Can We Be Thankful In All Circumstances?

All Americans are thinking about Thanksgiving in some way, shape or form right now. As I type many are already traveling or preparing to travel. Turkeys are defrosting in fridges about to hit the oven, and people have already been going to purposely buy jelly beans this week ready to much them with popcorn during their annual tradition of watching "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" with the fam.

We're all "Thanksgiving saturated right now", but how many of us truly, myself included were actually going to spend some honest time being thankful, and on top of that taking time to thank God himself for all His blessings? If it's "just about the turkey" we're surely missing it.

Maybe we can be thankful this week, after all we're having some yummy dishes and hanging with family, but what about the other times in our lives when the Bible says, "Give thanks in all circumstances..."

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

-1 Thessalonians 5:18

I've honestly struggled with that, because there's been too many times to count that I have not felt very thrilled about life and my circumstances. I haven't honestly felt very thankful. If I'm honest I've lived plenty like I'm cursed, not blessed!

I think of these verses too:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

-Philippians 4: 6-7

So, that is easier said than done! We were introduced through our church to the little book, "Joyful Journey". This book said, "When we give thanks, gratitude becomes the vehicle through which we become aware of the presence of Immanuel, the God who is always with us. Gratitude  in the middle of difficulties allows us to have [the recognition that God is present, is truly good and perseveres in doing good for us].

I pretty much understand it like this: when I come to God with thankfulness I take the focal point off me for a change, and regardless of what is going on around me I see and hear Him. I am reminded that He is with me in every second of my life. God's character can only be good. His love is pure and unfailing. Immanuel is with me in all circumstances. I can be thankful for His presence. Therefore, I can be thankful in all circumstances because He is with me, and the God who is with me is persevering in doing good for me.

When pain or struggles occur, the enemy speaks lies to us, wanting us to take our eyes off of Jesus towards our situation, and we lose sight of "God with us" [Immanuel]. Even in those tough moments we have the ability through Holy Spirit to turn our eyes back towards Jesus, and thank him in it because he has never, and never will leave us or forsake us.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

-Deuteronomy 31:6

Happy Thanks Giving!

Blessings,

Jason

Parenting and Life is NOT a 'Quick Fix'

Parenting is not some 'quick fix', 'new kid by Friday', 'Supernanny wraps it all into a neat little bow within the hour' kind of thing. I've often thought in the past that I must be a sore failure as a parent because my kids don't want to comply or act interested in something that interests me. I've learned that kids often are the first to raise their hand at church to help do something when asked by an adult, yet at home roll their eyes and 'huff and puff' when asked the same thing. That 'helpful and willing' kid that people see can be so disrespectful to mom or dad at home.

It's also interesting that as adults we too can be the same way. We lead kids at Sunday School in small groups with joy, patience and understanding, yet lose patience, yell and treat our own kids with disrespect. We treat 'difficult' or 'extra grace required' people we come into contact with with patience, yet 'bite the head off' of our spouse with one little misunderstanding or comment.

Maybe you, like me, often feel like a hypocrite because we've messed up or failed because we yell, scream or say things to our closest ones at home, yet act 'sweet as pie' at church or work. Maybe part of it is that we can 'let our guard down' at home, and just let the REAL emotions, fears, worries and feelings come out around those who we are the most vulnerable to. It's not an excuse to treat those we love badly, but I believe I'm not the only one who feels this way.

I'm not saying these things so we can pat ourselves on the back and be okay with our sins, but so that we can receive encouragement knowing that this life isn't easy, and we are not 'the only one' feeling this way. Most importantly we recognize that as Christ followers we are not meant to be perfect. If we hold ourselves to the 'perfect standard' we will always feel like a royal failure. Jesus gives us His grace DAILY. Maybe His plan is for us to always be in a place of feeling like 'we don't have it all together' so that we daily come to Him with hands of surrender saying 'LORD, I don't feel equipped or able to handle this', so that we make a declaration in a prayer of desperation that we NEED HIM.

 ^"Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence,

so that we may receive mercy and find grace

to help us in our time of need."  --Hebrews 4:16

Aren't we supposed to be in a place of utter reliance and being in need of Him? Maybe God's plan was for me to be a parent (Whether it's one or nine kids) to teach me about grace, forgiveness, selflessness and trust. It doesn't feel 'peachy' a lot of the time, and I need to get rid of the 'quick fix parenting' or 'quick fix marriage' mindset. Life isn't a 'quick fix'. Life is a life long process of grace, patience, healing, forgiveness and trust, and it certainly isn't 'wrapped up into a pretty bow' by Friday. But, in the midst of the crazy I can truly know peace and joy, because I KNOW He holds me, and I do have a real hope. Not a 'blind hope', but a real hope in the provision, care, direction, leading and blessings from God when I walk in trust and obedience to His word.

"Rejoice always,  pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."  --1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

-Jason

I Need Thee Every Hour - Annie S. Hawks (1872)

I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.

Refrain
I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;
Every hour I need Thee;
Oh, bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee.

