Christmas 2015
The barn was dimly lit by strings of tiny white lights that had been strung into the rafters. The sound of the horses rhythmically munching their dinner hay filled the air. Hay bales had been placed in a circle and we were ready for Scott to begin to tell the story. The old story with a new meaning the night of the Timber Ridge Family Christmas.
Preparations had been underway for weeks and I was amazed at how quickly the evening had come. We’d all been busy-cleaning, baking, decorating, planning and praying for this special time. Last year there were only seven of us that gathered in the barn and listened to the familiar story of an unexpected event that forever changed the world, but tonight there were twenty-seven.
Our guests began to arrive and chatter filled the farm yard as we caught up on events that had happened since we’d seen each other last. Our special kids raced around the farm in search of their favourite kitties, in awe of exploring the Ranch at night. Many of the children had never met before but after only a short introduction were all running around playing together. There is a certain magic to the evenings, when all of the animals have been cared for, the horses munching, the chickens tucking themselves in on their roost and the cats finding a warm spot to curl up in.
We were an unlikely group gathered on hay bales that formed a circle in the barn. Yet somehow, through life’s circumstances we had found connection. A love for animals sparked a friendship and through time spent together we learned more about each other. We’ve spent hours side by side working together and sharing our struggles and our hopes. We’ve shared fun memories and we’ve been through tough news. Gathered in the barn that peaceful evening, we were all listening to a story of hope. The story of Jesus, being born onto this earth as a baby, coming from such an unlikely circumstance to bring the best gifts to the world. Peace, joy and hope... things that could not and can not be found anywhere else. Like the shepherds and wise men who came to worship Baby Jesus we reflected on our Saviour Jesus. We were blessed to be able to call those sitting with us “family.” As our reading finished up, I couldn’t help but smile at how priveledged we are to have such quality relationships with so many wonderful people.
After sitting still for what seemed like a long time for them, the kids eagerly fed Clyde and Herman carrots and peppermint treats and we moved on to cookies, hot cocoa, and crafts. A bonfire for the adults and many rounds of various tag games for the kids finished up our evening together.
It wasn’t until after our Timber Ridge Family Christmas was over that I realized something. Through it I learned more about how the blessing of giving really works. I’m sure the kids think we gave them great gifts, but what really struck me was how much of a gift it was just to be with them, the smiles, the hugs and the laughter. Nothing could compare to having them back at the Ranch. God gave us His best gift when He sent Jesus to rescue us and I think we get a small taste of what that was like for Him, when we give to others. I hope you experience both the depth of being with those you love and the priveledge of giving this season. Merry Christmas!
Ranch News
The mild late fall weather has been welcome at the Ranch as it’s allowed us to continue working on construction projects! Fencing in the back pasture is well underway, there are holes to be dug, posts to be set and boards to be screwed on. We are so grateful for the volunteers that have dedicated parts of their weekends to help out! Inside the back pasture fence a run-in shed is being constructed (a three sided structure that will protect the horses from the elements) we are hoping to continue to work on getting these projects buttoned up before winter REALLY arrives. If you are interested in getting some physical labour in this Holiday Season there is always something to do outdoors at the Ranch! We welcome volunteers of any skill level. With the colder weather and shorter days upon us, sessions have ended for the season and will resume in the Spring. We welcome you for a visit to the Ranch over the snowy season, our critters have grown their winter coats and are adorably fuzzy in preparation for the cold!
Prayer Requests
We ask for your support in prayer for the following:
Guidance in the development of the ranch, we look forward to expanding our program and looking into various ways we can connect with the community
That He would continue to send people to us
That we would grow closer to Him in this Season of Christmas
Wisdom as we prepare for Spring sessions
Volunteer Opportunities
We have many different opportunities for anyone who has a willing heart to invest in the Ranch. Whether you’re good with kids or adults, horses or mechanical things, we’ve got opportunities to help here. Let us know if you’ve got a free weekend to help with a proj-ect or two, or you just want to spend an hour once in a while unloading a hay wagon, grooming a horse, or picking up poop! There’s always stuff to do here!
Donate
Donations to support our ministry can be submitted on our website or sent to:
Timber Ridge Ranch, 2691 Route 174, Marietta, NY 13110.
We are a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.