13May 07
Excellent Work
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Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house (Proverbs 24:17). Last weekend, this verse was very applicable as the whole family ventured out on a 3 day camping expedition to Culpeper. Our land is in need of much preparation as we continue moving forward with plans to move out there one day.
Each person fulfilled a different part in order to make the venture a success. First was Dad’s decision to spend the weekend out there (the potential of rain and wind didn’t deter). Mom and her menu planners put together a scrum-dilly-licous meal plan while everyone else packed the van and truck with camping gear and tools (both constructive & destructive).
Saturday morning came bright and early. The heavy dew, beautiful sunrise, cheery birds, and a babbling creek culminated in a perfect setting for devotions. Daniel even thought an orchard oriole may of flown by him. Mom put 
together a rowsing meal of Eggs, Potatoes, and Apple Sauce with oatmeal, yogurt, and an unexpected box of donuts – a real farmer’s breakfast! Energized for the day, work began.
Dad bushhogged most of the day while Daniel, Matthew, and 
I with the help of Kenan, Adam, Sarah, and Markie cleared over 1/4 mile of fence line. Thorns seem to have an uncanny way of growing all around fences 
. This required a great deal of team work. Dad mowed the overgrowth down real close to the fence. Matthew took our metal bladed weedwacker along the base of all the brush. Adam & Sarah cut away with clippers. Kenan chopped 
up tangled vines with the hedge trimmers and finally Daniel & I removed the dislodged debree with grass whackers. Markie chipped in whenever he was called and kept spirits high with his joy and energy. Great work, team!
Sunday was a day of rest, but in reality a day of excellent work. Dad lead us in an unusual time of worship by having each one share a verse of Scripture that they felt pertained to the land along with 
a prayer. This was done as we walked along Dad’s freshly cut paths around a good part of the land. Verses shared included 
Isaiah 58:11-12, Psalms 15, Isaiah 51:3, Deuteronomy 26:15, Proverbs 27:27, and more. I appreciate Dad’s leadership in seeking first the Kingdom of God. How easy it is to distract ourselves from the excellent while doing the ‘good’ things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the profitable and relationship-building trip you had to your land! Your family is like the dedicated Israelites who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem and accomplished much because “…the people had a mind to work.” (Neh. 4:6)!
JOshua, thanks for putting it in proper perspective. Working on the Land is good, yet make sure it’s not for selfish purpose but for God’s honor and glory.
Quick! delete the picture of the green car and it’s driver. What would the Police say if they saw it? I’m writing this for your good and safety. You know she has no lisence and is uninsured. Hurry before it’s to late!
It’s great to see the entire family working together. It brings back many memories of working on a farm. Your all inspire me…God bless the work of your hands…have fun!!
I really enjoyed your post. That must have been so much fun. With every body diligently working to gather you must have gotten a lot done! “Many hands make light work”!
“Country living at its best”!
Gotta love it. That picture’s good enough to make Country magazine. Great report, Josh!