In Awe

It started raining as we were just getting into bed tonight.  I couldn't sleep.  Getting rain here must be a lot like a sunny day in Seattle!  I love the sound of rain hitting the windows and roof.  There's nothing quite like it.  It's soothing and exciting all at the same time.  It takes my mind off the craziness in life and yet keeps me from wanting to go to sleep in fear of missing a storm.  So instead of sleeping, I spent some time reading.

One of the things I read was the latest update from a blog I follow - "Our Adoption Faith Walk"  about an amazing baby girl Ember with an amazing story and the family who chose to follow and trust in God (even when it was FAR from easy!) and how He is using this tiny baby and this family's faith to do mighty things!

As I read this and listened to the rain (and bawled!) I couldn't help but be reminded of God's faithfulness.  It's so easy to get caught up in the here and now and forget to focus on something far greater!  We get to be part of God's bigger story.  I have to think about how I am allowing God to use me in His story rather than how I am allowing God to be used in my story.  In the end, His story is the one that matters. Not mine.  When I'm not giving up what I think I'm in control of, I'm not allowing God to use me for a greater purpose.  When I focus on the what-ifs, I'm neglecting to stand in awe of our Almighty God and trust He knows much more than I do.

I'm thankful for those moments when God smacks me upside the head and helps me to see beyond... well, ME!

I went into Ivy's room tonight and just stood over her crib.  Sobbing.  In awe.  In awe of how just over 5 months ago, her crib was empty.  In awe of this beautiful baby girl who was so fearfully and wonderfully made.  In awe of how God has allowed us to be her parents.  In awe of our amazing God who loves us so deeply.

As I have mentioned vaguely and briefly, this situation is a little sticky, so we ask you continue to be in prayer for Ivy, her birthmom, and us.  We KNOW God has a perfect plan - it's not our story.  It's HIS.