Harvest of Kids

Filled with Skill

Called to restore the Historic Philip Houston House at Shepherd's Staff as a personal retreat

Preparing the floor

Working in wood

The master tile setter

Skilfully papering a corner

When the chef calls - you better come !

Final trim pieces fits perfectly.

This is the easy step

"Then Moses said to...he has filled them with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship." Exodus 35:30

Hold Your Breath

The slow slow assent if over. It's time to hold your breath. Right at the top of the highest point- just before you know the rush is eminent. That point where there is no return - just enjoy the ride!.

Last week end I took my 11 year old grandson to Six Flags. He was far braver than I anticipated, wanting to go for every one of the rides - the scarier the better. He wasn't scared, but I was for him as I watched from my bench in the shade at the exit door.

After months of planning for Creative Arts Camp at Shepherd's Staff, today was packing day. The schedule chart has been shuffled multiple times. The Health forms have been sent out. The cabin groups have been assigned. The wonderful staff members have volunteered thier time and talents to serve the campers. Bible study material is in hand. Program planning is in place for a terrific week of fun, learning and growing- it is all about to begin.

Three car load of kids will come from Texas (some 620 miles away) Other cars will bring excited kids from Hays, Goodland, Oberlin, Oakley, Quinter, Wamego, and Colorado.

By Sunday the activity areas will be set up and campers will arrive in time for dinner, a trip to the ropes course and then a campfire progam of singing and a message. The rest of the week will be a memorble time for all , with an evening performance on Friday.

Under God's Big Top is the theme for the week as we study the Greatest Story Ever Told - of God's redeeming Love .

Eyes That Roam

It is wonderful to have many friends, especially friends in many places.

For the past few weeks I have been preparing for Creative Arts Camp at my home in Texas. In order to not miss any calls to the Rexford office of Shepherd's Staff, I have the phone there forwarding calls to my cell phone which now lives on my belt.

So when my trusty Blackberry shows 785 I answer Shepherd's Staff, this is Joan.

When It shows 817 I answer Hi this is Joan.

My friend Connie who is on our camp staff, arrived in Rexford a few weeks early and offered to "cover the bases" ie fax the bills to me each day as well as some other activities there. (Like putting out buckets where the two roofs now leak)

Today, I got a call from Eunice, a friend in Kansas who had happened to meet Connie who was shopping in her home town near by. Connie identified herself as a Staff person and Eunice in turn shared that she too was my friend. (Kinda like Face Book ).

Later in the day, Eunice called 785 , which rang at 692 and said "do you know Connie's cell phone number? She has left her purse at the store where we met and I have taken it to my house for safe keeping.

Now only the rarest cell phone rings in Rexford these days so I told Eunice I would email Connie that her purse had been found.

So I first tried to call 785 in hopes that Connie was in the office. However, 785 bounced back to 817. Then Connie got the hint and called me back.

"Hi Connie- are you in the office?"

"Yes,I'm sitting at your desk"

"Is your purse there?" I asked.

"Oh no, do you know where it is? I've looked frantically everywhere for it . It is full of my important identity stuff etc." How did you know I have lost it?"

"Oh I have lots of godly friends who care for me and the ministry of Shepherd's Staff," Eunice has your purse and here is her phone number and address. "

God takes care of His children, even when we lose stuff! Even when we are scattered across the earth.

"For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His" ( II Chronicles 16:9 NAS)

Rain on the Just and the Unjust

Rain is wonderful except when it rains inside. The Bible says God sends rain on the just and the unjust. When it includes hail - great damage is done. Shepherd's Staff has multiple buildings including the Main Center and the Office building. Both of these must now have new roofs and quite a bit of interior damage repaired as well.(approx cost $33,000 )

As with most insurance coverage, after depreciation and deductables are taken off, there is a huge balance due.

We are trusting that some of our donors, friends and user groups will assist us in getting back in "the dry" as quicky as possible.

We have a week till the Gideons meeting, and two weeks before Creative Arts Camp begins.

Certainly we are hoping that another "downpour" won't occur before the new roofs can be installed.

We look forward to seeing this accomplished. Should you wish to assist, go to www.shepherdstaff.org.-Donate

Filled With Skill

Called to restore the Historic Philip Houston House at Shepherd's Staff as a personal retreat

Preparing the floor

Working in wood

The master tile setter

Skilfully papering a corner

When the chef calls - you better come !

Final trim pieces fits perfectly.

