10/03/2026
When I felt God leading me to begin the Barn Ministry, it wasn’t because I was looking for something else to do. I was pushing seventy. At that stage of life, most people are trying to do less, not more.
There was really only one reason I said yes: God asked me.
I have learned that God doesn’t seem nearly as concerned about our age as we are. If He calls us, and we are still willing, He can still use us.
And I was willing.
Since 2023, nearly 600 pastors, missionaries, ministry workers, and their families have stayed at the Barn. I would estimate another 3,000 people have come through these gates for worship at the Denney-Hunt Chapel, retreats, weddings, funerals, Bible studies, gatherings, and other special occasions.
But through all those people and all those different moments, there has been one word that has mattered deeply to me:
Trust.
People have trusted us with their weariness, their families, their stories, their struggles, and sometimes simply their need for a quiet place to breathe.
From the beginning, I have felt strongly that I never want to charge a pastor or missionary to stay here. I don't want them arriving wondering what we expect in return. I don't want to ask them to give to Shepherd's Hope or support one of our other ministries.
This isn't about what they can give us.
It's about what we can give them.
I want those who have spent their lives pouring themselves out for others to come here and be reminded that they matter too. Their calling matters. Their families matter. Their weariness matters. And sometimes the people who spend their lives caring for everyone else need someone to care for them.
I know I am much closer to the end of my journey than I am to the beginning. I don't say that sadly. I say it gratefully.
I don't know how many years, days, sermons, conversations, or opportunities I have left. But I do know what I want to do with them.
I want to live them well.
I want to keep saying yes when Jesus asks. I want to keep giving instead of taking. I want to keep encouraging those who carry the weight of ministry. And as long as He gives me strength, I want to keep serving the Jesus who has been so faithful to me.
Maybe that is what finishing well really means.
Not slowing down simply because you are getting older, but staying willing as long as God can still use you.
And if He still has something for me to do, my answer is still the same:
Yes, Lord. I am willing. If you want more information, email me at [email protected]
