One purpose

"Therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort provided by love, any fellowship in the Spirit, any affection or mercy, complete my joy and be of the same mind, by having the same love, being united in spirit, and having one purpose." (Phlp 2:1-2)

These were the words I read today from my pastor. It's his birthday and this was his birthday request from his flock. I immediately thought of our new friends. This group of people, from different backgrounds, at completely different stages in life, brought together on this journey of adoption.

We had a potluck the other night and 5 of the 8 families were able to attend. Upon arriving and greeting others as they arrived, I felt a sense of belonging and genuine affection and concern for each person. I am so blessed to be a part of this group and I continually thank the Lord for bringing us into this place.

We celebrated Sunday night as one family shared their story of receiving their referral and picture of the child they would soon bring home. The joy and awesomeness of it all gave me goosebumps immediately and a lasting realization that this is really really happening, and soon each family will have their own referral, and better yet, will have made the trip, and we will all be together with our newest family members. We talked about such a time on Sunday night......we all smiled at the thought of being together to celebrate such a work of God......we talked about how big our group is going to be when all is said and done (almost 50)......we shared our concerns of the unknown......and we laughed at stories that were shared. The memories themselves brings a smile to my face.....it's just going to keep getting better.

All this because we are like minded, united by the Spirit, and have the same purpose in this decision to adopt.

I am overwhelmed at the goodness of the Lord. Back in November, Bruce and I were talking about financing this adoption and came to the realization that God would have to intervene in a mighty way. We completely believed He could and would do this. We discussed the possibility of using whatever money we received back from taxes to further our process. Well, we found out yesterday that the amount of money we will get back will cover the next 4 steps!!!!!! It's amazing, and wonderful, and so God-like to fill a need so specifically requested. I kept praying it would be enough for these specific steps and it is. Why this continues to amaze me, I don't know. I do know that He is a God that fulfills His plans. We believe wholeheartedly that this adoption is a part of His plan and that He will continue to provide.

We continue to pray for all the children in the orphanage, the families involved, the nannies, cooks, guards, and the family there overseeing the whole project. We are so thankful!