I need Thee every hour, stay Thou nearby;
Temptations lose their pow’r when Thou art nigh.

I need Thee every hour, in joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide, or life is vain.

I need Thee every hour; teach me Thy will;
And Thy rich promises in me fulfill.

I need Thee every hour, most Holy One;
Oh, make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son.

The Way I Should Be

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

-Romans 12:12

 

Our true character is shown in the day to day things of life. Wow, my character isn't always great - I'm too often living on the emotions of life's ups and downs of the roller coaster of life rather than being consistent, so I have a lot of work to do.  Maybe you do too.  I believe though that we have a patient and gracious heavenly Father who loves us the same no matter which way the wind is blowing.  So, we may not always live up to Romans 12:12, but we are called to it, and we are not alone - we have the Holy Spirit. When I do live up to it I can be a good reflection of Jesus.

"Joyful in hope"
What would real joy look like in my life?  Smiles, peace, contentment, kindness, gentleness, blessing others.  It is having these things knowing God is in control, even midst the uncertainties of life.  Hope in God looks like trust and obedience.

"Patient in affliction"
When things don't go well - when we suffer, we are called to have patience.  What does this look like?  Quiet faithfulness!  Trust.  Waiting faithfully on God, knowing that He can make good come out of any situation, and He will deliver us from it.

"Faithful in prayer"
Not knowing what is ahead we are called to pray.  Being consistent in our conversation with God.  Being dedicated and persistent in prayer.  Being committed to praying.  Never giving up.  Sometimes we hang by a thread to God, but prayer is all we have, so starting somewhere is better than not talking to God at all.  We also have confidence that God cares for us and He listens - He is always there.

My prayer today:
"Father God, there's a lot of stuff in this very short verse.  Help me to remember it, and to live it out every day.  I need you Holy Spirit to fill my life, to help me and guide me.  I need you Holy Spirit to strengthen me and keep me in check - ALL THE TIME!  Guide me, help me to remember God's Word.  Help me to speak when I need to speak.  Help me to be quiet when I need to be quiet.  Give me the words to say, and may I be faithful with the gifts and abilities you have given me.  In Jesus' name, Amen."

-Jason

“I Have Come That They May Have Life”: You Can Make A Difference!

Jesus said: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;   I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."    

-John 10:10

The Wrights walking for life

Jesus is passionate about our souls 

There are many simple ways that we can make a huge difference in our world.  Simple ways we can affect change by BEING the Church, not just DOING Church, but it involves us GETTING involved in what is close to God’s heart.  We only have to read the context of the verse above to know how much God wants to love, nurture and care for us, and lead us in a close personal relationship with him. In John 10 in the Bible we see that Jesus is passionate about our souls.  If He is so passionate about our souls shouldn’t we be passionate about each other too?  Aren’t we called as the Body of Christ to reach out and love a broken and hurting world?

“For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.”

-Psalm 139:13-16 

The Church can passionately care

There isn’t a lot more that is broken and hurting than lives affected by abortion.  That’s why the church is rising up to support choices for life, rising up to say “Enough is enough”,  and rising up to the challenge of being in ministry for life in communities all across America.  Through life-affirming local ministries the church can passionately care for women and men faced with unplanned and crisis pregnancies.

These centers need our support and encouragement – they NEED our involvement!  One way we can take action, and is a great way to get the whole family involved from the youngest to the oldest is to participate in a “Walk For Life”. (Just like the hundreds of thousands marching in Washington DC today).  Many pregnancy crisis centers hold a walk annually to raise support and awareness in their communities.  This past Spring our whole family joined many people from different churches in our home town on the “Walk For Life” for our local pregnancy center -  LifeCare of Brandon (Tampa, FL area).  What a blessing to support life publicly and in unity as the Body of Christ.

Our family walking with other brothers and sisters in Christ for LIFE!

Roll up your sleeves and get involved

There are many other opportunities to volunteer and donate items to these amazing ministries year-round, such as counseling, administration, volunteer nurses, “Baby Boutique” items, volunteering for special fund-raising events, mentoring young men and women, leading Bible studies, and so on.  Get to know your local center, roll up your sleeves and get involved – your efforts will literally be saving lives!

-Jason

“…Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching the people to love,

but to use any violence to get what they want.

That is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion.”

- Mother Teresa

"Prepare For Battle!"

I'm a big fan of the battle at Minas Tirith in "The Return Of The King".  There's a particular scene that I like where the steward of Gondor, Lord Denathor, who is supposed to be the commander-in-chief of the entire army sees for the first time how huge the enemy army is and is obviously overwhelmed.  He orders the men:  "Abandon your posts. Flee, flee for your lives!" It shows his great weakness as a leader at a time where great strength and courage was needed for the biggest and most important battle for their city and country in all time. It starts to send the men into some confusion.

One of the story's heroes, Gandalf The White, hears Lord Denathor's ridiculous instructions and without debate on the matter takes Lord Denathor down (with the help from his staff) and re-orders the men with "PREPARE FOR BATTLE!"  He then quickly rides his horse through the city shouting to the soldiers "Return to your posts!"  The men move back into rank.  He then gives a command, "Send these foul beasts into the abyss!" to which the army start catapulting massive chucks of rock into the enemy lines and the battle of good versus evil continues.

