Well. I intended to be back before now. But life has been consumed with raising children and soul searching. A healthy break, and a poignant reminder that my thoughts are essential to no one.
Paul, in his letter to the Ephesian church:
3:8To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, 10so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.
Our church will be observing Orphan Sunday on Nov. 6 (hope yours will be as well). I play a very limited part in what the observation will look like, but it's caused we to wonder (again) nonetheless...exactly what does it mean to care for orphans?? Now that Vince and I have completed two adoptions I ask myself this question even more deeply. So many people are doing so many wonderful things for the cause of the orphan, yet still in my own heart I had not landed upon what it should look like--until recently.
I won't take you on that journey, but here's the conclusion that God has settled in my heart: plant churches. New Testament, Gospel-driven, God-glorifying churches. And plant them in communities where sin is robbing children of their families. This is enduring, life-giving care to the orphan. As a matter of fact, plant them everywhere! Sin is claiming more than families. There possibly are organizations (and more hopefully, churches) that are doing this--I've not researched enough to know.
Paul also said:
1 Cor 15:3For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures...
...of first importance... is not that orphans are cared for--but that Christ is preached. And it is through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known...when God's wisdom is received and embraced, orphans will be cared for. And even greater than that, more children will remain with their birth families. I know that God is sovereign and allows all kinds of things for all sorts of reasons (ultimately for His glory)--but that doesn't mean that we just accept man's depravity, which destroys families.
Rom 6: 1What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?
We either live in approval of sin, or, oppose it in power with the truth of the Gospel.
And as I think about planting churches, my heart fills with sadness because so many are willing to go...and have been called to go...but there aren't enough senders. This is because we're not willing to embrace, as John Piper calls it, a war-time lifestyle. God has promised to supply the resources to accomplish His work, so it's not for lack of resources that orphans aren't cared for and that sin is reigning. The only explanation is that we are disobedient...or disbelieving. Am I crazy? (which is quite possible)
Rom 10:11For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame." 12For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
14How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15And how are they to preach unless they are sent?
So. This is where I am. Taking baby-steps to embrace my war-time lifestyle...because I believe that the darkness is fading and sin is losing its power to put to shame -- and, by the grace of God, may our family proclaim the Lord of all (bestowing his riches on all who call on him).
2 Cor 10:3For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. 4For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ...
Showing posts with label Fatherless. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fatherless. Show all posts
9.26.2011
4.25.2011
It matters to God. My mailbox told me so.
UPDATE! As of 4/28 Mother's Day cards have raised $2440 for Trees of Glory in Ethiopia!!
I hate to admit that this is very much a season in my life where my time in the Word and deliberate prayer often wanes. That's just the way it is. Yet this afternoon, I captured a moment while the boys were napping to read a few chapters in Romans and talk with my God. A few thoughts surfaced--thoughts that have been heavy on my heart...
...is our concern for the least of these driven by impure motives...are we taking Scripture out of context, in order to prop-up do-good-deeds, because we're really just looking for an ego-trip...
So I simply asked God to examine my heart. To affirm our steps. Or to redirect our paths. We are passionate about serving the destitute and the marginalized. We're always looking for ways to do more. Not because we feel obligated, but because every need that is met is an open door for the Gospel. For physical relief and spiritual healing. Even still, the best of intentions always need to be examined before God, in the light of His Word.
After a few quite moments with the Lord, I closed my Bible. And I walked outside to check the mail. There were three envelopes inside. One about our renters insurance. Another, a thank-you note from a new mom that I had never met before, but several Believers wanted to bless her with a shower because she's not connected to a church (and I got to be apart). The third piece of mail was from HopeChest. It was a hand-written, translated letter from a child that we sponsor in Ethiopia. He told us that he is doing well, and added 'praise God.' He also wanted to know if we're coming to Ethiopia, and he asked that we pray for his school.
We've sponsored this child for over a year, and this is the first hand-written letter that we've received from him.
Can I just tell you that I was in awe. I broke down in tears as I told Vince about what just happened. I asked God to show me His heart, and test mine -- and with in a matter of minutes I found T's letter in our mail box. Coincidence? Absolutely not! Affirmation? Absolutely!
In that moment, I felt the weight of God's heart. The marginalized, destitute and fatherless do matter to Him! And He ordained in eternity-past that T's letter would be in our mailbox, to affirm our family. Wow! It's so easy to get discouraged by the noise of ridicule when it comes to Gospel social justice. Thank you, Lord, that your voice rings truer and clearer!
Now switching-gears. Kind-of. (I feel this also falls in the it-matters-to-God category) As of this afternoon, we're raise over $1200 for the Trees of Glory clean water well project. Just $300-shy of last year's total for Kind Hearts play ground equipment. What an honor is has been for me to make my simplistic cards. If you haven't joined the fundraiser, there's still time to order cards!! I will take orders through Sat, Apr 30. For all the details, see my previous post below.
I hate to admit that this is very much a season in my life where my time in the Word and deliberate prayer often wanes. That's just the way it is. Yet this afternoon, I captured a moment while the boys were napping to read a few chapters in Romans and talk with my God. A few thoughts surfaced--thoughts that have been heavy on my heart...
