Matters of my heart

Isn't it funny how sometimes, you just can't help what captures your heart? I feel like so many things in my life right now- ministries, friendships, even my very own baby... all start to point to the same thing. And though I don't know what it means yet or what I can do about it; I certainly can't ignore it. Jake and I had a long conversation about it last night.

I have an increasing passion for orphans. Specifically orphans with special needs. I'm volunteering with an orphan ministry in the works at church called "Grace 1:27". Pointing to James 1:27 which calls us to care for the orphans and the widows. It's still very much in the beginning stages, but we can all feel God stirring up something big. And not surprisingly- His Word clearly lays out His heart on the matter. Also, I've been thinking so much about Reece's Rainbow. (Which I've talked about on previous posts.) These little children break my heart. In the Ukraine, children with Down Sydrome are imediately given up for adoption, even by loving parents, to an orphanage because there is nothing for them in that country. No early intervention, no special education, no therapy, nothing. And so they fill up these orphanages (special ones for any and all babies with special needs), and if not adopted by the age of four, the ones with Down Syndrome will be sent to mental institutions. A life sentance. Which kills me because even though my own daughter isn't even two years old... I'm learning what amazing potential there is in this country for her! If you search the media- young adults with Down Syndrome are going to college and getting married! Leading full lives. And no, we don't know what God has in store for Abby- we will allow her to do whatever He wants her to- knowing that could even mean keeping her home with us as an adult. But that's another post. :)

The point is, my heart is crying out to the Lord on these kids' behalf. Who will take care of these kids??? What mothers will take them in and love them as their own? Jake helped me to see that the problem is so much bigger than what I can fix within my own home. :) I can't adopt and raise all of these kids myself. And adopting just one wouldn't satisfy my heart. (Not that we're throwing out that option.) But for now, I'm waiting patiently on the Lord to show me what He wants me to do with this heavy heart.

And until he does... can I introduce you to a little girl? Her name is Ginger. She'll be 6 in January. It's a miracle that this little girl has stayed in the orphanage this long, most her age have already been sent to the institution. If she isn't adopted soon, she'll go as well. This is a quote from a woman who was adopting out of her orphanage and saw Ginger while she was there.


"Ginger is the sweetest little girl. I held her often and she loved to snuggle and cuddle! She held on to me so tight and cried when I put her down. She is non-verbal (makes sounds but no words), but she has the sweetest little giggle and she is very ticklish. I was told she can follow basic commands." ~August 2008




For more information on Ginger,
or to see other kids from Reece's Rainbow, click here.