It's also unbelievable to think that we don't have a referral yet.
When we started this last December, the estimated time from start to finish was 8-12 months.
We thought we'd been in Africa now, meeting our children.
Instead, we still wait for a picture and for their name.
We are close. Three more spots to go.
But we know from those ahead of us, the wait after referral is just as long.
As much as a year before travel.
It's hard to answer questions that are lovingly asked by our friends and family.
We don't know when we'll get a referral.
We don't know when we'll travel.
We don't know why it's taking so long.
I wish I did.
But I don't.
So I hold on to this promise that I was reminded of from reading the other day.
"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about the things we cannot see." Hebrews 11:1
The reality of the wait is disheartening.
So we hold on to Faith.
Faith that He is working even when it seems like He isn't.
Faith that He knows our children.
Faith that His timing is best.
We are so thankful for those who are walking through this journey with us, praying for us, encouraging us, and spurring us on. Forgive us when our responses are short to your questions. I wish we had more to share.
For now, we wait by Faith.
Choosing to trust that His hand is on this.
Love this, my heart aches as you still are waiting but so encouraged to hear your heart and all that Father is teaching you through this. It is so comforting to know that He has hand picked your children for you and in His perfect timing you will know. Until then...may you grow closer to Him as you cling to the One who gives you comfort! Lots of prayers!
ReplyDeleteI will be praying for you. I can't imagine such a wait... but soon I hope you will have your referral. The closer we get to traveling, the more time seems to slow down. It seems no matter what stage your in -- FAITH is always key -- because there is so many unknowns. "Faith that His timing is best" Sometimes it is a daily surrender. My God comfort the ache in your heart, as He only can do.
ReplyDeleteThree years ago my husband and I became foster/adoptive parents to two boys. Ages 2 & 4. This was to be a temporary placement, then six months past. Then we brought in thier two older sisters (7&10). Another year past. At 1.5 years the parents rights were terminated, the children were 'free to adopt'. That was a year ago. Finally, we are very close to our final court date. I know it seems that the waiting will never end. It seems like it is a hurry up & wait process, but in the end it's our family.
ReplyDeleteIt has been a bumpy, broken, emotional road, but God has been carrying us through all the way.
Just when we thought our family was complete we recieved a phone call for an 8 month old baby girl to join in our family, so we went from no children, to two, four, and now five. Thankfully we were blesed and I am able to stay at home with our children.
I admire you both for a newborn and working full time! I will be praying for you, there is nothing like the knowing of *your* child.