"You give them something to eat" Jesus spoke these words to a group of disciples with limited resources who faced an overwhelming need. They had been so busy with ministry that they were tired and hungry. They needed a break from the crowds, and so they traveled to a remote place (Mark 6:30-32). When they arrived, crowds quickly spoiled their solitude. Jesus showed compassion and began to teach the people once again. Finally, the disciples appealed to Jesus to recognize the practical realities: "Send the people away..." But Jesus answered, "You give them something to eat" (Mark 6:36-37). We all know the rest of the story. The only one of Jesus' miracles recorded in all four gospels is the feeding of the five thousand. The famous title of this miracle omits the many women and children who shared in this amazing display of grace. But Jesus didn't just multiply the loaves and fish. Looking beyond the seemingly meager resources, Jesus saw His Father's love and gave thanks! Later, when referring to this miracle, John describes it this way, "...the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks" (John 6:23). Giving thanks is an essential manifestation of true faith. We too are to offer our requests to God in the context of thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6). Here at Wears Valley Ranch we confront needs that are staggering. Day after day, we look into the faces of children who have experienced pain and tragedy that is difficult to imagine. We talk with parents and grandparents who are walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Apart from Christ, we would have no hope to offer them.  The financial pressures that affect this economy impact the Ranch as well. We have donors dealing with job loss, reduced business profits, lower home values and diminishing retirement incomes. In the midst of these reductions, we all find prices going higher at the gas pump, the grocery store, and for medical care and insurance. The Ranch is not immune, and our donors are not immune. We need a significant increase in donations by year's end. Yet as we face those needs, we are reminded that, before he performed the miracle, our Lord gave thanks. Jesus told His disciples to have the people sit down in groups on the grass. John observes that "there was plenty of grass" (John 6:10). It is good to note those blessings that we do have in abundance.  Certainly, the Ranch has much for which we are grateful. We thank God for the hundreds of you who have told us that you pray for us each day. I believe that is why we continue to see miracles here year after year. We thank God for daily bread. At our recent board meeting, as we enjoyed a meal with our staff and students, we noted that all but one of the dishes served was grown at the Ranch. We actually bake bread from wheat grown here! We thank God for the people He has called to serve here. We need additional houseparents, but we thank God for those who are serving so well right now. The need is overwhelming. Our resources seem small. We must not send the people away empty. Jesus commands us to give them something to eat. We need to begin by giving thanks. The miracles will follow! Jim Wood Wears Valley Ranch
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