When we volunteer at Tikkun Farm, we are always welcomed warmly and invited to have fresh baked goods and coffee. We then gather in a circle and share something that we are thankful for. This is followed by a tour of the farm. Each time we go, there is something new to learn about life there, or their mission of restoring people, communities, and nature or even about yourself. Their new walkway through the orchard and gardens was a highlight last Saturday, as it makes them accessible and welcoming to all.
On this visit, we also heard that Max, the abused pig, who had found respite, peace, and love, was now truly resting in peace with all the farm animals that had gone before him. So many of God’s creatures have been rescued and loved at Tikkun while giving joy in return.
After our tour, we volunteer for projects around the farm that fit our skills or interests. There are always a variety of tasks. I’m usually the one chopping vegetables or planting small plants or weeding, so it surprised me when I raised my hand to hang bunting in the barn. The project leader explained that they needed to do this to turn an old barn into an inviting place for their upcoming fundraising dinners. She wasn’t a “ladder person” and it needed to be placed fairly high. I wasn’t a “ladder person” either or at least only a “6 ft. ladder person”! I’m married to a firefighter; he is the “tall ladder person” in our family! But no one else was raising their hand besides another lovely woman who said she would help as she could but wasn’t really a “ladder person” either.
So off we went to do the best we could with the gifts we had or the gifts we hoped we had. What a mighty team we ended up being! Each person doing their part and always making sure they were my spotters, ladder holders, and encouragers. Was I nervous? Yes. Did I think to myself, “I am going to crush these women if I fall?” Yep. Did I say a prayer that God would keep me safe? You bet!
Have you ever taken a leap of faith or stepped out of your comfort zone? Maybe you are out of your comfort zone now with life circumstances, the unrest in our country, or an opportunity that has been presented. Maybe you feel comfortable but not satisfied. Maybe there is something you feel like you need to do but don’t know how to take the first steps. Maybe there is doubt.
My ladder experience certainly wasn’t life-altering, but it was a step to encourage me to try new things and a reminder that taking risks can be scary, but the end result can be completely worth it. Maybe that old barn with the newly hanging bunting will be the catalyst for someone to give their monetary gifts to fuel the beautiful mission of Tikkun Farm. Where can you raise your hand to say, “here I am, Lord. I need you to lead me through this next step”?
No matter which rung on the ladder God is stirring you to take, trust in the things that God is placing on your heart and moving you forward to declare, “we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
Walking in faith with you,
Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation