"Pure and undefiled religion before God and the
Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the
world. James 1:27.
This scripture has resonated in our minds so much recently as we walk this adoption journey. Though our updates have not been plentiful; paperwork, doctors’ appointments, and fingerprints have been filling our schedules! As we have filed all of our past addresses, autobiographies, financial statements, 20 copies of marriage certificates, birth certificates, and a sign off on required reading books we are praying each day for us to be ready for what God has planned for this season in our family’s lives.
We received a call from the agency about 2 weeks ago and
their words were, “you really should just give up, for the requirements you
have, and the number of biological children you already have you will be on a
waiting list at least five years and more likely up to seven years." Though
I felt completely shocked and devastated (understanding the requirement for the
agency’s concern) we discussed other possible options. She said the myth is
actually, “not enough babies and too many hopeful parents.” We talked about independent
adoption and the suggestion that we should consider an older child.
As we have talked over all of our options and what we are
really seeking, we are realizing that this adoption is more about the Will of
God than the will of the Wards. Though we would love a brand new baby, we understand
that God has called us to complete His will and need to trust that He knows
what He is doing. We are going to do our best to promote and “advertise” our
desire for a child and know that we have been called to take care of the
orphans.
There have been moments where I have just wanted to say,
"Never mind, I don’t need any more children but I believe that God wants
us to have more children but He wants His will done and the glory be given to
Him rather than us and our own efforts.
With that, please continue to pray with us that God will
give us strength to trust in Him and know that He has a plan for us. Pray for
our continued Home Study that all of our paperwork is approved and we can move
forward in preparing for grants and other means of finances, and lastly for
patience as the right child will come to our family in whatever Godly time that
might be.
