Well we really don't have any major updates. Our friends, two different families that are working with our attorney, are on board. We are all expecting and praying for at least 2 little Marshallese girls and one little boy this year. We are so excited that each of our children will have friends at church that look like them! Joel spoke with our attorney a few weeks ago. She said we would have a baby this calendar year. No mention of this summer so we are, at least, not anticipating a baby during the hectic schedule of summer. This is a tiny bit disappointing but at the same time, gives us more time to prepare, increase the adoption fund, apply for more grants and pray for our baby girl. It gives us more time to focus our attention on the three gifts God has already given us.
I've thought a lot about my role as a parent lately. Parenting is difficult even in the best situation. To teach and mold and inspire and encourage and train and discipline and shape a child is such an enormous responsibility. Joel and I are the ones God has given this responsibility to for Isaiah, Caris and Elijah and one day for Kaleyah Joy. I recognize so many failures along the way. I don't correct with a loving tone, I don't set a good example in some areas, I don't remember to follow up with everything I should, I don't give enough hugs.......and the list goes on and on. But one thing I do is love them with my whole heart. I would give anything to insure they are all happy and healthy. I would love to be able to protect them from the heartaches of this world. It is that realization that brings me back to my most important responsibility as a parent. Pointing them to Jesus. If I don't cook a well balanced meal, or I react harshly or I fail them as I do so often, if I point them to Jesus then I have given them the most important thing in the world. Not only am I to point them to Him, I am to lead them to Him as well. It is what they see in their Dad and I that will leave a spiritual legacy. It is our example they will follow or at least learn from. Thankfully, they have many Godly grandparents, Aunts/Uncles and church family to help us lead them to Jesus. But WOW! I have a lot of work to do in my own relationship with Jesus but He will help me. He will sustain me and He will forgive me when I fall short. He will give me what I need to give them what they need. Thank you LORD for loving me, a sinner and for blessing me with these children. May I point them and lead them to You!