...is our concern for the least of these driven by impure motives...are we taking Scripture out of context, in order to prop-up do-good-deeds, because we're really just looking for an ego-trip...
So I simply asked God to examine my heart. To affirm our steps. Or to redirect our paths. We are passionate about serving the destitute and the marginalized. We're always looking for ways to do more. Not because we feel obligated, but because every need that is met is an open door for the Gospel. For physical relief and spiritual healing. Even still, the best of intentions always need to be examined before God, in the light of His Word.
After a few quite moments with the Lord, I closed my Bible. And I walked outside to check the mail. There were three envelopes inside. One about our renters insurance. Another, a thank-you note from a new mom that I had never met before, but several Believers wanted to bless her with a shower because she's not connected to a church (and I got to be apart). The third piece of mail was from HopeChest. It was a hand-written, translated letter from a child that we sponsor in Ethiopia. He told us that he is doing well, and added 'praise God.' He also wanted to know if we're coming to Ethiopia, and he asked that we pray for his school.
We've sponsored this child for over a year, and this is the first hand-written letter that we've received from him.
Can I just tell you that I was in awe. I broke down in tears as I told Vince about what just happened. I asked God to show me His heart, and test mine -- and with in a matter of minutes I found T's letter in our mail box. Coincidence? Absolutely not! Affirmation? Absolutely!
In that moment, I felt the weight of God's heart. The marginalized, destitute and fatherless do matter to Him! And He ordained in eternity-past that T's letter would be in our mailbox, to affirm our family. Wow! It's so easy to get discouraged by the noise of ridicule when it comes to Gospel social justice. Thank you, Lord, that your voice rings truer and clearer!
May he defend the cause of the poor of the people,
give deliverance to the children of the needy,
and crush the oppressor...
give deliverance to the children of the needy,
and crush the oppressor...
For he delivers the needy when he calls,
the poor and him who has no helper.
the poor and him who has no helper.
He has pity on the weak and the needy,
and saves the lives of the needy.
From oppression and violence he redeems their life,
and precious is their blood in his sight.
and saves the lives of the needy.
From oppression and violence he redeems their life,
and precious is their blood in his sight.
our sweet T at Kind Hearts in Ethiopia...he matters
3.13.2011
adoption isn't enough
I am so sick of heart about the unfolding changes in Ethiopian's adoption process. You can read more about that here. I'm not intending to jump the gun on the situation, and I am still hopeful that orphaned children will be united with their forever families, but...
what if...
could this be...
A wake-up call for the Christian community. Around 2500 children were adopted from Ethiopia into US families in 2010. 2500 out of 5 million. Please don't get me wrong -- every single one of those successful adoptions was nothing less than an act of God. I know this first-hand, because our Micah Yoseph coming home in 2009 was an undeniable act of God. But hear my heart...
Is it easy for us, when our adoptions are rolling along smoothing, to have tunnel-vision. To some how think that that because (in our case) I am bringing one child home, I don't really have to think long and hard about all the millions of other children who will never come home??
When adoptions are rolling smoothly, do those millions of children lose their voice?
The reality is, adoption isn't enough. We cannot put all our eggs in that basket. Americans bring home 2500 Ethiopian per year (PRAISE GOD) -- but 30,000 children DIE PER DAY in Africa! Our family ministers to the fatherless (outside of adoption), but oh, do the bread crumbs we throw under our table make our God look so small.
Not sure where I'm intending to go with all this. But what I do know for certain is that God is sovereign...even over MOWA. And I am also certain that God cares for the fatherless. ALL of them. His Word says so.
Lord, give us your eyes. Show us what you see when you look at Ethiopia. At Africa. Father, use this situation to give millions of children a voice...and quicken us, Your Children, to be listening.
what if...
could this be...
A wake-up call for the Christian community. Around 2500 children were adopted from Ethiopia into US families in 2010. 2500 out of 5 million. Please don't get me wrong -- every single one of those successful adoptions was nothing less than an act of God. I know this first-hand, because our Micah Yoseph coming home in 2009 was an undeniable act of God. But hear my heart...
Is it easy for us, when our adoptions are rolling along smoothing, to have tunnel-vision. To some how think that that because (in our case) I am bringing one child home, I don't really have to think long and hard about all the millions of other children who will never come home??
When adoptions are rolling smoothly, do those millions of children lose their voice?
The reality is, adoption isn't enough. We cannot put all our eggs in that basket. Americans bring home 2500 Ethiopian per year (PRAISE GOD) -- but 30,000 children DIE PER DAY in Africa! Our family ministers to the fatherless (outside of adoption), but oh, do the bread crumbs we throw under our table make our God look so small.
Not sure where I'm intending to go with all this. But what I do know for certain is that God is sovereign...even over MOWA. And I am also certain that God cares for the fatherless. ALL of them. His Word says so.
Lord, give us your eyes. Show us what you see when you look at Ethiopia. At Africa. Father, use this situation to give millions of children a voice...and quicken us, Your Children, to be listening.
