Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Update...

Today we received a copy of a letter from the Ministry of Social Protection authorizing our facilitators to look for a child for our family. Lately, everything has been a little slow because of elections and impending changes with some of the ministers. It seems that action was taken on our case as soon as it was known that the same person would continue as the Head of Ministry. We have also been reassured that our case will be processed under the old laws. Our facilitator has been granted permission to visit orphanages, meet with directors and inquire about a girl up to the age of 5 who is legally eligible for adoption and a match for our family. This is great news~!

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Habakkuk

“Look among the nations and watch— Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you."


Like a small child, I often find myself asking "why?" "Why did this happen?" "Why, are you doing this?" "WHY?" So many times I find myself on the floor of my dark closet in fetal position begging God to move, to shine light on my path, to speak. Begging for answers...

How long must I pray
Must I pray to You
How long must I wait
Must I wait for You
How long 'till I see Your face
See You shining through

(yes, this is a song)

He does not always answer immediately but he does, however, bring hope. He renews my faith and gives me the strength I need to keep going.

And in that still small voice he speaks the words I've heard so many times... wait patiently, my daughter.

It's in this waiting and being still before God and pouring out my heart that he shows me a whole new understanding of the way he works. Its in this waiting that I get to know God's heart more intimately and see that he has not abandoned me and he is in complete control.

One day this week I woke up with Habakkuk on my heart. Having never read Habakkuk (all 3 chapters at once), I opened my Bible and began to read about a prophet who saw a dying world that broke his heart. Why is there evil in the world? Habakkuk boldy takes his questions to God. He cries out, "How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But you do not listen! Violence is everywhere! I cry, but you do not come to save". In chapter 2 Habakkuk declares that he will wait to hear God's answers. God explains that it may seem as though the wicked triumph, but eventually they will be judged, and righteousness will prevail. It may not come quickly, but judgement will come. The book ends with a prayer of triumph. His questions have been answered and he has a whole new understanding of God's power and love. He rejoices in who God is and in what he will do.

"Yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon heights" Habakkuk 3:18,19

Father God, THANK YOU for your word. Thank you for wanting to hear from me, all my struggles and doubts even though You already know. Thank you for revealing yourself and sustaining me. Thank you God for hope which comes from you alone. Thank you for reminding me that you are in control of this world in spite of the apparent triumph of evil and one day you will rule with perfect justice. Father, continue to guide this process. Humble us Father so that we can accept your answers and we will patiently await your perfect timing. We will wait with expectation because you will do great things. And may this be all for your Glory. Amen

"I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy" Habakkuk 3:2