spiritual markers.

I don’t believe things happen by chance. I believe God is sovereign over all things and He works all things for the good of anyone who loves Him.

This morning, I was reminded of several ways that God has perfectly timed the events of this week.

When we originally wrote our letter to S for our video, Nathan was sick, which prompted me to begin the letter this way…


“I was up a lot last night rocking your brother, Nathan, and
comforting him because he’s sick and not feeling well. He called out to me in
his sleep and he only relaxed once he was in my arms. As I rocked him and
caressed his hair, I thought of you, baby girl. I once again prayed that
someone was there to rock you and hold you when you are not feeling well. My
heart is aching to hold you in my arms. I long to be the one who comforts you
and assures you that you are loved.”

Our Give1Save1 week was assigned based on the Give1 calendar of families. We “just happened” to be slotted for this week. Pure Charity “just happened” to be launching their adoption fundraiser portal this week at Summit 9. I can’t help but see God’s hand in this timing.

Yesterday, we officially launched our Give1 fundraising week {to raise the final funds for our adoption expenses}. Of all days, yesterday marked three years to the day that I had been airlifted to UAMS in Little Rock after going into high-risk pre-term labor with Ben & Nathan.

April 29, 2010. I will never, ever forget that day.

We were told that the chances of survival were slim and the chances of the boys both being born healthy were near impossible. Yet, God gave me the most incredible peace as the doctors delivered those words. He was right there all along. His Spirit filled that room and I knew without a doubt that they would be alright.

It was delusional by earthly standards. It was impossible.

But, God. God is so much bigger than the standards we live our lives by. He takes the impossible and makes it possible.

An entire month later {baffling all of the doctors}, these boys entered the world. They were fighters from the beginning. {I’ve shared this video before but it is TOO sweet not to share again!}

Oh, and, look at them now…they’re as wild and rambunctious as can be…

Through that experience, I learned that I can place my full trust in God to care for and protect these babies He has entrusted to me. He knit them perfectly and carefully together and He loves them immensely more than my human mind could even comprehend.

This morning, a gentle whisper also reminded me that, just as He protected the boys, He is protecting S now. Her living conditions may be dismal. Her life may be at risk. Yet, in all things, in all circumstances, He can be trusted.

A recent answered prayer… another adoptive momma rocked my baby girl to sleep for me during her visit.

When I tempted to feel that our prayers to get S home this summer are impossible and the odds against us are insurmountable, I know that God can be trusted.

Sunday’s sermon included this statement that spoke volumes to my aching heart: “It’s easier to trust someone who has come through for you over and over.” 

Oh, my Jesus. You have come through for me time and again. How can my faith flounder now? How can I not surrender all to you even when I long to grasp control and hold all three of my babies tightly in my arms?

I will vow to be like Jacob.

I will leave stones as spiritual markers. Reminders of all that He has already done and all that He will do. I pray once again that He is glorified in our daughter’s story.