For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing- Deut 10:17-18
11.15.2010
URGENT! children in Haiti need our help!!
via Lifeline Children's Services:
URGENT ACTION CALL - We have just learned that the International Adoption Simplification Act - S. 1376 and the Help Haiti Act of 2010 - HR 5283 will be put on the suspension calendar early this week and maybe as soon as Monday afternoon. We must act now. Call or email your U.S. Representative today (no need to contact your Senator at this time).
Please contact your House member to ask them to support the International Adoption Simplification Act -S. 1376- and the Help Haiti Act of 2010 HR 5283. To pass this bill, we will need a total of 290 votes. Currently, there are 255 Democrats and 178 Republicans so please contact both your Republican and Democrat Representatives. Again, please do not mail anything but fax, email or call your Representatives and if possible, speak to the adoption staffer. Please also have your family and friends call as well.
All house members and office numbers can be found at www.house.gov
A brief reminder of the International Adoption Simplification Act - S. 1376
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include in the definition of "child" a child adopted under the age of 18 (16 under current law) who has been: (1) in the custody of, and has resided with, the adopting parent of parent for at least two years; or (2) battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by the adopting parent of a family member residing in the same household.
Includes in the definition of "child," and thus in the exemption from required admissions vaccination documentation, certain children who have been adopted in a foreign country that is a signatory to the Hague or who are emigrating from such a country for U.S. adoption.
and
Help Haiti Act of 2010 HR 5283.
Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to adjust to permanent resident status an alien who: (1) was granted parole admission into the United States pursuant to the humanitarian parole policy for certain Haitian orphans announced on January 18, 2010, and suspended as to new applications on April 15, 2010; (2) is physically present in the United States; (3) is admissible as an immigrant; and (4) files an application for adjustment not later than three years after enactment of this Act.
URGENT ACTION CALL - We have just learned that the International Adoption Simplification Act - S. 1376 and the Help Haiti Act of 2010 - HR 5283 will be put on the suspension calendar early this week and maybe as soon as Monday afternoon. We must act now. Call or email your U.S. Representative today (no need to contact your Senator at this time).
Please contact your House member to ask them to support the International Adoption Simplification Act -S. 1376- and the Help Haiti Act of 2010 HR 5283. To pass this bill, we will need a total of 290 votes. Currently, there are 255 Democrats and 178 Republicans so please contact both your Republican and Democrat Representatives. Again, please do not mail anything but fax, email or call your Representatives and if possible, speak to the adoption staffer. Please also have your family and friends call as well.
All house members and office numbers can be found at www.house.gov
A brief reminder of the International Adoption Simplification Act - S. 1376
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include in the definition of "child" a child adopted under the age of 18 (16 under current law) who has been: (1) in the custody of, and has resided with, the adopting parent of parent for at least two years; or (2) battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by the adopting parent of a family member residing in the same household.
Includes in the definition of "child," and thus in the exemption from required admissions vaccination documentation, certain children who have been adopted in a foreign country that is a signatory to the Hague or who are emigrating from such a country for U.S. adoption.
and
Help Haiti Act of 2010 HR 5283.
Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to adjust to permanent resident status an alien who: (1) was granted parole admission into the United States pursuant to the humanitarian parole policy for certain Haitian orphans announced on January 18, 2010, and suspended as to new applications on April 15, 2010; (2) is physically present in the United States; (3) is admissible as an immigrant; and (4) files an application for adjustment not later than three years after enactment of this Act.
6.14.2010
Not too late to send cards!
I've received a few emails today from people still wanting to make a donation for Father's Day cards --- IT'S NOT TOO LATE! PayPal me your info tonight, and I'll get the cards in the mail tomorrow!
And a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who's participated!! We raised over $600 for Into the Street of Ethiopia!!
And a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who's participated!! We raised over $600 for Into the Street of Ethiopia!!
6.08.2010
celebrate your FATHER...
...by giving hope to children who don't have one!!
It's not too late to make your donation to Into the Streets of Ethiopia in honor of the fathers who have made a difference in your life -- and allow me to mail them a Father's Day card, as tangible evidence celebrating their love and leadership!!
It's not too late to make your donation to Into the Streets of Ethiopia in honor of the fathers who have made a difference in your life -- and allow me to mail them a Father's Day card, as tangible evidence celebrating their love and leadership!!
(use the top, right donation button -or- see previous post for details)
Your donation will support education, basic living needs and discipleship for kids living on the streets of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia!
No, your donation can't replace the value of having an earthly father, BUT, it will open the door for these children and teens to meet their Heavenly Father!
"...the glory of children is their fathers."
Prov 17:6
Your donation will support education, basic living needs and discipleship for kids living on the streets of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia!
No, your donation can't replace the value of having an earthly father, BUT, it will open the door for these children and teens to meet their Heavenly Father!
"...the glory of children is their fathers."
Prov 17:6
6.01.2010
How will you celebrate the FATHERS in your life?
Our Kind Hearts playground fundraiser was such a success (THANK YOU!! -- only $325 to go!!) that we've teamed-up with Into The Streets of Ethiopia for a Father's Day card fundraiser! I, again, will donate my time and the materials for the cards! 100% of your donation goes straight to ministering to street kids in Ethiopia! Just provide me the name(s) and address of the recipients! You can use the PayPal donation button on the right to make your donation and provide instructions. I'll mail the cards on Mon, June14th!
