Adoption began to make its way into our hearts when several couples adopted a few years back. As we prayed for them, we recognized that God might be one day calling us to join in caring for the many orphans of this world. David and I have prayed that when the time came, God would make it clear to us. Little did I ever imagine He would bring 3 children into our lives at once! Isn't that just the way--selling God short?
We hosted Alona and Makc from the Ukraine this summer for six weeks. While they were here, we learned they have a 5-year-old sister, Natasha. Makc and Alona are precious children. Before they came to us, I continually prayed that their hearts would still be soft and open despite their harsh reality. Wow! Did God answer my prayers. It was nothing short of amazing to see how tender their hearts were and how well-adjusted they were. They enjoyed their time being a part of our family, and our family loved having them. There were certainly times when it was so hard, particularly for me and our middle son Max. Is change ever not hard? Even during those times, there was a real joy and peace of knowing we were pleasing God with our efforts. After the first 2 or so weeks, our entire family was in love with them. They integrated into our family in such a beautiful way. Our hearts were stretched and I believe our faith grew during those 6 short weeks. After Makc and Alona left, our 3 children, Keely, Max, and Isabelle miss them and have shared that they felt like they were a part of our family.
The reason to adopt for us is simple. We were once lost, afflicted and spiritually poor. God chose to call us and woo us, rescuing us. Our lives were remarkably changed. We realize that God chooses to rescue Makc, Alona and Natasha as well. He's giving us the opportunity to join Him. What a blessing!
There have been many small and big confirmations that have led us here. I won't take your time to share all of them, but know this was not a quick decision for us. We recognize that the world would say we are crazy...lack of money, time, etc. etc. We have seen firsthand that our God is so much bigger than all of that! As He has called us, He will provide. We also recognize there are going to be hard days ahead, but freedom lies in saying "yes" to God. Our children are going to see and participate in being the hands and feet of Jesus. What better life lesson is there?
Currently we're praying, starting some family counseling to prepare our family for the changes, and waiting for God to provide the initial $10,000 to start the paperwork.
If you have questions, please leave a comment. This blogging thing is new to me, but I will try to respond to comments and answer questions, as well as keeping you up-to-date with all God is doing.
With love, Jenny
We hosted Alona and Makc from the Ukraine this summer for six weeks. While they were here, we learned they have a 5-year-old sister, Natasha. Makc and Alona are precious children. Before they came to us, I continually prayed that their hearts would still be soft and open despite their harsh reality. Wow! Did God answer my prayers. It was nothing short of amazing to see how tender their hearts were and how well-adjusted they were. They enjoyed their time being a part of our family, and our family loved having them. There were certainly times when it was so hard, particularly for me and our middle son Max. Is change ever not hard? Even during those times, there was a real joy and peace of knowing we were pleasing God with our efforts. After the first 2 or so weeks, our entire family was in love with them. They integrated into our family in such a beautiful way. Our hearts were stretched and I believe our faith grew during those 6 short weeks. After Makc and Alona left, our 3 children, Keely, Max, and Isabelle miss them and have shared that they felt like they were a part of our family.
The reason to adopt for us is simple. We were once lost, afflicted and spiritually poor. God chose to call us and woo us, rescuing us. Our lives were remarkably changed. We realize that God chooses to rescue Makc, Alona and Natasha as well. He's giving us the opportunity to join Him. What a blessing!
There have been many small and big confirmations that have led us here. I won't take your time to share all of them, but know this was not a quick decision for us. We recognize that the world would say we are crazy...lack of money, time, etc. etc. We have seen firsthand that our God is so much bigger than all of that! As He has called us, He will provide. We also recognize there are going to be hard days ahead, but freedom lies in saying "yes" to God. Our children are going to see and participate in being the hands and feet of Jesus. What better life lesson is there?
Currently we're praying, starting some family counseling to prepare our family for the changes, and waiting for God to provide the initial $10,000 to start the paperwork.
If you have questions, please leave a comment. This blogging thing is new to me, but I will try to respond to comments and answer questions, as well as keeping you up-to-date with all God is doing.
With love, Jenny
