03/26/2026
Standing in the Gap
If you’ve ever spent time at the farm—or even looked at photos from our programs—you’ve likely noticed something special about Mini and Ellie. They are almost always together. They lean on each other for support and reassurance. When they enter the arena separately, it doesn’t take long before they check in with one another, as if to say, “I’m still here.”
They remind us of the kind of friendship we all long for—someone who stands beside us, supports us, and helps shield us from the hard or uncomfortable moments of life.
The other day during Herd Qualities, I observed a group of middle school students. Many of them were drawn to Ellie and wanted to partner with her. They were patient. They tried their best. But Ellie wasn’t ready. Whether she was feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or simply not up for it, we don’t know—but what we do know is this: she needed space.
What stood out most was Mini.
Mini, who doesn’t always seem to enjoy participating on a lead line, stepped in. She physically placed herself between Ellie and the students, offering herself instead. It was as if she understood exactly what her friend needed. Mini willingly partnered with a student, walked through the obstacle course, and responded to every request—while Ellie stayed safely in the corner, simply observing.
In that moment, Mini lived out the truth found in Galatians 6:2:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Mini didn’t remove Ellie’s feelings. She didn’t force her to engage. She simply stepped in and carried what she could—so her friend didn’t have to.
And it makes you wonder…
How often do we do the same for the people in our lives?
How often do we step between a friend and the weight they’re carrying—not to fix it, but to lighten it?
How often do we offer ourselves in a way that reflects the love of Christ?
Mini showed us that carrying someone’s burden doesn’t always look big or dramatic. Sometimes it looks like quietly stepping forward, offering your presence, and saying, “I’ve got this for now.”
May we all strive to be like Mini—
with hearts that are pure,
willing to serve,
and eager to reflect Christ’s love in the way we care for others.
