For the past 36 hours, I was blessed with the opportunity to attend my second Created for Care retreat for foster and adoptive moms.
Two years ago I went for the first time, prior to even knowing who Jenna was, and I left there feeling inspired by 400+ other moms with the same heart for orphans.
Last year I wasn't able to attend because we'd gotten home from China with Jenna just a few months earlier and she was still very afraid of her daddy, so leave her would've been traumatic for all of us.
But this year, because of the Lord's miraculous work, I was able to go back with a new perspective on "this side of adoption" and left with another inspiring message in my heart. Here's the message.
I. AM. ADOPTED.
This retreat was for ME. Yes, we adopted a precious little girl that needed a forever family and she is so amazing. But after all the worship, teaching, and fellowship this weekend, I left there knowing more than ever that I am also adopted by a loving, Heavenly Father that is continually, passionately pursuing my heart.
God writes great stories and His plans are beautiful, desiring us all to blossom into who He created us to be so that we can shout for joy and glorify Him. Amidst all the heartache, pain, confusion and chaos that life can bring, God isn't finished yet and His promise to complete the work He started is true. Our role is to grab onto His hand in total, utter dependence each and every step of the journey. He is a good Father and He longs for us to follow hard after His heart and rest in His amazing grace.
Just as I want our children to know they are loved beyond measure, God wants me to know this, too. The God of the universe has adopted me into His family and it's not based on what I do or don't do, but rather what Jesus did on the cross for me. WOW! This truth that is often hard for my heart to believe was impressed upon my heart fresh and anew this weekend.
I. AM. ADOPTED.
