Joy on the Ranch, Tears in the Valley

What better treat for having finished up the elections with true grit and determination — than to be in Alto, Texas. Aw — 62 beautiful acres called Epiphany Ranch. The name alone feels like a whisper from Heaven. A place for respite. Healing. Encouragement.

My Staci and Larry built more than homes, a lodge, fences and barns here. They built space for souls to breathe.

We’re gathering with them — and with the newly-weds — my granddaughter Alexia and her husband Winston. Nearly five months of marriage already. Newlywed glow still shining. Love still fresh and bright.

And yet — woven into our joy is a quiet ache.

Theirs (and mine) — the faithful Australian Shepherd, Buddy, is nearing his finish line. Oh, what a companion he has been.

I remember those Frisco days when he stayed with me — loyal eyes, steady presence, tail wagging like he owned the place. Our walks — my guard and protector. Buddy has had a way of loving without complication. And saying goodbye never feels easy.

At the same time, the world feels loud. Nations at war. Headlines heavy. Tension rising.

How do we celebrate on a ranch while the world wrestles in conflict?
Maybe the answer is this — life has always held both.

Romans 12:15 says: “Rejoice with those who rejoice — mourn with those who mourn.”

Sometimes we do both in the same week. Sometimes in the same breath.

Jesus stood at a wedding feast and turned water into wine. And He stood at a grave and wept.

Joy and sorrow are not enemies. They are companions on this side of eternity.

While the world shakes, we hold tighter to what is steady.
“The LORD sits enthroned over the flood.” (Psalm 29:10)

He reigns over ranch land and battle lines. Over wedding rings and worn-out paws. Over laughter on the porch and tears in the night.

So this week, I will hug my family a little longer. I will celebrate young love. I will scratch behind familiar ears while I still can. And I will pray — for peace in our homes and peace in our world.

Because even when life feels mixed — joy and sorrow braided together — God remains constant.

And in Him, we find both comfort and hope.

“Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” Psalm 126:5