Life from Death

On this fine spring morning, I gaze out at my mares and my gelding grazing peacefully on the bright green pasture. My mind wanders back to a day when life was not so peaceful. Four years ago, on April 21st. A day when a wrecking ball crashed into our lives, and my heart was shattered into a million pieces. The day that our son, Zachary, relapsed on Meth and took his own life in a moment of desperation. A day when Grief moved into my soul, evicting any joy that dwelt there.  We were a broken family. To me, a future without this generous, humorous, lovable young man seemed not worth living.

Yet, I knew there was One who understood our pain. I spent many days on my face before God, weeping, uncertain how to move on. God became our Healer in a way we had never experienced. His Words were our Hope, his presence was our healing (and continues to be until this day). Most importantly, He assured us that Zach was at peace, and he would use our pain and loss to bring life and hope to other people struggling with addiction.

So, out of the ashes of our grief, Yah Rapha Farm emerged. A place of love and new life, hope and healing. Where people who struggle with addictions and their families can be encouraged on their journey. A place to encounter gentle horses, playful goats, cheeky chickens, and friends who care.  A place with quiet, restful spaces, where one can encounter Yah Rapha, the Healer… the Life Giver…the Hope Dealer.

I have peace as I watch my horses run across the field. God's healing continues in my heart, and His Love for those seeking freedom from the pain and destruction of addiction empowers us to keep serving others here at Yah Rapha Farm.