Dear Ones,
There is no disguising the fact that this has been a difficult year. All have faced challenges. Some have experienced tragedy. If we focus on circumstances, we can easily find reasons for both gloom and happiness. Circumstances change. God does not!
Thanksgiving is not just an opportunity to consider our blessings. It is the act of looking beyond our circumstances to see the One Who is the giver of every good and perfect gift. Regardless of our circumstances the fact is that God is kind. His mercies are new every morning. His love is perfect, and it is by His grace that we are saved.
As I look back to the founding of the Ranch in 1991, Susan and I had been given a dream and a piece of land. There were a few people who were praying with us for God to work miracles and make the dream come true. God answered! Through the generosity of many people He has built and sustained this ministry. Since our first child arrived in 1992, we have welcomed over 250 children into this beautiful, Christ centered place where His love shines through a dedicated team of caregivers. God has used people to display the truth of the Gospel to hurting children, and I am thankful!
As I look forward to the future, I am filled with joy. We have been working as a board for several years to ensure that if something happened to me the Ranch would remain on course, true to the mission God gave us. I am excited to announce that, by unanimous vote of the Board, my son Clayton will assume some of my duties as CEO in 2021. He will retain leadership of his wonderful ministry in Knoxville, and his board there also voted unanimously to support his coming alongside me at the Ranch.
I will continue some of my responsibilities as founder but Clayton will supervise the three senior staff who have served under me for years. There will be more information in future communication, but the good news is that God has provided a way for me to continue to serve here without carrying the full load that has become difficult as I am getting older.
By God’s grace the Ranch is continuing to serve children who need to experience His love in a safe, nurturing environment. Your generosity is God’s way of securing that future. Because of His faithfulness we are able to continue to welcome the children. One of our supporters has offered a challenge gift to match your gift up to $100,000 between now and the end of this year. For your prayers and generosity, we are very thankful!
God bless you!