This is the easy step

"Then Moses said to...he has filled them with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship." Exodus 35:30

Here We Go Again

.

For many years my 95 year old mother would shout"Here We Go Again"as we piled into our van. Her enthusiasm was similar to a group of our friends who gained the tag the Six Month Bunch. About every six months they have headed from Texas to Rexford, Kansas to volunteer their skills at Shepherd's Staff.

Now their number has expanded and yes, "Here We Go Again" for another week of restoration work on an antique building.

These folks live out the message our Pastor shared this past Sunday on Agape Love.You know, the kind that comes only from the heart of God Himself and showers over His "sheep". This is the kind of Love that releases our time, energy and money for someone who is a stranger -- who will never thank us for our skinned knuckles, sore back or paint stained clothes that are a result of a project done for their behalf.

The guests at the Shepherd's Staff won't even know their name, but they will experience God's Love because the "sheep" have followed their Shepherd to do a good work of creating beauty in the middle of the prairie.

"He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." Psalm 23:2-3 NAS

Teens For Christ

Each second Saturday evening , Rexford Kansas comes alive! It's Teens For Christ night.

Coming from some eight rural communities, 150 or so teens arrive in force in church vans and leaders' cars.

They begin their evening at the Ranch House where the members of the Shepherd's Staff serve up burgers, choc. shakes, nachos, and fries. It's a bit awsome as all these guys burst in hungry at one time.

The happiest sounds in the world are giggles, laughter, and excited chatter as they renew friendships.

An hour later- they vanish to "Hiram Hall" across the street to enjoy fun skits, singing and a variety of activities . In October they have been known to have a pumpkin toss contest with group made launchers . Other months are planned to give maximum fun.

The heart of the evening is the time of spiritual challenge and encouragement to live their lives in the light of the example and teachings of the Lord.

Each summer they are involved in mission trips, helping others.

They are a most welcome group each month.

"Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom,teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:16

Tri-State Men

The Tri-State Men's group returned to Shepherd's Staff early this month. Coming from Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado they enjoyed renewing friendships of men from the multiple towns represented. They did enjoy the meals and never left the table hungry.

There was much laughter, kidding, story telling , reminiscing and singing, There is something gripping to hear a room full of men's strong voices, praising the Lord.! Time in the Word and in prayer was fruitful.

There were a few Pastors, many lay leaders, farmers, as well as new believers in attendance. As each one had opportunity to share their story, the whole group was encouraged and challenged.

One confessed he really had not wanted to come, but would "never want to miss another retreat." He was so glad his friend had persisted in his invitation.

No one left early in spite of the threat of snow . Shouts of "I'll see you soon"- "Next time"-"Bring your friends"-"Remember all are welcome" - were drowned out by pick-ups as they reluctantly headed for home.

"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things which you have herd from me in the presence of many witnesses, these entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." 2 Timothy 2:2

Praise in Gourd Art

We are delighted to welcom Kristin Johnson to our Creative Arts Camp staff. She will be teaching Gourd Art and other art projects to our campers June 14-19.

Kristin comments ," When I create Gourd Art I am praising Jesus. I start by incorporating a verse that has touched my life, then I spend endless hours creating simple designs around the words. "

"My profession is an Art Teacher. I tell my students when I give them a blank piece of paper that their fingers are like magic..what amazing things will happen with that piece of paper?

Or I look at a gourd and often imagine a bowl from the bottom, a vase from the top, and many beads from the middle. I wood burn the basic lines, cut the gourd apart with my knife, then clean out the innards. I spend lots of time carving and sanding each piece. Then I wood burn intricate designs inside and out of the gourd. My favorite technique for adding color is to use oil pastels. I color them on a paper, dip my brush in mineral spirits, then brush the color ." (Quote from the Etsy web page )

Doesn't that sound like great fun!!! And a wonderful gift for someone very special. This is sure to be a favorite class. Registration forms are available on the Shepherd's Staff web page.

As in the building of the Tabernacle - "the Lord has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold,silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship." Exodus 35:31-33 NIV

This Little Light

A brightly burning "candle" at Shepherd's Staff is the Creative Arts Camp offered each summer. It is a unique camping experience for kids 6-14 years old. We strive to highlight the enjoyment of performing through puppets, drama, music and signing. Other art activities include ceramics, art, and leather craft. Our campers are thus equipped to share these gifts with their home churches , friends and families- that is to let their little lights shine.

