Monday, November 14, 2011

Orphan Sunday

Yesterday was nationwide orphan sunday. I love the fact that there are many others out there that are in pursuit of orphans as well (or have already adopted) and that orphans are recognized in the church. We got the share in 1 of Lakeview's sunday schools about our story and what God is doing in our family.

Still trusting for about $2000 just to begin the homestudy! God is good and we know that whenever He calls and commands, He always provides. Our faith muscles continue to grow!

It's beginning to look a little like Christmas!

We started putting up the tree yesterday. The boys are having fun with it. Micah is a good helper. He "hooks" the ornament for me and hangs the low ornaments for me. Elijah was a little scared of it.

I'm praying that the boys would see through all the glitter and bows and see Jesus. That's what it's all about. Not the presents (although they are fun). As Jesus works through me, they get a glimpse of what a relationship with Jesus is all about. "Life is but a breath." Our lives are so short here on this earth. I am determined to live my life with no regrets for Jesus.

In the DR Congo, the average ANNUAL salary is ~$250. That's less than $1 per day. I cannot even imagine what life would be like. I have kept that number in mind as I do my christmas shopping.

-Anticipating

Lies from the enemy

We have an enemy here on this earth that wants to do everything in his power to deter us from believing God's promises and doing God's work. But I'm so thankful that Jesus has defeated our enemy and we are victorious in Jesus!!! Fear is not from God. He has not given us the spirit of fear. As Micah says, "Jesus is gonna win the fight when He throws satan in the lake of fire!"

Adoption is such a battle for lost souls of children. Satan has such a stronghold in these dark places around the globe where MILLIONS of kids are orphaned.

Some lies that the enemy is trying to make me believe about adopting...
-This isn't really what God wants you to do.
-God didn't really say to take care of the Fatherless
-God will not provide for you.
-There are better ways to use your time and money.
-It doesn't matter that there are 143 million orphans in the world.
-There's no way you can do this. It's too much of a burden.
-Just take the easy road. Don't be radical for Jesus.

I will say no to his lies. The enemy is wrong. The Victor is living in me!

-Anticipating

Sunday, October 30, 2011

how sweet it is

Married 5 years!!!
October 28, 2006



our support raising process

We feel like God has called us not just to the ministry of adoption, but to raising support. We are confident that God will provide ALL that we need for this adoption, which will be about $25,000 when all is said and done. Not because we are deserving. Not because we are "good" people. But because God is a big God. God is all about adoption. He's the best Daddy in all of Eternity. There's no one like Him. He will not command us, and then not provide. For many people, being generous is a joy. It's not like pulling teeth. It's what many people love to do. We love to see God provide!

You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 corinthians 9:11

An orphanage in the democratic republic of congo (drc)

God has provided so far...
$500
$150
$150
$100

Taking baby steps...
Application fee ($250) paid!
***What we are trusting God for now: First payment before homestudy can begin ($2200)

why adoption? why international?

We've been asked this a lot. And it boils down to 1 thing: it's what God has told us to do! I can't explain it any other way.
Adoption is not for everyone. International adoption is not for everyone.
BUT we have been commanded to "look after the orphan and the widow" (James 1:18)
International adoption is the best way we can come up with to obey this command. All other doors have been closed for us.

Peripheral/secondary reasons for international adoption...
- As believers in Jesus and children of God, we have been adopted into God's family. When we were God's enemy, we were not included into His family. When we became born-again, we were adopted into God's family. Our adoption is only an overflow of joy for what God has done for us! God the Father is our Daddy!
- There are millions of orphans in the world- no family, no hope, many without clean water or food, no opportunity to hear the Good News.
- God has given us every grace that we need. He's given us the power we need. There is nothing that is impossible with God.
- When God commands, He doesn't leave us hanging out to dry, left to ourselves to figure it out. He gives us what we need to help us to obey.
- As far as why international, I think it also boils down to the fact that it's what God has called to. It's what we're most passionate about. It's how God has gifted me (Kim).

Micah and Elijah- 1 1/2 and 3 1/2

Monday, October 24, 2011

we're in!!!

I got word tonight that we are officially accepted by Lifeline and in the adoption process!!! I can't believe it. We've been talking about it for so long, I can't believe the time has arrived. I wonder about the child that God has for... has he/she even been born yet? What's going on with the biological Mother and Father?  Boy or girl? So many questions at this point. God knows. He has the perfect one picked out for us already :)

Also, we are celebrating our 5 year anniversary! What a sweet anniversary gift from the Lord!

-Anticipating