Eli and the lessons I learn through his eyes...

Tonight, as I was having a small pity party for myself amidst our "challenges", (and the delivery of additional frustrating news) I noticed Eli was getting into some things in the family room I didn't want him playing in. I walked over, picked him up, and held him. He immediately melted down. He is eighteen months old and really wants to do exactly what he wants to do. What he saw as an opportunity to "climb" up on by the fireplace seemed to me, being the adult, as a dangerous thing to do and something that I knew he would get hurt doing. In his world, he didn't know better and threw a nice fit because I stopped him. As I sat down on the couch, trying to juggle him so he didn't fall out of my arms, I realized I was being like Eli. God has our family where He wants us and He has adjusted things lately or allowed certain things to happen according to His plan. According to my perspective, they seem terribly frustrating and nonsensical. God sees different. He knows differently. I just need to remember that when He picks me up and moves me that it's for my own good, even if all I want to do is "melt down". If you see me and I'm having a bad day- feel free to remind me of this. Blogging helps hold me accountable :).

Jeremiah 29:11    "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."

"God will Lend"

I'm so late in posting this update and for that, I'm sorry. Life has been VERY challenging lately (aside from adoption stuff) and although I hate being cryptic about life, for those of you that are aware of our struggles with Bank of America and our home (I'm not able to say too much in a public fashion because of legal reasons), we are very thankful for the continued prayers as we weave through the nightmare. If you don't know- PLEASE still pray for us. I know God has perfect timing and I know He is using this for good in His perfect timing. This is another time when I have to remember to praise God in the storm. My faith is definitely being tested. I got this message from a friend the other day and agree whole heartedly....

It is pretty evident that "someone" does not want you to go to China! Obviously, Jesiah is one special little guy; I would imagine that this little guy is going to do mighty things for the kingdom of God! This has been our theme song from the beginning.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iB-yX5p0p4I&feature=related This song was song on the streets of China and in taxi cabs . . . may the Lord and His strength well up in you and your family. You guys CAN DO THIS AND WILL!

I know looking back that we will understand, at some point, why we are experiencing the trials that we are. However, I know Jesiah  is coming here for the work of the Kingdom of God and I know God will bring Him here, in spite of the storms of life. I'm just praying I can keep focused and not lose hope altogether. It's frustrating. From one of my favorite songs by Mikeschair, I've found these lyrics especially encouraging. 

Don't know where to begin

It's like my world's caving in

And I tried but i can't control my fear

Where do I go from here

Sometimes it's so hard to pray

You feel so far away

I am willing to go where You want me to

God I trust You

[Chorus]

There's a raging sea

Right in front of me

Wants to pull me in

Bring me to my knees

So let the waters rise

If you want them to

I will follow You

I will follow You

I will follow You

Update.... 


Bao's American name, although I know I've already used it a few times (hopefully I haven't confused you too much) will be Jesiah. Interestingly enough, and not coincidentally I know, the name has two meanings I found to be neat. 1) God will lend   2) The Lord Exists. We know both of these to be true, particularly in this situation as God continues to reveal His hand throughout every facet of our lives. 


We found out he is almost 27 pounds and nearly three feet tall. He is almost as big as Kaylee- which is incredible. I guess we have super small children :). He is living with a foster family and has three other foster siblings. His foster sister is 15, one foster brother is 12 and he also has a foster brother that is 1 (Eli's age!). He shares a bed with his youngest foster brother and this news was exciting for us. He is going to share a room with Eli and will hopefully be used to not being the youngest. We were very encouraged by this news!!!


Here are a few new pictures that we were thrilled to get! We are STILL waiting on our "Letter of Approval" from China which is the next step for us. Until we get this paper, we cannot submit our paperwork to immigration for specific approval to adopt Jesiah. Times are getting longer and longer and although it's hard to have been waiting a solid six weeks (and we probably have several to go), God's timing is a resounding theme. We need to remember to "Be Still and know that He is God".