Next week on Monday is a very important court date for Maria. I’ve got nervous anticipation and strong hopes that things will actually progress as planned. This is called the “two six” hearing that removes parental rights and begins our process of adoption. Billy defines adoption the best of any of us. “Where Maria will be us forever.” That says it all.

In the midst of a busy season and on the cusp of an even busier one, I am attempting to take tomorrow off to complete a playground set that I am building next to our schoolroom. As I put together the pieces with Billy, I imagine him playing out his childhood there with his cousins and friends and siblings. I hear the laughter of happiness. I see the beauty of friendship and family and belonging. I imagine Maria joining him soon once she’s got her running and climbing legs. I imagine the unknown faces of the children that God has destined for our family – perhaps some of them only for a season, but all of them of utmost value to us and to the Lord, their Creator. I hear their shouts of joy – I see them loving each other and thriving in our love. What a privilege to be his ministers to them for whatever time they are destined to be with us. I envision our home and farm being a place of redemption – a place where ugly beginnings have beautiful endings. God fulfill this work that you have created us for before the beginning of time. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Eph. 2:10, NIV) May your protection and favor fall on us as we snatch these children from the enemy and bring them to you. My heart overflows with joy as I contemplate the life that is in front of me. Amen.