I think we have some the most loving friends in life! The constant outpouring to us in this whole process of adoption has caused me to evaluate myself continually. I realize that I am often inadequate in loving others so graciously and hope that my friends can forgive me for not being more like Jesus everyday. I am thankful that God is teaching me to more mindful of His ways in these days as our family strives to live unto His will and to love with His mercy and grace.
Recently we received our first update of Ruby, one picture and a few sentences, and updated measurements, which is the first we've gotten in 3 months from China! Sweet precious child we know so little about, yet love so completely! Recently the wait is taking a toll on the whole family unit. Lulu cries for Ruby sometimes too; it must be hard to go to sleep in a room that now hold an extra bed in the anticipation of baby sister, and no real concept of "soon". Which is all we can really tell her when she wonder when we'll go. This is the most hard part of it all. My sorrow in waiting I can understand, my precious daughter's longing for a sister is very difficult to bear.
Our Documents are now in China, hand-delivered today! And part 1 of 3 is over, with the anticipation of part 2 just beginning. I have to reflect on the love of God's people for this process of loving a child halfway around the world and supporting us to bring her home. We have had 5 fundraisers, all offered by our loving Church family, aside from the Chip-in widget that will expire soon. A total of Gifts through the Church and fundraising has now broke over $6000 and we can never express the gratitude we feel. I only hope one day I can help another person in their desire to adopt one day!!!
I will say that I have never felt so completely unconditionally loved by such kindness in my life. This is an amazing gift that has forever changed my life. Ruby's life being entwined with ours will no doubt bless us more than we could imagine, as LuLu's proved to do. Let's thank the Father, for such great love and provision of His children!
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer 29:11 (NIV)
Do you know what LuLu means in Mandarin??? It's a wish for the future: meaning "with this child may you prosper". We have indeed prospered with this precious gift of LuLu.
