Twenty-Five Years of God's Faithfulness

July 2002

The month has finally arrived, and things are positively hopping here in Colorado Springs as Focus on the Family celebrates its 25th anniversary! I hope you and your loved ones will consider joining us for our "family reunion" celebration July 26 through 28. We're anticipating a significant turnout, but there is still room for more–so please honor us with your presence on this historic weekend! In fact, our 25th anniversary observance is packed with things for you and your kids to do and see, not just during July, but all summer long. We'd love to have you drop by and visit us any time between now and Labor Day. (And if you can't make it for the 25th anniversary, please come whenever you're able–there's always a lot going on here at Focus!)

I have mentioned previously that the theme of our celebration is "God's Faithfulness," and indeed, as we reflect on our journey thus far we are reminded time and again of how marvelous His blessing has been. Looking back on the joys and sorrows, the periods of elation and the times of discouragement, we can clearly see that the loving hands of our Heavenly Father have sustained us every step of the way. It is a humbling experience to be able to stand at this landmark in the ministry's history, giving thanks for the blessings of the past and looking forward to what God has in store for the future.

In commemoration of our silver anniversary, we've produced a wonderful coffee table book titled Focus on the Family: Celebrating Twenty-Five Years of God's Faithfulness. This large volume captures the exciting events of this past quarter-century in both pictures and words. To give you just a brief sample of what you can expect in this impressive book, I'm devoting the remainder of this letter to a special "sneak preview" of its images and text. Each one of these photographs, some of which have never been published before, is a testimony to God's goodness to Shirley and me and to the ministry of Focus on the Family over the years. Click on any of the photos to see a full-size version and caption. Enjoy!

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Having presented a few images from the book, I'd be remiss if I neglected to say a heartfelt "thank you" to those of you who have prayed for us and supported us with your friendship and finances over the years. This "family album" is as much yours as it is ours! Flipping through its pages, we are prompted to praise the Lord for all the friends whom He has brought alongside us.

This book was actually created with two distinct purposes in mind. First, as I have already mentioned, our earnest desire is to proclaim God's faithfulness by taking a look back at the past 25 years and capturing a little piece of Focus history. But beyond that, we want to give our friends an opportunity to take part in this historic event in a way that will be both meaningful to them and helpful to the ministry. By requesting your own copy of this beautiful coffee table book, you will not only be catching a unique glimpse of the work that is made possible by your support, you will also be assisting the ministry at a particularly critical time. Please allow me to explain.

Unfortunately, the occasion of our 25th anniversary coincides with one of the more serious economic shortfalls we have experienced in a while. In fact, a recent analysis of our financial outlook has revealed a "flattening" of our income stretching back at least three years. Although I am loath to do it, particularly during this season of celebration, may I ask that you consider making a donation to the ministry if you feel so led? I realize that funds are tight for many of you, and that an additional charitable contribution might not be feasible at this time. However, if you have met your obligation to your local church and feel that you might be able to pass along a gift of any amount to Focus on the Family, we would be most appreciative. Either way, we know that God is in control of the situation, and that He will provide us with the means to carry on if it is His will for us to do so.

Despite our current financial concern, we are optimistic about the future and we look forward to defending the family and promoting the principles of righteousness as the Lord enables. We're eternally grateful to those of you who have kept us moving forward through your prayerful support, in much the same way that Aaron and Hur held up Moses' arms while in the heat of battle (Exodus 17). Whether you've been a friend of Focus for the past 25 years or you've come to know us only recently, may our Heavenly Father richly bless you for standing with us.

Sincerely,

James C. Dobson, Ph.D.
President