I know this blog is used most frequently in the summer weeks giving awesome updates of our teens in WAR and CLIMB camps, but in the “off season” allow me to share some thoughts once a month on the vision and mission of Remembrance Ranch.

We live in a chaotic world.  It’s a tough row to hoe for teenagers to figure out.  What is the best way to live wholesome and good lives?   The hurts and pains, the brokenness, and myriad of temptations are overwhelming for every young person.  Despite modern technology, engaged parents, and fresh school resources, we see struggling youth all around us.

Remembrance Ranch exists to shine light into darkness and hope into lives of despair.   Jesus was teacher of parables.  He compared the Kingdom of God to many things; a light on a hill, a miniscule mustard seed, a net fat with fish, a pearl in the shell, treasure chest in a field.  A good rabbi usually painted the highest and holiest truths in the hues and tones of earthen simplicity.

It strikes me, as I read the New Testament, that Jesus was even more creative.  In his stories and parables, he turned things inside out.  A hated Samaritan is the good guy, a dishonest steward is commended, and latecomers to work pocket the same paychecks as the early birds.  Jesus wants us to understand the cross-shaped life.  It is so different than the normal ways of this world.  In the grace and love of the Lord the dead live, the last are first, and weakness is strength.

This is a message teens need to hear.  It’s radically different than what their friends are telling them.   God’s saving truths are scandalous.   That’s why we keep the mission of Remembrance Ranch alive.   To offer a different way of living from the world.   The cross of Jesus changes everything for them.