OK, so there's a lot of testosterone involved in the movie, BUT I think that the reason why these movies are so popular and resonate with us as men is that deep inside of us we want to fight for what's right in our world, and we know that God has called His men to be fighters and protectors for others, especially those who cannot speak for themselves.

We often forget, or don't realize it at all, but we are very much in the middle of a massive spiritual battle every day.  As foster and adoptive parents we know this to be VERY REAL.  I mean, think of it this way - most of our kids were born into a situation where there wasn't a lot of hope.  The enemy (Satan) is already ticked off because their birth mom didn't choose abortion.  Then they were born.  Then he moves to 'Plan B' and did whatever he could in that situation to make sure that our children would remain a statistic of abuse or neglect, or caught in a destructive cycle with no hope of getting out.  The enemy was winning (Or so he thought).  Then our kids came into care, or were placed for adoption and now what the enemy had intended  for destruction and despair is now redeemed, restored, and this child is claimed in unconditional love.  Now he is REALLY ticked off!  So, he moves to 'Plan C'.  In this fight for our children he will do all he can to discourage us and make us think we've all made a mistake.  He'll get crafty (After all it's in his nature) and he'll be subtle.  He'll use a dispute or situation to try to convince our children that they aren't really loved unconditionally, that we're not really good enough or equipped enough to parent our children, that we're failures because our children have 'issues' or 'baggage' that isn't fixable, that we made a mistake in bringing this child home, that we're failures because we 'lose it' with our kids now and again.  He'll say: "See, you're not qualified."

Then the enemy will do all he can to attack your marriage.  He'll do anything to steal your intimacy, to take your alone time away, to drive a wedge in your relationship using anything he can.  Now, don't get me wrong, I don't think were all helpless puppets in the devil's hands, but I know he will use a situation to his advantage, or he'll bring something in our path to try and take our eyes away from Christ.  He just sets the scene and then we often do the rest on our own.

It's OK to feel overwhelmed at times, and we need to lean on others, to seek counsel, to get help, and sometimes we're just worn out.  Sometimes we just need a little time to regroup, rest and recover, but we don't want to hear the enemy say "Abandon your posts", and then step out of the way and abdicate our responsibility and let the enemy win.......instead.......we "Prepare For Battle!"  There is a scene in the second Lord of The Rings movie (The Two Towers) where the men are preparing for a different battle (Helm's Deep) and we see Aragorn putting on the chain mail, tightening his belt, and  getting ready to fight!  He does it with purpose and readiness (Unlike King Theoden reluctantly getting his armor on).  We too have to put on the armor of God:

Ephesians 6:10-20
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak."

I highlighted and underlined "The Sword of The Spirit" in the passage above.  It's interesting how the only part of the armor that's actually a weapon is God's Word.  Being in God's Word as often as we can is the best preparation for battle, and then is in us when we are in the fight.  In Luke chapter 4 we read about Jesus being tempted by the devil, and each and every time Jesus was tempted he quoted God's Word.  God's Word is our weapon of choice in this battle for our own lives, our marriages and our children.  We are blessed that we also have a helper - The Holy Spirit - we do not fight alone!

As we prepare for daily battle we always need to make our intentions clear to the world by saying "..As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:15).  Maybe this could be your fighting verse when the enemy attacks.  It reminds us that we are committed despite the storms that rage around us.

Join me in my prayer today:  "LORD God - thank you for your faithfulness to me. I affirm this day my decision to follow you, to be a man of courage, to stand up and declare that I will follow Christ. LORD, I will serve you alone all my days and teach this to my children, and to their children for generations to come. I Love You LORD.  Amen."

OK, so let's watch the scene from the movie and be reminded today that we should be prepared to fight for our purity, for our wives, for our children, for the unborn, for trafficked human beings, for truth and for integrity.  Because it honors God and is a true reflection of Him in our lives. 

In the fight with you,

Jason

(If you want to watch just the segment I referenced today watch from 2:00 to 3:43)

Announcing Joanna's Adoption!!!!!

Hi there - this is Jason writing on behalf of our family.  Dawn is in Florida with family celebrating the life of her cousin Heather, and is not able to be "connected" as she usually is, so I have the joy of posting while she's away!

Joanna has been such a blessing to our family.  Our journey to child number 8 was one of much heartache.  We were not able to bring home our Naomi (See our post about Naomi here), but God opened up a door for us amidst our loss and sadness.  A door with much rejoicing on the other side!  See our "Journey To Joanna" Part 1, Part 2 & Part 3.  Within days of signing up with Christian Adoption Consultants, with Tracie Loux as our consultant, and working with Mother Goose Adoptions, we were in Philadelphia, PA holding our precious baby girl angel!