Me, Vince & Robel in Addis Ababa, March 2009.
The aim of Into the Streets of Ethiopia is to raise financial support, basic living materials and educational needs for street children living in Ethiopia. Improving the child's living standard and provision for education will help to contribute to their future well being and adjustment in society. It is their desire to partner with charitable organizations which serve underprivileged youth in Ethiopia. All funds will be devoted to the cause of helping street children and at risk children in Ethiopia.
Into The Streets of Ethiopia has specifically partnered with a Follower of Jesus and dear friend of many America World families, Robel Alawi (Children's Future Ethiopia), to help realize his dream for a better future for the streets kids of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia!
Me, Vince & Robel in Addis Ababa, March 2009.You can read more about Into the Streets of Ethiopia & Robel Alawi by clicking the link below.
5.05.2010
Kind Hearts...and China...UPDATES
Many gracious THANK-YOU'S to everyone who participated in the Kind Hearts Mother's Day fund-raiser!! Together, we raised over $1400 (plus $250 already in the fund) toward a playground for the children at KH!!! I mailed 116 cards to over 30 states! Amazing!! Vince & I are still committed to reaching the playground-goal of $2800! We'll keep you posted about other fundraising opportunities, and the playground progress!!
UPDATE 5/7/2010: WE'VE RAISED OVER $1500!!!
So what's new with our China process?
Um. Well. Nothing.
You got it!! We're still waiting for our AL background check (began the process early Feb). Crazy. Background checks in MO were completed in 48-72 hrs...but we're past 48-72 DAYS!! Why is it taking so long? The Lord only knows! Seriously. Vince and I have complete faith that God is sovereign over every aspect of this adoption -- and for whatever, reason He's allowing/causing our background checks to linger. We'll see our sweet Judah's face when the time is right. Not a moment sooner. But, not a moment later either! I get so frustrated with the process, because inefficiency drives me crazy -- but in the same breath, I'm cherishing every moment with Micah...while it's just me & him!!!
Speaking of Micah, Vince is traveling to Lond*n this summer for mission work. And, we're praying about Micah and I traveling with the team. We'd really, really love to go! And, it's actually a trip where Micah & I would have the opportunity to do ministry/evangelism with another family. But, with pending adoption expenses that we're saving for, the trip would really be a huge, financial stretch. But I trust completely that God's ability far surpasses what feels like a seemingly, impossible situation!!!
UPDATE 5/7/2010: WE'VE RAISED OVER $1500!!!
So what's new with our China process?
Um. Well. Nothing.
You got it!! We're still waiting for our AL background check (began the process early Feb). Crazy. Background checks in MO were completed in 48-72 hrs...but we're past 48-72 DAYS!! Why is it taking so long? The Lord only knows! Seriously. Vince and I have complete faith that God is sovereign over every aspect of this adoption -- and for whatever, reason He's allowing/causing our background checks to linger. We'll see our sweet Judah's face when the time is right. Not a moment sooner. But, not a moment later either! I get so frustrated with the process, because inefficiency drives me crazy -- but in the same breath, I'm cherishing every moment with Micah...while it's just me & him!!!
Speaking of Micah, Vince is traveling to Lond*n this summer for mission work. And, we're praying about Micah and I traveling with the team. We'd really, really love to go! And, it's actually a trip where Micah & I would have the opportunity to do ministry/evangelism with another family. But, with pending adoption expenses that we're saving for, the trip would really be a huge, financial stretch. But I trust completely that God's ability far surpasses what feels like a seemingly, impossible situation!!!
5.01.2010
share the love of Christ TODAY with children in Ethiopia!!
Kind Hearts Mother's Day card fundraiser...UPDATE!!!
I'm so excited to share that - together - we've raised almost $1400 toward playground equipment for the precious children at Kind Hearts, Ethiopia!! (Almost $1200 from Mother's Day fundraiser, $100 from Project Martin t-shirts, and $150 from another donor!!)
The total amount needed for Kind Hearts' playground is $2800 -- so $1400 to go!!!
Thus far, over 100 cards are going to be mailed all over the country...celebrating the amazing women in our lives, AND, raising awareness for orphaned and destitute children in Ethiopia!!!
It's NOT TOO LATE to join in...you, too, can celebrate a mother....and bless a child!!!
Use the paypal button on the right to make a donation for Kind Hearts (100% of you donation will go to KH!!) -- tell me who/where to send the card, and who you'd like for me to list as the donor who is honoring this special woman!! I'll mail the cards on Mon, May 3rd.
You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor... Deut 15:5
I'm so excited to share that - together - we've raised almost $1400 toward playground equipment for the precious children at Kind Hearts, Ethiopia!! (Almost $1200 from Mother's Day fundraiser, $100 from Project Martin t-shirts, and $150 from another donor!!)
The total amount needed for Kind Hearts' playground is $2800 -- so $1400 to go!!!
Thus far, over 100 cards are going to be mailed all over the country...celebrating the amazing women in our lives, AND, raising awareness for orphaned and destitute children in Ethiopia!!!
It's NOT TOO LATE to join in...you, too, can celebrate a mother....and bless a child!!!
