The Humbled Plea

I’m taking a deep breath and asking for God’s blessing as I begin to write this entry.  It’s very hard for me because I deeply want to set a good example of following the call of God and accepting and understanding the adoption process.

Every part of my being, believes that everyone is called to care for the widows and orphans...

“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God means caring for the orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” (James 1:27)

... but certainly, not every person is called to adopt an orphan.  We were.

If you’ve read any part of my blog then you surely know just how deeply we love this little girl.  We will do anything for her.  But, we can’t do this alone. 

When we first started talking about adopting her, a friend said it would cost about $15,000.  My mind shut down there, and I tried to convince myself to walk away from this adoption.  At the time, that was more than I made in a year.  There was no way this could go any farther.

Then, we put that little stinker on the plane after our fairytale week together, and I didn’t care if it cost me every penny that I would make for the rest of my life.  That little child was not going to go through life hungry for a family of her own.  Money was irrelevant.  SHE was all that mattered. 

Now, seven months later, our savings have run out and we are applying for grants.  So far, we haven’t received anything, but we are being patient and prayerful that our hearts will be heard by the right organization, and they will help lift this financial burden.  The amount of $15,000 was just a fraction of what it would actually end up costing.  The final number we are looking at is $35,000.  In some odd way, it’s less intimidating because it’s just so unimaginable to us.  But the bottom line hasn’t changed.  Whatever it takes to get her home!

My plea to you, is to join us in “caring for the orphan.”  You don’t have to adopt a child of your own (yet), but will you come along side a family that is doing what God has asked them to do?  Are you willing to talk to your spouse, or your mom and dad, or your friends… and become part of our story?  I know how many of you read this silly blog… I know because I feel it in your prayers.  I know because I see it in your eyes when you ask about our latest news.  I know you read because you are precious friends that care about our growing family.

Tonight, I humbly ask you to be part of our journey.  Your prayers are our first and most important need, and any financial help you can provide would be appreciated more than words can say.  We have added a PayPal button to the blog to make it convenient, but you can always swing by the house and be forced to look at the thick pile of pictures from our first trip, if you prefer! 

Your friendship, your encouragement, and your love have meant the world to us… thank you for standing by our side through every step of this adventure!  We will continue to share little glimpses of our story as it unfolds.       

Much love,

Shannon (and Chad too)