Our Sunshine Girl

Nights like tonight are the reason why we do what we do. The reason why we holler so loudly, even when it feels like no one is listening. Tonight, we were invited to the Rogers' Family Farm to meet Caleb and Jessa (Bernadette) for the first time. I wanted to greet them at the airport, when their feet hit American soil, but Marty's Grandfather passed away this week and we were busy with family.

After months of praying for and advocating for Jessa and Caleb to come home, here they were. Not on the other side of the country or 3 hours away, but just a short drive down the highway. I was greeted by a smile as bright as the sun and treated to many kisses, hugs and invites to sit on the couch beside our sunshine girl.

My heart is so full and as I talked to Marty on the drive home, we were amazed, again, at God's provision. His care for the orphan. This little girl was so very close to life in an adult mental institution. She will be 16 this year and would have been transferred shortly after. But God...

God began to whisper into Erika and Mel's hearts about crossing the ocean, again. They looked and saw potential and a child worthy of love. They saw beauty where others had failed to recognize it.

Then, because my friends are such amazing Christ-followers, they thought why not save more than one child. Again, they allowed God to fill their hearts with hope for the ones forgotten. God had another precious gift waiting for them. He reminds us of our Vaylo, just waiting for a chance to try on love and see how it fits. I think, the fit will be good and Caleb will blossom in this home. 

For nine years, he waited to be chosen. God has already begun the healing and restoring work in Caleb's life. He is going to shine, just wait and see.

We did what friends do. We had dinner and cake and let our kids run wild and play. All the while my heart was full of the goodness of God. As I looked around at each of our blessings and we have a few between us, my breath was taken, by the faithfulness of God. His word is true and every promise is Yes and Amen. 

I'm so thankful that Erika and Mel responded to the voice of God and chose to "Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter." Proverbs 24:11

Jessa, Caleb, the Rogers' and Rhodes' family will never be the same, because we have tasted and seen that the Lord is good! We know that His mercy endures forever!

Pray, Adopt, Advocate, Support...Do Something!

Hidden in Christ,
Mandy