Use the paypal button on the right to make a donation for Kind Hearts (100% of you donation will go to KH!!) -- tell me who/where to send the card, and who you'd like for me to list as the donor who is honoring this special woman!! I'll mail the cards on Mon, May 3rd.
I value all things only by the price they shall gain in eternity- John Welsey
4.26.2010
a little more about Kind Hearts & our fundraiser
Kind Hearts care-point has 68 children, all are who are currently sponsored by families around the country. Sponsorship includes nutritious meals every day, clothing, medical care, education and Christian discipleship for each child!!
One of Kind Hearts' projects includes a fresh water-well. This project was adopted by St. Joseph Christian School in MO. The project goal is $15,000 -- and St. Joseph's has already raised $12,000!! This well will allow HopeChest to then develop a chicken farm on the property (for fresh eggs and meat - protein for the kids' meals and funds from egg sales) as well as bathrooms, showers and a kitchen!!
So far, together we've raised almost $400 for Kind Heart's playground!!
Our goal is $2800! We are so excited & thankful beyond words for your partnership in this effort!! Any monies raised above the cost of the playground equipment will go to the fresh-water well project!!
Make a donation for your Mother's Day card today!! I'll mail them one week from today!!!
Read my posts below for more details!!! 100% of your donation goes to KH!!
To "meet" some of the children at Kind Hearts, click here! You'll even see a pic of our sweet "T", the little boy we sponsor!!
And here is a drawing that we recently received from "T"!!!
One of Kind Hearts' projects includes a fresh water-well. This project was adopted by St. Joseph Christian School in MO. The project goal is $15,000 -- and St. Joseph's has already raised $12,000!! This well will allow HopeChest to then develop a chicken farm on the property (for fresh eggs and meat - protein for the kids' meals and funds from egg sales) as well as bathrooms, showers and a kitchen!!
So far, together we've raised almost $400 for Kind Heart's playground!!
Our goal is $2800! We are so excited & thankful beyond words for your partnership in this effort!! Any monies raised above the cost of the playground equipment will go to the fresh-water well project!!
Make a donation for your Mother's Day card today!! I'll mail them one week from today!!!
Read my posts below for more details!!! 100% of your donation goes to KH!!
To "meet" some of the children at Kind Hearts, click here! You'll even see a pic of our sweet "T", the little boy we sponsor!!
And here is a drawing that we recently received from "T"!!!
4.23.2010
you + me = PLAYGROUND in Ethiopia
This...
...equals NO MORE this!
Kind Hearts care-point for orphaned & impoverished children is in desperate need of many things. Playground equipment is on that list (see above pic, taken by Karen Wistrom in Nov 09). Might not seem like a high-priority -- but, every child needs a few moments in their day when they can be, well...a child. Carefree, giggly, silly, dreamy...released from heart-ache and worries, that often plague the children at Kind Hearts.
Playground equipment for KH will cost around $2800. For some reason, this project spoke to me. Clean water, medicine & education are extremely vital needs for these children. Just like salvation is of utmost important to Followers of Christ.
But...
God didn't stop with salvation. It was a beginning point from which He lavishes blessing into our lives.
And I'm not satisfied to just give the basic minimum to the children at Kind Hearts. The love of Christ compels me to do otherwise!! I want them to know, in their heart-ache and isolation, that's God love for them isn't a worn-out, hand-me-down...it's pure, full...over-flowing!
You can help make this a happen! Make a donation for KH (top, right button) in honor of a special mother or friend this Mother's Day, and I'll send a Celebration Card to that very special woman, letting her know how incredible her influence has been! It's reaching all the way to Africa!!
Read the post below (date 4.20.2010) for more details!
4.20.2010
celebrate a MOTHER, bless a CHILD
This will be the second Mother's Day I will celebrate as the forever-mommy to my sweet Micah Yoseph from Ethiopia. Yet I still can't help but think about the many, many children in Micah's birth country who are currently growing-up without a mom. Or, the many other children who are living on the street or with destitute relatives because their mother is too sick to care for them.
This Mother's Day, I don't want a single gift...I want nothing...other than the opportunity to be a surrogate mother of-sorts to these lonely, hurting children. And I pray that you will join me this Mother's Day! Join me, and stand in the gap for mother's who are unable to feed, clothe and educate their precious little ones!
Here's how YOU can be apart!
This Mother's Day, I don't want a single gift...I want nothing...other than the opportunity to be a surrogate mother of-sorts to these lonely, hurting children. And I pray that you will join me this Mother's Day! Join me, and stand in the gap for mother's who are unable to feed, clothe and educate their precious little ones!
Here's how YOU can be apart!
You can celebrate your mother (any mother...or any special woman) by making a monetary donation that will be presented to Kind Hearts care-point in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I will send a Celebration Card (picture below) to the woman (or women) you wish to honor -- letting her know she has touched your life, and the lives of children in Ethiopia!!!
Kind Hearts (sponsored by Children's HopeChest) is a care-point for orphaned and impoverished children -- because of the gracious support of sponsors, Kind Hearts is able to provide to food, clothing, and education...and most importantly, the Gospel of Jesus! But the children of Kind Hearts have many other needs as well! Clean water, bathrooms, kitchen, books, playground equipment...!!
