"Cowfolk"

The smoke of that old cook fire,

With the wagons circled fine,

The cowboy food and fellowship,

Proud this tribe is mine.

The guitar softly strumming,

The poetry and song,

‘Bout horses, mules and cattle,

No doubt where we belong.

The helping hand and laughter,

The prayers when day is through,

The reverence for our country,

And trust in God so true.

The families and children,

Who teach the cowboy way,

Upholding all our values,

And all that I can say,

These cowboy reunions,

Amarillo, Abilene,

Or right here in Cowtown,

And if you’ve never seen,

Next time when we gather,

Block out the time and go,

I promise you’ll enjoy it,

Just something that I know.

Give me those good people,

And let me tell you this,

The cowfolk all will be there,

And you don’t want to miss.

“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us…” (1 Peter 2:12, NIV)

We live in a dark world. We might even be tempted to think that there aren’t any good people left. But among our country’s ranching families you can still find love for God and country and an adherence to old-fashioned morality. People still keep their word, help their neighbors, and find time to worship God. No, you certainly don’t have to be part of this community to know, love and follow the Lord. God’s people are everywhere, and He is willing to use anyone who cooperates with His grace. But rural America is still a stronghold of righteousness that gives hope to many of us.

Lord, help us to live our faith everyday, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Alfredo Rodriguez, used by permission. Thanks, Alfredo, and God bless you.