Are we crazy?

I can't help but hear these words in my head, imagining the reaction of others who may or may not understand why we are doing this.  Several years ago, I may have uttered these words myself in response to someone that would do what we are about to do. To the logical person, it does not make sense.  But to those of us that are in Christ and who choose to believe in an unseen God, it makes perfect sense.

Thus, our story begins... Greg and I have three beautiful children that bring joy and purpose to our lives.  We are living the American Dream and doing fairly well.  Our kids are healthy, Greg has a good job, we have a good marriage. We are involved in our church, have a great support network of friends and family.  Life is good.  God has certainly blessed us and we recognize His faithfulness throughout our lives.  Yet, something is missing.  There is a longing in each of our hearts for something more.  We witness God's amazing power in the lives of some of our loved ones who have chosen to follow him whatever the costs.  We read books such as "Radical," "Kisses from Katie," and "Not a Fan" that challenge our faith and urge us to become authentic followers of Christ in word and deed. 

The walls of our church have echoed the words "Compelled for Christ" as it prepares for greater ministry.  Our pastor has lead us to the words of the apostle Paul found in 2 Corinthians chapter 5, verses 13, 14, and 15:  "If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.  For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.  And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again."  Although this was used by our pastor to explain the church's vision, I can't help but think that the Holy Spirit was speaking these words right into mine and Greg's hearts.  You see, some might say that we are out of our mind.  We might even wonder that ourselves at times.  But the reason that we would ever even consider adding two children to our family, who are from the other side of the globe, is simply because we believe in a God that died for us and we can no longer live for ourselves.

We have chosen to adopt two beautiful children from Ethiopia.  We believe that God has called our family to adoption and He revealed our children to us last week.  We are excited about adding more love and laughter to our home but we are most excited to be part of God's greater plan of love and redemption.  Yes, we may be crazy.  Two more mouths to feed, two more bodies to care for, and two more students in our homeschool (yikes!).  But, we know without a doubt that the God that brought us along this journey of adoption is faithful, he is with us, he will strengthen us, help us, and uphold us (Isaiah 41:10). 

Our prayer is that our lives and our story bring Him glory.  Our desire is to share this journey with you that you may see the goodness and glory of God Almighty.