From the time we knew we weren't bringing Naomi home I could see a sadness in Dawn's eyes.  I know it sounds silly, but she lost some of the sparkle.  When God turned our "wailing into dancing" (Psalm 30:11), He did it in style:

• Not only did He give us the gift of a child we so yearned for, but He made it happen in a matter of hours!!!
• He placed Tracie in our lives, who is now such an awesome friend.
• He provided a warm and loving home with Brian and Dorean Beattie (Friends of Tracie) where Dawn and Joanna could stay and be loved until being allowed to leave Pennsylvania (And it just happened to be that Dorean is a gifted photographer and took some beautiful pictures of a mommy and her new baby!)
• He opened up a door to fly Dawn and Joanna down to Houston in First Class for the same price as Economy.
• He gave us the gift of a home to stay in until we could come back to Louisiana - the home of a wonderful couple (who had never met us before either) to stay with over Easter Weekend no less, so we could be be together as a family!  The couple are the parents-in-law of Nell Ann Galindo, who with her husband Justin adopted a gorgeous little boy from Ethiopia through All God's Children, as we did our Jonathan.

There were many blessings - God is SO good isn't he? but the true icing on the cake for me as a husband was to see my wife get that sparkle back.  Others might not see it specifically, but I can see it in her face in these pictures taken when Joanna was just days old.

Dawn took this herself the first day she held Joanna

One of the pictures taken by Dorean

I took this picture the day I arrived in Philadelphia

Me holding Joanna for the first time

One of the most awesome moments in the life of a mommy or daddy is when you hold your child for the first time.  Dawn was able to take pictures of me with Joanna the first time I held her (You can see I still have my bag over my shoulder) as I stepped into the lobby of our hotel.  What went through my mind, and what continues to go through my mind when I hold her now is how special children are.  They are special to us because they are a new life created in God's image, with eternal worth, with a purpose, with unique gifts and personality, and a reminder of God's blessing in our life EVERY day! 

Those of us who have or will be adopting, and those who are passionate about God's heart for adoption know how sweet the day is when you finally have that adoption decree in your hands. So, please join with us in celebrating the adoption of Joanna on the 22nd.  We so wish that all of our dear and precious blog friends who have been part of our journey could be with us to celebrate in person, and we know that that isn't possible, but you are welcome to be part of our day - we would love to see you!

We value, appreciate and treasure your prayers, support and encouragement - THANK YOU!   Praying you all can experience and see that "sparkle" in your life and in the faces of those you love.
God Bless,

Jason

Adoption- A Husband's Point of View

Dear Brother in Christ,

I wanted to share some thoughts with you about adoption from a dad’s perspective. If you’re like me you have an amazing wife who is a true “blogger”. I have come to understand this term as not only a woman who shares the joys and sorrows of her family on her own blog, but one who spends plenty of time reading about other families too. My wife, Dawn has shared with me that she feels connected and encouraged by reading other women’s (And some men’s) blogs about their families. Through her (And some of my own reading of blogs) I have been uplifted, encouraged, and challenged. The most significant thing I’ve got out of the blogs we read is that we are not alone. There are many families out there who are experiencing the same struggles and joys we are with adoption. I want to encourage you and remind you, Dad, that you are not alone either.

It’s hard though to figure out this whole adoption journey as a man because it seems to be the women in our lives that are the ones who are leading us in it. Or are they? It seems to be female dominated, but I’ve come to understand that just like life in the church, it’s the women who “talk” it out and have a unique way of “sharing” with each other. Men don’t “share” in the same way women do, so where do we go? Who do we talk to? How do we process our thoughts about adoption? That’s what has prompted me to write this. No one has “put me up to it”. It wasn’t even Dawn’s idea (Although I have to give her credit for most of them). I know that there are many dads or future dads out there that must be as terrified as me about adoption, who feel as inadequate as me, who feel like this is just a little bit on the overwhelming side of life. How come our wives seem so easily moved by the pictures of orphaned children and are ready to adopt “right now”? They see the “cute faces” of kids on the computer screen they want to bring into the family and surely cannot be thinking about how on earth their husband is supposed to provide for them. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve heard Dawn say, “Jason honey, look at this baby, isn’t he adorable”. How is it that they make it sound so simple? Why are they not worried about the implications and ramifications of adoption? They make it sound like a “dream come true”. So romantic. So simple.

God made us men to have the common sense, right? We are called to “put on the brakes” when our wives get so carried away. We are the voice of reason. We’ve got to be sensible about all this and not make rash and crazy decisions in a heartbeat that will affect our lives forever. I believe that the way God made us and intended us to be are definitely these things, but I think in our culture today, to a greater extent, Christian men and fathers have been fed, and bought into a false idea of what a “Real Godly Man” is supposed to be. What does a real Godly man and Spiritual leader look like? Well, when you get past the perception we’ve been given in our “female dominated” churches (Sorry ladies, but it’s true) for years of “gentle Jesus meek and mild”, in addition to the false images of Jesus making him out to be like a “bearded lady” with way too much make-up, you will see an example in Christ of a real man who stood up for truth, stood up for those who were weak, touched the “unclean” leper, spoke out against injustice, got angry at hypocrites, and made a difference in the lives of people. That’s our example of what a real man of God is like. He’s the hero we strive to be like. I believe with my whole heart that God wants His men, men just like you and me, to live a life of passion, strength, adventure, risk-taking, courage and boldness, all for His kingdom and all for His glory.