Each of us have gifts and talents, that need to be shared with others. Why else have them? Perhaps you think they are "little" or undeveloped? Step out and enrich the lives of others with your own uniqueness.

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" Matthew 5:14-16 NIV

The Sheep Follow the Shepherd

Last year my husband and I were invited to a new friend's home for lunch after church. What a delightful time this was as we enjoyed a delicious meal and their beautiful home. Outstanding to me was the open kitchen and the eye catching hand painted tiles above the countertop. Not only were they charming, but the tile setting was obviously done by a real craftsman. Almost every tile had to be cut specially, and the art work had been lovingly done by our hostess. Shepherd's and lambs always touch my heart.

The next summer our hosts and 23 others from our church travelled the 720 miles from our home town to Rexford,Kansas . The goal was to donate their time and talents in assisting with the renovation of the Center's latest project - the historic Philip Houston House. This house will become a part of the Shepherd's Staff conference center when work is completed.

After only a few hours working in the stripped down kitchen area, our friend exclaimed - "You know I have enough green tiles, shepherd tiles and lamb tiles to cover the counter area if you would like" !

The next week in church, she was telling me of the skilled tile setter that had installed the tiles in her kitchen. I asked his name and we were both surprised to learn he is our next door neighbor!!

And yes, he will be a great help after we set the cabinets in place in 2 weeks. One would think "Someone" had this in mind all along!.

When we "sheep" hear and follow our Shepherd's voice, He leads us in beautiful ways and to lovely places. He works all things together, in His time.

Quilting Retreat

This weekend these ladies enjoyed doing their favorite activities - quilting, enjoying good food and knitting their relationships at Shepherd's Staff. It was very appropriate that our collection of antique quilts hung in the Sea of Galilee Dining Room for them to enjoy.

The quilt pictured on the left was created by local ladies to celebrate the Centennial birthday of Rexford, Kansas. (1888-1988) . The other one pictured was pieced together from "friendship squares" - each lady embroidered her name in a square and others stitched them together to make the quilt.

At the end of each meal, the chatter and laughter softened and the whirl of their sewing machines soon filled the hall once more. The variety of the quilts reflected the creative gifts of each lady.

As I reflect on their time together, my thoughts go to how precious are the lives of our friends as our hearts are knit together with cords of joint experiences. Each one adds to the beauty of our life and strengthens us to develop our own gifts and interests and callings.

"But if we walk in the light, as HE is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." I John 1:7 NIV

A Good Samaritan Will Help Me

During a recent retreat at Shepherd's Staff one of our guests shared this account with us all.

He and his wife were returning from a day trip with a group of Senior citizens in a van. While they were stopped for gas, some of the travelers went into the convenience store while others remained in the van.

As they waited, a pick uptruck puled along side of them and two "grubby" looking guys got out to fill their gas tank. As the minutes went by, it was observed that they both seemed quite nervous - looking around frequently and finally pulling their truck up several feet forward.

As they did so, there appeared a small child in the bed of the truck , under a tarp. Only her head was sticking out.

Then quickly the two hopped back in the cab and sped away in the opposite direction the Seniors were going.

As soon as the group had all returned to the van and resumed their trip towards home, the leader could not shake his concern at the site of the child in the pick up. He called 911 and reported the suspicious nature of the event to the police.

A few hours later, he received a call from an officer, thanking him for his assistance and told him they had indeed investigated and found that the child in the back had been kidnapped, but was now safe.

He also reported that the little girl told him that she had just kept saying "A Good Samaritan" will help me" A Good Samaritan will help me" to the abductors. She said once more to the officer, "I knew a Good Samaritan would help me."

The reason the men had become so alarmed at the gas station became evident. The name printed on the side of the van was GOOD SAMARITAN ASSISTED LIVING.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." And again He said "From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise."

Welcome to Prairie Candle Reflections

Welcome to PRAIRIE CANDLE REFLECTIONS - keeping alive a flickering rural history, with its values and strengths, its stories and its uniqueness.

26 years ago the "Candle" of the work of Shepherd's Staff Conference Center was first lit on the Kansas prairie. Since then its light has been touching lives and warming relationship.

"If the walls could only talk" - well perhaps they now can with this new voice on the internet.

I look forward to sharing reflections in the days ahead, of insights gained watching and listening to the events at Shepherd's Staff. Joan

"You are my lamp, O Lord, the Lord turns my darkness into light" 2 Samuel 22:29