16 years ago

I was 11 years old when Daddy died… that was back in 1994. That Christmas, a beautiful golden cross appeared on the moutainside directly behind my house near #2 canyon. I had never seen it before but was in awe because it so reminded me of the golden cross my dad often wore before his passing. He had a fantastic relationship with Jesus and introduced me to him.

Seven years later, my husband and I were getting married. The night before the wedding we walked out of the basement of our church, which overlooked the valley, and I saw that shining reminder on the hill.

I can no longer count the number of times that beacon has brought me to joy-filled tears to my eyes. As I plunged into the vast unknown of college, of ministry, of facing the struggles that God has allowed in our lives… that beacon has been a tool that God has used to remind me to look up, see the stars who declare his faithfulness and to be of good cheer.

Now, my niece who is 9 has even ridden up to the cross to light it.. what an amazing turn-around from helping me through the grieving of my father to the joy of celebrating the birth of my niece… Thank you to everyone that has ever helped to keep this cross lit as a beacon of hope. Thank you to Randy Smith for being obedient in the idea.

Thank you… 123