When Godly men rise up, what does it look like in reality right now? We see marriages that last, we see children with active, loving and protecting fathers, we see companies carrying out business with honesty and integrity, we see families worshiping together, fathers leading devotions at the family dining table, and husbands and wives praying together. You might say, “That’s awesome and I agree, but I just don’t know if I can adopt a child that isn’t my biological child, and I just don’t feel I’ve got what it takes to do this.” I’m not going to pretend I know what it feels like to have a biological child, as Dawn and I don’t have any, but I will tell you what I do know. God has given me a love for my eight adopted children that is so real and passionate, and I know I would lay down my life for any one of them. I think back to just a few months ago when our youngest baby, Joanna, was born. Just like I’ve heard from biological dads out there, when Dawn put Joanna into my arms I was just overcome with unconditional love for her. I couldn’t explain it, I just knew it and it was real.

So what about the “implications” part of adoption? I am not going to lie to you - adoption has its fair share of trials. Our youngest son, Jonathan, was eighteen months old when we met him in Ethiopia. Before we traveled to see him, my wife and I had fallen in love with him through pictures, but when we went to see him for the first time he wasn’t too thrilled to get to know us, so it wasn’t easy at all. I remembered though that God had called me to love him, and real love is an action, not a feeling, and so with baby steps he warmed to us, and in a very short time he loved on us like he’d been born into our family. Six of our kids came to us through the foster care system, and that too was very challenging, but I’ve got news for you - whether you adopt or have children by birth, they are bound to give you trials, behavioral issues and plaster the walls with crayons, or maybe even a permanent marker!

There are some specific issues that can arise because a child is adopted, and you have to get educated, but in my opinion there is also way too much out there that we get “bogged down” with regarding certain issues, and we can easily forget that we serve a God who restores, redeems and heals. It will take hard work, but often we overlook the miraculous and supernatural healing that God can do.

Sometimes the trials of adoption come from the outside. Many families we know through “blog land” have relatives who have shunned them or said some really hurtful things to them. Some have had members of their community or even their church make their prejudices loud and clear (And they’re the ones willing to say it to your face). It can be really tough, but isn’t life tough at the best of times? Is being a Christian in the first place easy? Is being different because that’s what Christ calls us to be easy to do? If we want the easy life, then we should just stay home and do nothing, but Jesus calls us onto the narrow path, “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:14). Adoption, and parenting in general, is tough, but so worth it.

How should we know if adopting is what we’re supposed to do? It’s not easy to take a leap of faith and step out into the unknown world of adoption, but remember I said before that God calls Christian men to be risk-takers with courage and boldness all for His kingdom and for His glory? Adoption is where it’s happening guys. For real. Nothing else in this world seems so crazy, wild and adventurous than to bring a child that’s “not yours” into your family, whether it’s child number one or child number eight! It’s an awesome adventure filled with a lot of blessings and many rewards. The Bible says that “Children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord”, and “Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them” (Psalm 127:3-5). If we believe God’s Word, then we know that having children is a life of blessing and purpose.

We’re also called as men of honor to protect women and children. We’ve all heard and seen the scripture reference in James haven’t we. You know, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27). Maybe we’ve read it so many times it just rolls over us like “water off a duck’s back”, but however hard we try and pretend it’s not there or doesn’t apply to us, we simply cannot deny that God has talked to all of us men deep in our hearts that this is the right thing to do, and that He’s calling “me”, yes “me” to action for the orphan.

So, I’m guessing that if your wife has already mentioned adoption to you then God has already been working in your life to prepare the way for a child to come into your family through adoption, whether you think it’s sensible or not, or whether you feel equipped or not for this task. Take this as the biggest compliment God can ever give a man - it means He trusts you to love a child that is close to His heart! God sees you as a hero - and you’ll be a hero to your wife and your kids. Real every day heroes is what this world needs. Will you be one of them?

Your Brother in Christ,

-Jason

Me and my eight blessings

Dawn - Happy Anniversary

Dawn,

On this day, 13 years ago, we made our vows to each other and to God that we would be together as one for the rest of our lives. I am so glad we met, so glad we got married, and so blessed to have you as my BEST FRIEND. God has continued to pour out His blessings on us both over the years, most significantly with the precious gifts of our children. We have experienced much joy, and many heartaches, especially over the last 2 years with losing Hannah Grace, and Naomi Caroline. I'm glad God gave us each other to encourage, support, pray for, and hold in times of darkness, and laugh with in times of joy (I'll never forget rolling on the floor in laughter the night our Joanna Faith was born).
My sweetheart - There are few people who are as blessed as me and our children to have such a Godly wife and mother. Thank you for all you do for me, I love you today more than ever.

