2nd Chances
My heart was pounding in my ears. I had been so looking forward to visiting with Renee and Patrick on their ranch…both to take in their incredible set up and to be encouraged to keep believing for mine. After a few necessary reschedules, I finally stepped on 2nd Chance Ranch in Ramsey on the last Tuesday of November. And I was not disappointed. God made sure of that.
As Renee and I walked the impeccable grounds of this ranch that they manage and I listened to their schedule set up, I was inspired by all that could be done. My spirit was thrilled and yet felt heavy simultaneously—how patient I would still need to be (I tell my students all the time that we can feel more than one thing at a time). Renee generously and patiently shared her time with my initial questions…and then was faithful to share her heart as she recognized the heaviness of mine. What a gift. She reminded me that if God called me to Seven Hills ranch, He’s already provided the horses, people, buildings, and means for it to come to fruition. And honestly, for a moment, I wondered if I had been “called”…or was this just a “Robyn’s dream, not God’s dream”.
Saying our goodbyes, I warily walked back to my car. Wondering. Doubts swirling like the autumn leaves. I stopped in my tracks. AND I KNEW. UNDOUBTEDLY THE RANCH IS MY CALLING. I knew it because outdoors on a ranch with my animals is where I feel MOST alive. It’s where my heart worships in its most natural form and I am closest to my loving creator.
Let me share what God revealed to me with that visit…because He is personal and faithful. I have had this inspiration of having a ranch for so long—over 20 years. Slowly over those years, the words “my dream” have become the mantra over Seven Hills. And this seems harmless. Until you listen to the difference to THESE words: “my calling”. Listen again—”my dream” vs. “my calling”. Can you hear it? Can you envision the difference in the postures? “My dream” keeps my hands busy to accomplish something on my own by my own strength. However, “MY CALLING” postures me to join up with my Lord with hands out, where I am called to partner with Him and what HE is doing.
That night as I re-centered on Jesus, it was me who got a second chance, or maybe a third or tenth or one thousandth…I’ve lost count. Fortunately, He doesn’t keep count either.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
