"Rob"SERVATIONS July '20

I believe a big part of any ministry is serving others.  As addicts we spend so long looking after ourselves and doing anything necessary to support our habit.  Most of the time that involves taking from our families, friends and ultimately people in society.  It is one of our missions here at the ranch to show the men how to live a life that is centered around putting others first.  That’s exactly what Jesus did, and that’s exactly what has helped me to be able to live a life in sobriety that is full and purposeful.  The Bible said in Hebrews 6:10 “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped His people and continue to help them”.  God spoke to Paul in Galatians 5:13 and it says “ You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free.  But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love”.  We take the guys on a journey as they stay with us.  Part of that journey is doing service work for people in need.  We maintain the yards of 3 families each week.  When we show up these families greet the guys with love.  They are so excited to see them.  It never fails that going to see these families becomes a highlight to the men.  Through this they learn how to start feeling good about what they are doing and learn why it’s important.  They begin to love again.  We are always looking for ways to help the community. We help many people throughout the year.  

Another part of the journey is going up to Living Waters in North Carolina.  We go several times a year.  Many of the guys get so stuck in their previous lifestyle that they cannot travel and see God’s wonderful creation.  The drugs and alcohol keep them bound to the same old routine day in and day out.  We usually spend 4 days doing various projects around the property.  We also take the time to go and explore the rivers, mountains, and trails in the area.  God made this world for us to explore and see his beauty, so I believe in showing the guys as much of it as possible.  

Serving the men at the ranch is a delight.  I hope that each man that comes through here can see that it is not just about getting off drugs and alcohol. It’s far more than that.  The goal is for them to realize they need a life change.  They need Jesus. I want you to know that I appreciate everything you do for the ranch; especially praying.  I am excited to see what God has in store as we enter our 5th year in July, and I am even more excited that you are a part of it.