-Jason

Working Weekend

Hi there - this is Jason making one of my rare posts on our family's blog. A couple of things to share with you:

1. If you ever read our blog you will no doubt by now have been uplifted and encouraged by Dawn's words. She has a gift to share a message the Lord has given her and put it into words that touch your heart! Last Sunday, right in the midst of the spiritual battle we were going through, she gave the message at our church. We had a "Camp Sunday", and so Dawn and I led the worship music and Dawn gave the message. In fact just minutes before starting the service was when a huge spiritual attack happened - imagine that, right before Dawn was going to share the truth of God's Word!!! I guess she must have been doing something right for Satan to have been that awful to us. Praise God that our God's power is stronger, and "the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). Normally the sermons are recorded and uploaded to our church's website, but Dawn's is not there yet! I so wanted to share that with you. When it's there we will let you know, so you can visit and listen. Take this as a "teaser", so you will check back soon and click the link to listen!!!!
2. This weekend is our Counselor-In-Training weekend (CIT) at our camp. This is where young people who are 14 or older this summer who want to volunteer their time at camp come and receive some training on what's involved and how to lead others. It's a busy time with me cooking the meals, Dawn leading parts of the training and so on, so we do some trading off and "tag team" with work and the kids. The kids have been helping me in the kitchen, one at a time, having Daddy time in the kitchen. It's been fun, and they've been doing an awesome job! I wanted to share this picture with you. It's obviously Dawn in a rare photographic appearance on our blog, with Joanna at the door ready to go do "check in" for the kids coming to camp this weekend, and lead some activities. This is what I call a working mom. And, Dawn reported when she got home that Joanna slept the whole time. Who wouldn't sleep snuggled next to Mommy for a few hours! She slept right through the "jump up and down" songs and everything! Enjoy!

For a true Proverbs 31 woman

Proverbs 31:28 -

"Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her..."

Yes - this is one of Jason's rare posts! Dawn has gone to bed (Where I should probably be myself, sleeping), but I just finished reading her most recent post, and I have been reminded of how amazing God is and how much we must keep fighting for those we love, how much He has gone "all out" for us, and our response regardless of our circumstances (And sometimes is so hard to do) is to lift our hands and our hearts to God and simply worship and obey Him, and trust Him, even if it's one small step, one day at a time. Thank you Dawn for reminding me. This post is for you.

Our kids have been getting in the "Valentines" mood today. In fact Elizabeth asked at least a few times if it was Valentines Day today! We shouldn't wait until Valentine's Day to say something special, or to say "I Love You" to our wife or husband, so this is my way of being unconventional and taking the opportunity to say "I Love You", just BECAUSE.

These are the things I love about Dawn, and I'm sorry I take them for granted way, way, way too often:

• Dressing the Kids alike for days out - It may seem weird to some, but aside from easily being able to keep our crew together and recognized amongst the crowds, Dawn likes the kids (And usually ALL of us) to match. I've learned this is important to her, and I know at the heart of it she thinks it's just lots of fun! Dawn - THANK YOU for co-ordinating us, and planning out the outfits - I appreciate the care and thought you put into that!

• Teaching our children - Dawn not only is a creative and caring teacher, but she cares so much about what the kids are learning, and I see her preparing with thought and care for their learning. She reads with them as a group, and one-on-one, taking that time. Dawn plans scripture memory verses and passages for the children to learn. She knows the value of treasuring scripture and wants to instill that in our kids. THANK YOU Dawn for teaching our children and putting so much effort into doing this in a way that honors the Lord.

• Reads God Word, and Shares it! - Dawn understands how crucial knowing God's Word is. She takes time apart to read, study and meditate on scripture. She is an inspiration to me and she is dedicated. I am blessed to have a wife who LOVES His WORD! Dawn is a very gifted speaker, and I have lost track of how many people have spoken to her after a message and said how much her words have touched them. God truly uses her as a vehicle to share His love with others. I was also 'blown away' this past Sunday - just a week after hearing our awful and heart-breaking news, Dawn gave messages at two churches. I can barely focus right now, and yet she got up, preached and was so willing to bless OTHERS! Dawn, I LOVE YOU for loving God and His people!

• Adoring our children - I am deeply moved by Dawn's passion for her 'babies'. She has such a special and unique relationship with each one of them - things that are special between just them, even when there are a million things on her mind. It is obvious to everyone that there is nothing more precious and treasured to Dawn than her family. I can see with my own eyes how much our children adore Dawn - the first picture below with Jonathan in his pirate costume captures a very special moment between Dawn and him. She is caught up in a moment of true joy with her child and his expression is so clearly one of love and oneness with his mommy. Our children are truly blessed, and they will surely "...rise up and bless her."