Your donation can help Kind Hearts become more than just a place to survive, but a place to THRIVE!!! These children are Ethiopia's future...let's help them be world-changers!!
Excited yet? I am!! And so is Children's HopeChest!
Here's how you can participate:
To make a donation, use the PayPal donation button on the right column. While making your donation, there is a place for special instructions so you can provide me the name and address of the woman you are honoring. 100% of your donation will go to KH -- I'm donating the stamps and cards! I will print and mail your card the week before Mother's Day. And on Mother's Day I will present our donations to Children's HopeChest -- check back here as well, so we can celebrate our efforts together!!
Questions?? Don't hesitate to contact me at alisafmartin at yahoo dot com
For more info about Kind Hearts, visit Karen Wistrom's blog (Kind Hearts sponsor coordinator)!!
Below is a video of Kind Hearts, compiled by a team who visited KH in March 2010 on behalf of St Joseph Christian School, St Joseph, MO:4.17.2010
WARNING. If you read this...
...you are responsible to do something!
Most of you know, we are involved with sponsorship programs in Ethiopia (via Children's HopeChest and Compassion Int'l).
The two organizations that we help support through HopeChest are Kind Hearts and CFI.
The purpose of these facilities is to provide a safe-haven for children who have lost one or both parents, or who are living with extremely destitute family members. These children receive food, clothing, and education, and a chance to hear the Gospel of Jesus. Both of these facilities are still in need of sponsors and financial donations to help improve their ministries (ie- water wells, school supplies, clothing...).
Click on the links below to read more about these efforts, and follow the journey of the adoptive families who are spear-heading these ministry efforts for HopeChest:
Kind Hearts Care Point, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
CFI Orphanage, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Most of you know, we are involved with sponsorship programs in Ethiopia (via Children's HopeChest and Compassion Int'l).
The two organizations that we help support through HopeChest are Kind Hearts and CFI.
The purpose of these facilities is to provide a safe-haven for children who have lost one or both parents, or who are living with extremely destitute family members. These children receive food, clothing, and education, and a chance to hear the Gospel of Jesus. Both of these facilities are still in need of sponsors and financial donations to help improve their ministries (ie- water wells, school supplies, clothing...).
Click on the links below to read more about these efforts, and follow the journey of the adoptive families who are spear-heading these ministry efforts for HopeChest:
Kind Hearts Care Point, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
CFI Orphanage, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
4.12.2010
Does your heart multi-task?
Up until about a month, or so, ago Vince and I had Ethiopia-tunnel vision. What do I mean? Ethiopia had consumed us. Between Micah's adoption process, our experience in Ethiopia, and the many ministries several of our friends have launched in Ethiopia, we have been inundated with the extraordinary needs of the children who call Ethiopia home. And many of these ministries our family is currently supporting.
So, when (kind-of out of the blue...having already started our 2nd Ethiopia adoption) we sensed the Lord leading us back to China I had a collision of sorts within my heart. How could I be totally devoted to Ethiopia, and yet make room for China? Would it have to be one or the other? This is my type-A personality thinking out-loud here. Ashamedly, I admit I even had the fleeting though, will I love my son adopted from China as much as I love my sweet Micah. But I think that's a pretty normal thought...whether our children are adopted or biological.
Well, I'm typically a great multi-tasker...but, how could my heart handle being fully-devoted to both Ethiopia and China?? I was really worried about this!!
Thankfully I'm not still asking myself those questions...looking back it actually seems a little silly.
This is one of the most amazing parts of being a Follower of Jesus! We don't love or work in our own strength. Christ does it through us! It's His work and His love! And there is more than enough energy and love available to us, as His Followers!!
All that said, to say...God has showed us we can be fully-devoted to Ethiopia, to China...to the fatherless all around the world!
And, as excited as I am about our journey to Baby Judah in China, I am equally excited to share Into the Streets of Ethiopia -- a vision for Ethiopia's street kids, birthed by our dear friend, Robel -- and now this ministry is now going to reach hundreds of children because of the support and passion of adoptive families!! Click the the pic for more info...help us help them!!!
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith––that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
So, when (kind-of out of the blue...having already started our 2nd Ethiopia adoption) we sensed the Lord leading us back to China I had a collision of sorts within my heart. How could I be totally devoted to Ethiopia, and yet make room for China? Would it have to be one or the other? This is my type-A personality thinking out-loud here. Ashamedly, I admit I even had the fleeting though, will I love my son adopted from China as much as I love my sweet Micah. But I think that's a pretty normal thought...whether our children are adopted or biological.
Well, I'm typically a great multi-tasker...but, how could my heart handle being fully-devoted to both Ethiopia and China?? I was really worried about this!!
Thankfully I'm not still asking myself those questions...looking back it actually seems a little silly.
This is one of the most amazing parts of being a Follower of Jesus! We don't love or work in our own strength. Christ does it through us! It's His work and His love! And there is more than enough energy and love available to us, as His Followers!!
All that said, to say...God has showed us we can be fully-devoted to Ethiopia, to China...to the fatherless all around the world!
