout frame carries a sort of respectable momentum with it as he pounds out the careful steps up the climbs and down the slopes of the Philippine jungle mountains.  Strong legs and back are not the only characteristics he possesses, however.  A strong will and a strong heart have taken this young man from the comforts of his home and friends to the far away island people he serves -- the people he now works with and learns with and teaches with.  Joshua is known for his world-class adventure radar; a radar that never comes up empty.

A peaceful evening awaits his arrival in the neighboring town as the shadows lengthen and the insects begin their nightly chorus.  Joshua soon enjoys a peaceful evening of worship and singing with his mountain neighbors: an evening well worth the two-hour trek.  It is finally Sabbath, a busy day on the outside, but a relief for him on the inside.  Sleep comes as a welcome conclusion to the week's journey and as refreshment for the Sabbath's events.  In the morning he calls his parents before heading to church.

"Will you be preaching?" they ask.

"Nah," he replies, "someone else is going to preach."

Joshua is a bright kid.  A sociable person by nature, his language skills are above-average and his curiosity and inquisitiveness would long have killed several cats.  Although teaching class in the island tongue has presented its share of difficulties, the mind of this missionary welcomes the challenge.  Fluency, however, is yet a goal for the future, to be acquired at a later date.

As soon as he hangs up, his friend next to him asks, "Will you preach today?"

The radar has picked up on another adventure.  Of course Josh will preach.  And it goes well.  His trek, his voice, his adventure, his heart - they all testify to Josh's love for his King.  Without a translator, without big words or fancy technology, Joshua tells - he lives - a story.   The people listen, and they understand: the Lord saves.