• Making memories & making occasions special - Every time one of the kids has a birthday and adoption day, which is lots every year, Dawn always writes a special "Happy Birthday or Happy Adoption Day" message on an easel, and decorates the table with balloons (Which she usually blows up by herself!!!) and ribbon. At the heart of this is the fact that she wants them to know how special and loved they are. Every Christmas Dawn looks for ways to make the season not only memorable, but keeping CHRIST at the center of everything. She has come up with special traditions that we all treasure, ones I know our kids will take into adulthood. She also makes awesome Sugar Cookies and has the kids decorate them for fun. Dawn, I LOVE YOU for caring so much to CREATE memories for a lifetime for our family. Dawn also has kept a journal since we met, and has taken the time to record her memories and thoughts of our journey together. What an amazing legacy to leave our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

• Grace, forgiveness & depth of character - Dawn is the most grace-giving and forgiving person I know (I should know - I have had to ask her forgiveness over and over!!!). She has shown people such mercy and kindness when it wasn't deserved. She has demonstrated to me how to "Love your enemies". She has a depth of character that is so hard to find today. When we were in Ethiopia to bring Jonathan home, on the first day there she was walking around "Hannah's Hope" and broke her foot! OK - this would have sent me into a frenzy of whining, complaining and sympathy-seeking. Instead, Dawn didn't complain ONCE, even when she had to basically limp on a very bruised and swollen foot. She focused on loving our new little boy, even though he didn't want to be loved by US too much at the time. Not many people are this strong - and I'm proud she's my wife! Dawn - I LOVE YOU for your strength and for being a woman of honor.

• Awesome leader in our camp ministry - No one will ever know how much time, effort and love Dawn puts into the camp's ministry. All I know is that God sees and I know how much He must be pleased with her work. Dawn writes Bible Studies, devotions, training materials, spends hours working on the camp's budget, speaks to groups, leads worship and shares a message to the kids......and all because she's focused on one thing - sharing the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ with each and every child who comes to camp. This camp could not have asked for a more dedicated and caring steward of God's special place. THANK YOU, Dawn, for all you do for the camp. I LOVE YOU for your effort and perseverence and passion.

• She makes me laugh, she's there for me, and she listens to me - Time and time again Dawn gives me what I need. Her laugh is very contagious and I am often moved to laughter because she laughs - what a joy to laugh! THANK YOU Dawn for the giggles and just plain silly moments! When I need to 'sound something out', Dawn listens, pays attention to me and cares about my thoughts and dreams, desires and struggles. I couldn't have been given a greater gift than a BEST FRIEND like Dawn. I am blessed beyond measure!

I have seen how much Dawn has been touched DEEPLY by our brothers and sisters in Christ through these hard days, and I am thankful to you all for just being you! We have both been encouraged and lifted up by your love, and knowing you are praying and are there means so much.

Dawn, I am so glad God gave us to each other. I'm sorry for the times I let you down, criticize you, question you, say dumb and uncaring things, and for being less than God calls me to be. I guess I'm a 'work-in-progress', and with God's leading and grace I know I can be a better husband and father. Thank you for bearing with me and extending patience and grace to me.
Dawn, it is always a joy and privilege to dream with you! We are walking in a tough time right now, but I am so glad we are together. I know that as we walk hand in with each other and with God, that our memory making, dreams, passion for each other, our children, and God's continued calling on our lives, I know that the days ahead of us will be always blessed.

I LOVE YOU SO MUCH.

-Jason

A blessing in the pain

This is Jason writing in one of my extremely rare postings (I think this is the second one). We got home late last night from England and of course we had no milk or fresh food in the house. This afternoon, after a really bad start to our return I told Dawn I would go to the nearest grocery store and pick up some milk and veggies. Just before leaving I took a brief look at the comments in response to Dawn's postings, both on this blog and also on face Book.

I was just amazed at how much love and kindness was being poured out on us. People have been been praying for us, but not just in that "I'll pray for you" off the cuff way, but REAL words of encouragement, REAL empathy, and REAL understanding. The pain is still there, like having a bad headache that just won't go away, but we have been reminded so BOLDLY that we are not alone. You have reminded us that our God is a God of healing and miracles, a God who has a plan for our family, and a God who cares. You have also been to us today "God with skin on" - HIS people, a true body of Christ who has hurt today when we hurt. THANK YOU!

This may sound silly, but in my heart, for me, but especially for Dawn, I wished so much that we were nearby to you all - that was one thing today I cried about as I drove to get the milk - we feel so alone because of where we live. Someone made a comment saying they wished they were close so they could come over and physically hug us and be with us. That would be ideal, but I am still so grateful for you where you are because despite the miles you have been a source of great strength to us today. I know the husbands are usually about two steps behind their wives with the blogging world, but I as Dawn's husband have seen how much she has been uplifted through reading your posts, sharing in your joys and struggles, and being blessed in return, like today, and I am so glad to know you are with us.

If the truth be told I think the husbands are pretty interested in the lives of the other blog families out there - we just don't get much of a chance to sit at the computer!!!! Most of the blogs we read are over the shoulder of our wives! Do I hear an AMEN?!!!!

We love you,
Jason & Dawn

Giving Thanks To God For Our Hannah Grace

What a roller coaster ride we have been on over the last year or so. We finalized Joshua, Sarah and Elizabeth's adoption in March 2008, and by the end of March we were already applying to adopt through All God's Children.

