Low Commodity Prices? Make This a Year of Strategic Ministry

Many young entrepreneurial families want an opportunity on the farm. Could now be the time to give them an opportunity?

In times of low commodity prices, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But what if we could turn these challenges into opportunities? Could low prices be the stimulus for something greater? In my recent article for the FCFI Profit Magazine, I discussed how this season could open doors to higher-value crop production—a strategic shift that could transform how we farm and minister. While this shift may not solve every problem, it offers a potential path forward for many. Those who succeed could lead the way, offering tested systems and models that others can follow.

That’s where programs like Farm Planner come in—helping people navigate this transition. By connecting farmers with entrepreneurs, especially from urban communities seeking a different lifestyle, we could empower people to work with their hands and experience the benefits of higher-value crops. Urban youth could gain invaluable work ethic training in market gardens, with the potential to intern or apprentice on a farm once the groundwork is laid.

However, this shift requires a commitment to ministry and a willingness to embrace complexity. Value addition—such as local processing or cooperative processing—becomes possible when more people are involved. Rural and urban churches might consider establishing incubator kitchens, where they could develop products and foster entrepreneurial spirit. These kitchens often have licensing potential, making them ideal for this transition.

In our nation, many individuals depend on government assistance, which can foster a culture of entitlement. But if we focus on revival, reformation, and community transformation, we can increase morality and productivity, reducing our trade imbalance. The answer to our economic challenges isn’t tariffs, but a strong workforce engaged in discipleship and biblical principles.

So, what is God calling you to do in this season? Can you be part of the transformation that is needed?

I recently received a call from Byron, an entrepreneur returning to farm life, and I couldn’t help but see his story as confirmation of what God had placed on my heart. Byron’s journey aligns with the vision I’ve been sharing: that we can use this challenging time to create something beautiful. There are many more like him—waiting for a chance to establish themselves on a farm, open doors to ministry, and generate income. Investing in these individuals can yield both spiritual and financial rewards.

Byron’s story and his resume exemplify the vision of strategic ministry during times of economic difficulty. Below is an excerpt from his resume and his personal journey, which I hope will inspire you to aspire to ministry strategically with your land. Now is the time to contemplate some strategic changes to your farming operation to make it more missional. To contact Byron or to talk strategy for missional outreach leveraging the stewardship of your farm or to work together to instill vision in others email me at dan@fcfi.org.

Byron’s Resume

Executive Summary

Experienced operations, strategy, and leadership professional with over 13 years of managing teams, departmental functions, and multimillion-dollar budgets across nonprofit and private sectors. Skilled in organizational oversight, financial management, and process improvement. Focused on supporting staff, streamlining systems, and aligning daily operations with broader mission, values, and strategic goals. Committed to servant leadership, operational efficiency, and long-term organizational stability.

Professional Experience

First Free Church, Ballwin, MO
Senior Director of Operations (May 2024 – Present)

FCC Environmental Services, Western Placer Waste Management Authority, Roseville, CA
Senior General Manager (May 2022 – April 2024)

Peoples Care, Inc, Sacramento, CA
District Manager (January 2018 – September 2018)

Anderson Center for Autism, Staatsburg, NY
Coordinator of Adult Residential Services (August 2017 – January 2018)

Byron & Alyssa – A Journey of Calling, Growth & Return

From an early age, I felt a pull toward strategy and systems—something about the challenge of bringing order to chaos stirred a passion within me. This journey began on a small farm in New York, where I worked long hours at Fishkill Farms, transplanting seedlings and selling produce in New York City. The work was physically exhausting, but it was the first time I truly felt alive. It was there that I saw the potential of farming, not just as a way to grow food, but as an art—a rhythm that could change lives.

Over the years, I’ve applied these lessons in various leadership roles, helping to turn around organizations and build new programs. I’ve watched God work in miraculous ways—turning impossible situations into opportunities. From managing waste facilities and rescuing them from financial ruin to discipling individuals in difficult circumstances, I’ve seen the transformative power of God’s leadership in action.

At every turn, God has used my hands and mind to restore broken systems. But as I’ve grown, I’ve come to realize that my deepest call is to serve through farming—not just as a livelihood, but as a lifestyle of discipleship. My wife Alyssa and I are being drawn back to the land. We want to raise our family where the soil beneath our feet is part of our daily rhythm, and where we can create something lasting for God’s Kingdom.

Alyssa brings peace and wisdom wherever she goes—whether she’s ministering to children, elderly neighbors, or grieving families. Together, we feel called to steward our gifts through farming, not for comfort or prestige, but for a deeper purpose. We believe in the value of simplicity, rhythm, stewardship, and tangible work. We are excited about the potential to grow not only crops, but lives—as we serve God’s Kingdom through every harvest.

Conclusion: Embrace the Opportunity

As you reflect on Byron’s story, consider how God might be calling you to embrace this moment of challenge. Could your farm or business become a place of both income generation and ministry? Trust that God can bring both abundance and purpose in this season. When we fix our eyes on Him, we can experience His peace and clarity, even in times of uncertainty.

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” – Isaiah 26:3

This is a time of transformation—let it begin with you.