Today we got some news from our adoption agency. Nothing earth-shattering, and we can't share any details here, but just enough to throw me off a bit. Enough to make me start questioning things. Enough for me to ask, "Are we doing the right thing?" Enough for me to say "God, please let me know if this adoption thing is really what you want us to do, because it's not looking anything like MY plan...". And wouldn't you know it, He answered that little prayer.
Tonight I went out to the mailbox and grabbed our little stack of mail. After throwing away 20 junk mail fliers and life insurance advertisements (you are wasting your time, you silly company!), I was left with a couple of Christmas cards. I saw that one card was from one of my oldest friends from middle school. This girl is actually more than a friend, she was unofficially adopted into my family growing up, she is a "Stokka" in part, and therefore, a sister. She's the type of friend that I may not talk to for a year, but if I see her again, it's like nothing has changed. Anyway, as I opened and read her card, the tears started flowing as I saw her sweet, encouraging words. Out dropped a check for $1000. And a Target gift card for $250. Too generous. Too kind. And there was my answer, it looks like God has not changed his mind about us adopting. I needed some confirmation and encouragement, and there it was, delivered to my door by a dear friend. Thank you Lord!
I cannot rightly find the words to thank my friend and her husband for their gift. I have been reading 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 recently, which is all about giving. It talks about how both the recipient and the giver are blessed when one gives generously. I can only pray that God will richly bless these friends, and ALL the friends and family who have given selflessly to us, as He is able.
"And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say,
“They share freely and give generously to the poor.
Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” - 2 Corinthians 9:8-9
Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” - 2 Corinthians 9:8-9