In May of last year an email was sent from AGCI about a little girl that they wanted to find a family for. She was only a few weeks old and she had multiple special needs, including severe scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and spina bifida. I have to admit that Dawn is the one who sees the faces of the children and falls in love first, then she leaves their pictures on the computer screen for me to see, or she shows the kids how beautiful a child is, wins them over, and then I have to cave in!


After seeing this little girl for a few days and letting the Lord speak to our hearts, we felt moved, and with joy asked AGCI about her. At that time we were informed that another family were interested and were gathering more information about the medical prognosis. After feeling so moved we were disappointed for ourselves that maybe we were too late. We waited (impatiently) and after what seemed like forever we got a message on our machine saying that the other family had chosen not to pursue adopting her. We were so overjoyed, ran back to the computer, looked at the pictures, and kept dreaming again...... (Ever done that over your child?)
So, one year ago, this very week, after falling in love with a beautiful baby girl, we requested the referral of Lidya, whom we chose for her the name "Hannah", which means "Grace", so we felt the name Hannah Grace would be perfect.

Knowing the medical situation was serious, doubled with excitment, we moved as quick as we could to do everything. We're talking Homestudy, dossier, training credits, fingerprints - you name it all achieved in a matter of just about 3 weeks (Thanks to Dawn's amazing ability of pushing it to get it done, as opposed to my gift of procrastination). We were on the way! Our doctor was very concerned that we needed to bring Hannah home as quick as possible, as she would need lots of specialized medical attention, including surgeries, so with her help, and the gracious help of AGCI, as much as possible was being done to bring her home.

The next few weeks of the summer were hard (The waiting), not that we had much time to twiddle our thumbs as we are in full time camp ministry, so July was busy, and with bugging our senator, and USCIS to make sure everything was being done, as well as having to make changes to our letter of favorable determination to include a child with special needs! We were at least on the home stretch! We had notification that we had a court date!!! It was to be on August 4th. We knew we'd be traveling and holding our baby girl within weeks.

On Friday July 25th, just 10 days before court we received a call from AGCI to let us know that they had received word from Almaz that Hannah had become very unwell, and they were very concerned that she would not survive. This is an excerpt from the email we sent that afternoon:

"Our hearts are just breaking right now, and we have been on our knees as a family praying this lunchtime for her, for those giving her care and for strength for our family. Why does this happen so close to us bringing her home? We are yearning to hold her, to tell her she has a mommy and a daddy and six brothers and sisters, and that God loves her, made her and has a beautiful plan for her life. We have pictures of her in our home, we've been buying pink outfits for her, our kids talk about Hannah Grace all the time and are so excited to meet their new sister. We are wanting the best out of this situation, but fear the worst. We know she's in God's hands, and right now there's nothing physically we can do about it, just pray and wait.."

We felt so helpless, yet utterly dependent on God's strength. Isn't it crazy that after we heard the news about our Hannah that on that very day in the mail came our I-797C/Letter of Favorable determination form the USCIS. I forwarded a scan of it to Julie at AGCI, and she prayed with us on the phone - wow - an agency that prays with you! The plan was to wait through the weekend and talk again on Monday to see how she was doing.

Then before the day was through we received another call from Emily at AGCI, a call I know must have broken her heart to make, telling us that they had received word from Almaz that our sweet, precious, beautiful Hannah Grace had gone home to be with Jesus.

The utter grief that tore our hearts was the worst feeling we've ever had. We loved this baby girl with our whole heart. Why had we been led by God down this road? Why did he bring her into our lives? Why did we fight so hard and pray so much only to lose her? Why couldn't we have held her in our own arms? I know it sounds selfish, but even now as I type I have tears in my eyes and a sadness in my heart that Dawn and I never got to hold her and tell her we love her.

We know fully now that God took us on this journey to make sure that this little girl, who in the world's eyes did not hold much value, would not leave this world without having a family willing to fight hard and pray much for her, and to claim her in their hearts. Isn't this the mission we all share on our journey together - that each and every child has someone who claims them in their hearts? It's so important for us to do this, not so that we receive the "reward", but that we give selflessly and unconditionally out of joyful obedience to God. In turn the rewards are real and truly "out of this world", and we have a special connection to God through this obedience, however tough and heart-breaking it can be along the way.

So, we will always feel a deep sense of loss over our Hannah Grace, but a deeper sense of joy knowing that God entrusted our family with the responsibility of being a mommy and daddy, brothers and sisters to His precious child. What a privilege and an honor he bestowed upon us. Not only that, but I can barely fathom that through this journey he blessed us not only with Hannah, but also our sweet baby boy, Jonathan Caleb. We could not imagine our lives without him, yet if Hannah had come home with us, we would not have brought Jonathan home. I see it this way: God planned our journey - a special, unique and tough journey to strengthen and deepen our relationship with Him, to not just bring one child home, but to give us the gift as a couple and as a family of two precious children of God: Our Jonathan to bring home into our arms, and our Hannah Grace to hold in our hearts and hand into the arms of our Heavenly Father.