FPF Goals + Achievements: If you build it… They will come — Matt Ernster
“If you build it, they will come.”
This is from the movie Field of Dreams. But here, we're not just building a field of dreams; we’re witnessing a gym of dreams taking shape. This gym, which will serve as a space for physical activities, community events, and spiritual growth, is a field coming to life and gates in place to ensure safety and protection. We're all part of this exciting journey, and our progress is genuinely inspiring.
We don’t have to look far to see evidence of fall in the form of progress all around us, from foliage turning bright golds, reds, and oranges to crisp, fresh air and even rain indicating we’re in a new season of gratitude abounding, whether in the form of a gym, a field, or gates.
Progress is defined as 1) forward or onward movement toward a destination and 2) development, advancement, or improvement toward a goal.
As fall progresses, so is the overwhelming evidence of God’s goodness and His hand upon the various projects in and around the Firmly Planted Homeschool Resource Center.
As I write this, our warehouse is becoming a gym where lives will transform, marriages will be restored, and identities in Christ will be grounded. We're not just witnessing progress; we're eagerly anticipating the future. From bouncing a basketball, bumping, setting, and spiking a volleyball, striking a pickleball, scoring a wrestling takedown, Trail Life and American Heritage Girls activities, marriage conferences, workshops, and the like, we're eagerly looking forward to the day when these activities will fill our gym with life and joy.
Our west-facing field has the more prominent rocks removed and rototilled, and we’re patiently and proactively waiting to disperse dirt before grass can take root to give our children and families space to run through the grass and play soccer.
With progress, there also needs to be some cautionary eyes and ears in tune with the culture. We cannot knowingly stop all evil around us; however, we thank the Lord as we recently put gates in place to protect this incredible building and, even more importantly, the 914 children and over 400 families entering through the center's doors. One thing is evident: we’re coming before Jesus, overflowing with gratitude as we progress with open hands and a willingness to be a part of what He is building, and He has chosen us to be part of what He is creating. We heed the words from Psalm 127:1 that read, “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.
We're not just building a gym; we're building a community. And you, our dear members and potential donors, are not just a part of this community; you are integral to it. Your support, whether through prayers or financial contributions, is invaluable. We eagerly anticipate investing in finishing the gym floor, adding long-term basketball hoops, and putting the finishing touches on the field, and we couldn't do it without you. Together, we're making a difference, and your role in this journey is crucial.
Now, let’s play ball!
“Coach” Matt Ernster
Campus Chaplain | Safety Coordinator | Director of Higher Education (Dual Enrollment) | Wrestling Coach
Progress being made with our gym floor installation.
Our field is coming along!