And, as excited as I am about our journey to Baby Judah in China, I am equally excited to share Into the Streets of Ethiopia -- a vision for Ethiopia's street kids, birthed by our dear friend, Robel -- and now this ministry is now going to reach hundreds of children because of the support and passion of adoptive families!! Click the the pic for more info...help us help them!!!
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith––that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Eph 3:14-21
2.23.2010
Kind Hearts, Ethiopia
I mentioned that $1 from every t-shirt we sell will be donated to Kind Hearts Care Point in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This donation will go specifically toward playground equipment (total needed is $2850).
Karen Winstrom is the Sponsor Coordinator for Kind Hearts--here is her blog so you can "meet" some of these precious children. Our family sponsors a little boy at Kind Hearts through Children's HopeChest.
www.family-from-afar.blogspot.com
There are several capital campaigns underway for Kind Hearts, one being uniforms for all the children. If you would like to donate, please go to the HopeChest website at www.hopechest.org, click on Give. Specify a $19 donation and specify ET2110 UNIFORMS in the "Notes/Child Reference Number field". Be sure to clearly specify "ET2110 UNIFORMS" so that the money goes to the Kind Hearts school uniform fund.
I'm sure you noticed how dirty and tattered the children's clothing was in the recent photos shared by Becky Burk. Most children that attend school in Ethiopia wear school uniforms - clothing that is specifically worn for school. Education is so important to Ethiopians and those uniforms signify that your child is a student (an honored and respected title - student).
Our kids at Kind Hearts cannot afford uniforms - but WE can provide them! $19 will cover the cost of a Kind Hearts school uniform for one child - a matching pair of pants, a shirt and a jacket in a quality fabric. I'd like to fully fund school uniforms for the kids in the next 2 weeks.
I hope you will follow Karen's blog -- but I'll also keep you posted about KH's projects!
Karen Winstrom is the Sponsor Coordinator for Kind Hearts--here is her blog so you can "meet" some of these precious children. Our family sponsors a little boy at Kind Hearts through Children's HopeChest.
www.family-from-afar.blogspot.com
There are several capital campaigns underway for Kind Hearts, one being uniforms for all the children. If you would like to donate, please go to the HopeChest website at www.hopechest.org, click on Give. Specify a $19 donation and specify ET2110 UNIFORMS in the "Notes/Child Reference Number field". Be sure to clearly specify "ET2110 UNIFORMS" so that the money goes to the Kind Hearts school uniform fund.
I'm sure you noticed how dirty and tattered the children's clothing was in the recent photos shared by Becky Burk. Most children that attend school in Ethiopia wear school uniforms - clothing that is specifically worn for school. Education is so important to Ethiopians and those uniforms signify that your child is a student (an honored and respected title - student).
Our kids at Kind Hearts cannot afford uniforms - but WE can provide them! $19 will cover the cost of a Kind Hearts school uniform for one child - a matching pair of pants, a shirt and a jacket in a quality fabric. I'd like to fully fund school uniforms for the kids in the next 2 weeks.
I hope you will follow Karen's blog -- but I'll also keep you posted about KH's projects!
1.28.2010
no ordinary girl : karen's TRIP FOLLOW-UP
You may remember, I mentioned my dear friend, Karen, several weeks ago. (If you missed that post, read here.) Well, she's home from her first trip to Africa...her first trip to minister and share the Gospel with the fatherless. And I wanted to capture her first-time, first-hand experience for my bloggy readers -- so, here are my quesions, and her answers! Thank you for taking a few moments to read about the children in Ethiopia and Uganda!
How did you get introduced to the world's orphan crisis?
I probably was not aware there was a crisis until you and Vince started the process of adopting internationally. Even then I didn't see that it was a problem of such wide spread proportion. I knew there were orphans. I was a M*A*S*H fan growing up. Korea was war torn. I considered that to be a real and reasonable part of the story. I think I was a little surprised the first time I heard someone say that there were enough orphans in the world to populate the former U.S.S.R. (Do I have that right?) That's a lotta' defenseless kids.
What moved you to join a Visiting Orphans mission trip?
Me and my big mouth. At one of our singles retreats you and Vince were discussing the need for people to adopt and encouraging even singles to adopt. (I'm still certain that is not my calling.) I remembered remarking to someone sitting near me, "I don't want to adopt as a single, I just wanna' go help." The ensuing conversation was a lament that our church did all kinds of missions but nothing when it came to orphans or orphanages, and that we did not have any idea how to be a part of something like that. After y'all moved to Alabama, I was keeping up with your blog--you challenged those who weren't called to adopt, that they were still called to care for orphans; and then suggested to me a way to do it. I was actually looking for a place to hide under my desk when I read your suggestion--then God reminded me of my words from the summer before and said, "Well, are you all talk or not?"
Did you have the necessary funds for your trip, or did you have to raise money? Were you surprised by how God provided for your trip? Why, or why not?
I did not have the necessary funds for my trip. I could have squeezed it out, but I wouldn't have had anything left, and I do mean NOTHING. I knew He would provide if He wanted me to go. First, I sat back for a while (being sick to my stomach) thinking it just was not possible. But a couple of my friends pointed out to me, "Karen, you have to go all-out if you are going to do this, you can't sit back and take it easy."
