50 YEARS OF MIRACLES HAPPENING!

In 1971, I was in Bible College preparing for a ministry with youth somewhere.  I worked for my father in heavy construction up until my accident in 1973.   I had attended camp as a youth, which had a great impact on my life, and worked in the camping ministry several summers.  We (my father and I) had been looking for some property in the area to start a camp.  In 1971 just 5 miles from where we lived, we were told of 40 acres of land along the Root River, which my father purchased. The ranch got legally started in May of 1976.

Here are some of the principles I have tried to follow the last 50 years:

• Proverbs 15:1 “A soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger”

• Proverbs 15:22 “In the multitude of counselors there is safely, but without counsel purposes are disappointing”

• Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is better than great riches.”

• Colossians 3:23 Camp verse to this day. “ Whatever you do, do it heartily unto the Lord and not unto men.”

• I Corinthians 15:58 - I have shared this verse every summer to the staff and leaders:

  “Be steadfast, unmovable abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing your labor is not wasted”

The word PERSEVERANCE has been my rock over the years.  I always say that some of your dreams and goals are not available today and can not be purchased.   They are only available if you are willing to persevere.  As I say, Don’t quit, finish strong!

• Ironwood - is a type of tree that grows throughout the ranch.

• Springs – it is located along the Root River, providing heating/cooling for the Miracle Lodge.

• Christian – We wanted this as our focus of sharing Christ with others.

• Ranch – I wanted a ranch style camp with horses and plenty of outdoor activities. 

NOTE: Our first budget in 1976 was $40,000 for the year, which seemed impossible.

Need a boost of encouragement for the soul? Check out a message called “Soul Repair” from eaglebrookchurch.com.