Family Fun... and a little romance
As Tiffany and I have contemplated this ministry these past several months, we have had so many emotions cross through our conversations together. There are times we feel very much inadequate, but God continues to draw us back to himself. As Tiffany and I draw nearer to one another, allowing God to work in us, we find great peace in knowing he will equip us with everything we need, and is equipping us already. Tough times may approach us, but also times of great blessing and joy.
Ever since the house parent ministry was presented to us, Tiffany and I have prayed that if it were of God that He would develop within us the heart of a father and a mother towards these boys. We understand the importance of guarding our heart and remembering we will never be the father and the mother to these boys that we are to our own children; however, the heart of a father and a mother is what it is needed to provide these children with the commitment, love, care and protection they so deserve.
While simply living life over these past few months, Tiffany and I have often talked about and imagined what our new family might be like: cooking together, cleaning together, getting ready for church and worshiping together, family meals, family discussions, movie nights, family vacation, and yes… even family arguments and disagreements. The new season is approaching; we can feel it in the air. While it pains us to leave our loved ones here, we are encouraged with the insight God has placed in our hearts of the new season approaching us.
My children are precious. April, Matthias and Alexander have walked with us each step of the way. We have wiped their tears and we have laughed in their excitement. To hear our child say, “I am going to miss my cousins and my aunts and uncles and my nana and poppa, my mima and pipa, but I am excited about Mexico, because I know God wants us there…” brings tears to my eyes. Overhearing April say to her mima during a conversation they were having this evening, “I think it’s going to happen real soon, mima. I think our house is going to sell very soon. I can feel it…” somehow brought it all together for me; the faith of a child…
As I enter into my prayer closet today, an aspect of reality has struck me; what seemed so distant is close upon us now. While I am excited to be united with our new family in Mexico, I am grieved by the distance that will come between us and those we love so dearly here. I am concerned for my children and the loss of their close ties to grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Up until this point, I have not mentioned my babies very much in writing, but I ask each of you to please lift them up to the Heavenly Father. Tiffany and I have faced this separation before, but our children do not fully understand. They are excited, and we believe and have seen that God has been working in their lives and hearts to help them understand, but they have not faced this kind of separation before. Pray also for those left behind.
We love you so very much, and we appreciate and depend upon your prayers more than you know. Be blessed, and thank you for your love for us and your continued support through prayer and giving.
In the Ministry of the Cross,
Matt, Tiffany and the kiddos
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