Good friends. So, I heeded their advice. I sent out about 80 support letters. I was amazed at God’s provision--I was blessed to be able to raise exceedingly abundantly more that I needed. About 30 people responded, and some who I hadn't even sent letters to gave me funds as well.
What was the most shocking part of your travels to Africa?
I'd have to say that biggest shock came the day we visited the dumps outside a community called Korah (think: the man and his family who the ground swallowed up because of their disobedience) This Korah was founded as a Leper colony (along with all of its implications) in Addis Ababa, Ethioipia. We had been warned that we would be visiting a dump, and that we should prepare for the smells etc. But as I looked at the itinerary, I understood that there was no way to prepare, though I tried to consider what it might be like.
When we pulled up, the one thing I had not envisioned was that the dumps were literally on fire--smoke was rising from various places all around. My mind immediately went to a word Jesus used which we translate as "Hell." The word is geheena, pronounced (gheh'-en-nah). It referred to a valley south of Jerusalem where rubbish and dead animals were thrown to be burned. I turned to the woman sitting next to me and said, "These children live in Hell." I fought back tears and prayed for strength. I was going in.
We could see the kids standing at the edge waiting for us. It was tough. I prayed at some point that God would deaden my sense of smell. I can handle looking at gross things, and I could even take my time and figure out how to breathe in the smoke. (I found that progressively harder by the way.) But I really did not want to hurt the children's feelings by having to run off to get sick. One miracle, we decided later in the day, was that none of us did get sick.
I went in willingly, knowing that this was exactly Jesus wanted us to be; and that is the truth: imagine after all, the picture of where we (sinners) once were and where we deserved to still be (Hell)--but it’s also true that I really wanted to leave, and quickly. We were there for around 3 hours. The children that lived there were typical little kids. They wanted the stickers and candy that we had for them. They put stickers all over their faces. One little boy kept coming back for more sweets. I didn't mind so much but I wanted to let as many kids as possible have a piece too. I finally asked him, if he thought I didn't recognize him? He started laughing.
I took each child's hand and placed a piece of candy in it with the other hand because I wanted to know that they were lovable, and touchable. The saddest part that I saw was that girls, most of which appeared to be between age 10 and 15, would hardly look us in the eyes. They were very outnumbered, and I couldn't help wonder what their life is like on a regular basis. My guess is that no one was keeping them safe…in any way.
What was your most joy-filled moment spent with Africa's orphans?
I think the part of the trip that gave me the most joy happened in Uganda. The children at Canaan Children's home were sleeping on the floor. The girls were sleeping on the floor in the hospital because their dormitory had been burned down and was in the process of being rebuilt. We had an overage from the money we raised for the trip. We discussed as a team, and decided to honor pastor Wagaba's request for mattresses for the children. As we watched the children come and get their "surprise" I was overtaken by the idea that we had come to comfort the orphans in their distress, and indeed, a mattress should provide some long lasting comfort, not just what we could give while we were there. The children began to sing, "This is the day that the Lord has made. We are the people that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." It was a very sweet moment.
Did you come home hopeful, or hopeless? Did you sense God working to care for the least of these? Can you share a few ways?
In Ethiopia on Friday night a few of us went for to a local place for coffee. On the way, we ran into some ladies from the UK. They were there doing mission work. As we discussed our different activities, a sweet and powerful little lady announced, "God has got his hand on Ethiopia." I believe she is right. He does and always has. He sent Philip (by supernatural phenomena) to explain the Gospel to an Ethiopian eunuch long ago. And today, He is raising-up leaders from within Ethiopia. Our guides and those working in the guest home were working with street kids, the children in the dump were being ministered to by a young man who came out of the dumps himself. He came to know the Lord, when students from Young Life (instead of shunning him like other missionaries had) wanted to play with him. Now he is there to lead his people. Visiting Orphans will send these people help, and make people in the US are aware of the needs. There is hope. The children in Uganda have hope. Even the children from the neighborhood, who do not live in the orphanage, run through and play there. They will see God's love in action. Do I think an orphanage is the best way for a child to live? No, but these children were being loved. They were being told about Jesus. Many of them had awful stories from before they were in the orphanage. Many of them said that their life was so happy now.
In 2-3 sentences, what do you want Believers in the US to know about this crisis?
Believers in the U.S. need to know that the need is great. The need is actually greater there than here. We have been given such wealth and blessing, and it is not for us to keep to ourselves. There are defenseless and hungry children in the world. We are responsible for them too.
They were created in the same image we were.
They are ours.
1.27.2010
Mark Driscoll- 32 Hours: The Church in Haiti
Listen to Mark's heart-breaking discoveries in Haiti...and how there is still hope.
1.20.2010
1.19.2010
1.18.2010
shirts 4 shoes
http://www.mycrazyadoption.com/
We need to sell 400 T shirts to give 400 orphans a brand new pair of shoes & a new shirt.
400 HopeChest Project T shirts will give us the $12,000 we need to reach EVERY CHILD!
I don't want any child left behind. 100% of proceeds goes to the project!
Fundraiser ends Feb. 1st!!!!!!!!!
HELP SPREAD THE WORD!! 400 for 400!!
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