Thursday, October 07, 2010

lately



Two weeks can fly by. Life around here has been busy. This week I had an interview with a international social worker about our upcoming adoption. Next week, she will visit our home and check things out, interview the boys, etc. After that, she will compile our 3rd home study update and then we will submit that paperwork to our agency in America. Then, our plan is to enroll in the Waiting Child program for children with special needs.

So much has changed since we first began this journey towards adoption. After years of getting our hopes up...and only being disappointed by delays and prolonged wait times, it would suffice to say that we are contently trusting God's timing for this beloved little girl. I can still remember early conversations with family and friends. That seems like forever ago. The reality is, we could have her...soon (as in months, and not years).

And yes, I am ready to see little pink dresses around this place. I'm ready to see three big brothers love the sister they've prayed for during the past couple years. I'm ready for her grandparents to hold her. I'm ready for April to have a little girl to hold and love. I'm ready too. It's fair to say, we are pregnant with desire.

So if you have never considered adoption, please, please do so. Current estimates hold the number at 200 million orphans worldwide. You can make a difference. If it's not adopting a child, then maybe get to know a family who has and see how you can help them. Go to a local orphanage and ask how you can help. Sponsor a child.

Earlier this spring, I was in Chengdu, China and I remember holding a precious little girl. She was born with some deformities. A family in Texas was in the process of adopting her. I remember thinking about her parents and how eager they must be to have her in their arms. She's probably with them now. I hope so.

I think about our daughter -- where is she? Has she been born? Is someone holding her now? I think about this --- and immediately think about the Gospel. That God loved me before I was born. That He purchased me with His blood before I could love Him or serve Him or know Him. That He had plans for me, hopes for me, thoughts of me -before I was ever alive. Incredible. Humbling. Grace is awakening in our hearts, all over again.

6 comments:

Megan Weimer said...

We are praying for sweet Anna Grace and that her arrival is soon! Keep us updated!!

Kim said...

Beautiful.

malorie said...

I can not wait to meet Anna Grace.

(and please tell Josh to stop growing so fast!)

Blanca Cobain said...

such a nice entry :)

Will said...

great news! we cannot to one day meet Anna Grace.

Ericka B. Jackson said...

Matt this brought tears to my eyes. I am SO excited for you guys and can't wait until you have sweet Anna Grace in your arms! I still remember when you first announced you would adopt. I remember when IC came to Auburn and you prayed for God to burden the hearts of His people to adopt. The prayers you prayed that night and the example you and April have set definitely moved my heart towards adoption. We are looking forward to international adoption one day - I cannot wait for God to reveal the details in His timing! Love ya'll so much!