Nasty True Confessions

Don't give up on me until the end...

Once upon a time, I wanted to adopt.

I wanted to grow our family, and I wanted a daughter.

I wanted for you to look at me and think I was pretty cool.

(I'm cringing at the pride.)

My heart also wanted Jesus, but to be completely honest, I wanted it for selfish reasons - to proclaim my glory and get my way.

Then I saw the numbers - 147 million. And I saw the faces. And I realized it wasn't about me. Slowly, it became less about adopting - though I still long for it - it became about the children. And I began to see the amazingly beautiful ways the Body of Christ could serve, the ways my covenant family could show these faces, their hearts - their true Creator...to give them a taste they were made for more.

Then, I met foster care. I realized again it's not about me, though I need support. And, really, it's not about those 147 million precious faces. There are Mommas and Daddies, and aunts and uncles, and sisters and brothers, and grandparents. There's the department of human resources, and social workers, and lawyers and judges. And, all these are hearts in desperate need of encouragement, in need of their arms to be lifted, in need of renewed hope.

Then, I saw a glimpse of what it could be with the transcending, transforming reality of Jesus.

And I knew, it's not about me, or the precious children, or the fighting mommas and daddies, or the grieving grandparents, siblings, aunts or uncles. It's not about the faithful social workers, lawyers, or judges.

It's about Jesus, my Savior - the one who took my nasty true confessions.

Four years ago, I wanted to adopt. Today, I want the journey that takes me to my Jesus.

Always

My foes are many

They rise against me

But I will hold my ground

I will not fear the war

I will not fear the storm

My help is on the way

My help is on the way

Oh, my God

He will not delay

My refuge and strength always

I will not fear

His promise is true

My God will come through always

Always

Trouble surrounds me

Chaos abounding

My soul will rest in You

I will not fear the war

I will not fear the storm

My help is on the way

My help is on the way

I lift my eyes up

My help comes from the Lord

FIVE BOXES TO GO!

HAPPY 33RD BIRTHDAY TO ME!