Our Crazy Family

Most of you know that I talk about my sister with great joy and pride; that is, the good kind of pride. I am proud of my sister and her faithfulness to God's call on her life, as a mother and nurse.

She married an amazing guy named Ryan, who we affectionately call "Bean." He is the coach of the boys in baseball and soccer.

My sister has one biological child named Noah, and three adopted children from Ethiopia. She is in the process of adopting two more siblings of two of the adopted children.

You can follow her blog here:

http://www.bringingmercyhome.blogspot.com/

Whenever I need some laughs or encouragement I talk to my sis and brother-in-law. Here's an email exchange from my sister, after I called and left her a voice mail from Kiev, asking if I was "crazy" for thinking about adopting four kids.

Sorry I missed your call; I was getting ready for work. Mom called me yesterday morning when I was getting ready and told me about the kids. She was super excited. I was shocked. Honestly, I thought you'd go over and get one baby and come home. LOL. So, when she told me, I cried off ALL my makeup and had to get ready all over again. (I'll get you back somehow for that ;)

As to the question of if you are crazy...yes, you are. But so was God to send his son. So was God to forgive us, to adopt us. So was Jesus to be murdered and homeless and penniless when he IS the LAMB OF GOD, CAME TO TAKE AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD. By living out a reckless faith, you are more Christ like than ever before. Your influence for the kingdom will grow. Many people will ask you "Why? And How?" You will have so many more opportunities to share the gospel. And of course, you will be giving a Mom and a Dad to 4 older children who otherwise might not ever get one. Someone always takes the babies. Most of the older children never receive homes. You are both still young enough to try for a baby, biological or otherwise.

"How can there be too many children? It is like saying there are too many flowers." Mother Theresa

I wish we all lived in the same area. It would be such fun to be Auntie Lisa and have Mom help with all the kids.

Love you both,

Lisa

And then "Bean" wrote me an email, as well:

What up brother. i second what your sister said. I couldn't have said it any better even if i wanted too. From a guy/dad perspective it is scary. The adoption processs has completely changed my outlook on life. it is no longer about getting a bigger house, bigger 401k (if possible), better car, having enough money to pay for college, it is now so much more about complete dependence on Him in everything. And the hardest place for me to depend on Him completely is finances. When you look at the numbers with one kid it looks scary but 2, 3, 4....it looks impossible and that is where we diminish and He shines!!! So keep swimming to deeper waters and go only where He can. Like Lisa said that is radical!!!!! I am so proud of you and honored to be your brother. Give your little lady a hug from us and we can't wait to see our nephews and nieces. i agree with lisa, i wish we lived closer together... so i could beat ya on the golf course.... :) ok maybe not..
Keep the Faith,
Bondo Green Bean

I love my sister and brother-in-law and ask that those of you who have been praying for me, would add them to your prayer list also. We did not set out to do anything like what we are doing. Sis went to adopt two boys, and it looks like it will turn into five. We set out with every intention to adopt 1, maybe 2, and are coming home (hopefully!) with 4. We are not trying to get attention, and we are not competing. We are only trying to be obedient and love with the "crazy" type of love the Father has shown to us in Christ Jesus.

God's love is deep, kind, radical, and patient. I am praying for God's patient love to pour through me as I wait on the end of this journey, and begin the journey of parenting with patient love. I will probably be making many more phone calls to my Sis and Bean.

Noah - left; Benium - Yankees Hat :( - middle; Derrara - right; and Mercy

Super Larry and Pizza and Ice Cream

Yesterday we met a new friend named Larry Guilford from Tampa, who works in real estate. He is actually from Detroit, and loves the Tigers! More importantly, he has been working in this region of Ukraine for about 5 years with orphans/orphanages. He is a local legend. You can check out his website at http://www.heritageoaksfoundation.com/. Larry is a very kind and generous man, who has given thousands of dollars to bring hope to orphans. In the picture above, we are in a hospital, where the little baby orphans go first. Sometimes they are found in trash cans, at local grocery stores, and various other places. Larry purchased the beds and some equipment for this hospital. Overall, he has given money for over 1400 beds at different orphanages, along with mattresses, windows, gym rennovation, etc.

He also bought our lunch yesterday saying, "It's my pleasure. You are adopting four kids. That's the best thing that can happen to these kids. I try to improve things a little bit, but having a family is the best possible thing that can happen." He also told us that he had a friend who wanted to adopt one of our children, but he is a single man and was not allowed. I told him that he could be an honorary uncle. And that we have many single friends!:) We all attended a program yesterday after lunch, put on by another orphanage with which Larry also works.
When Larry first arrived at the orphanage where our kids are at now, the director told him that they need "a toilet." He said, "You need a match. You should blow this up and start over." They had no real toilets; just a hole in the floor. They had no showers; just a hose. They had no hot water. He currently has several projects going on now to continue the rennovations.

For more on yesterday, see Kimberly's blog at http://www.betheglory.com/
Today was a first time experience.... We got to take the kids to eat pizza and ice cream! They had just returned from the doctor.The girls drank their juice and cokes with passion, and later enjoyed some sweets. James ate two pieces of pizza and told Papa that "Coke is my favorite. I had it once."

All things considered, the kids were terrific. This is the first time that we've had them outside the orphanage at somewhere other than court. Probably my highlight was seeing them share their food/drink, and praying together as a family for the first time at the meal. James made his prayer hands, and Victoria puckered up waiting to drink her juice as soon as we said amen.

We then dropped them off at the orphanage, after the girls put on some more lipstick of course. And bid them good-bye until tomorrow.

Day 7 of 10

We are in day 7 of day 10. For all our prayer partners, please pray that we will get our passports quickly, once we apply for them. We cannot apply until the ten day period is over, and we pick up the birth certificates (which will take us about 2-3 days to get). Once we get the passports, we will only need two days in Kiev, and the third day we can get on a plane. The passports can take between 4-10 days. If it is closer to 4, then we can get back before the 17th - which is my prayer.

For the scoop on yesterday, see Kimberly's blog www.betheglory.blogspot.com

It was a wonderful day with the kids. We are most blessed.

Kimberly and I also picked up some food at the market, or as they say in New Orleans, "We made some groceries." I'm excited about eating salad and soups and sandwiches - but not so excited about the squid flavored chips that I bought. It was a good idea at the time. Never shop on an empty stomach.

Today we are going to to a children's hospital to meet with a guy from the States and then we are headed to the orphange. They are supposed to have another "program." I hope this one is rated G.

An Electrifying 21st Day in Ukraine

For a moment I thought my hair was growing.

The shower this morning had an electrical shock going through it. Apparently, the hot water heater, which was situated on top of a piece of cardboard, on the floor, was not grounded. Consequently, I had to use another source of water. So I shaved in the kitchen sink, and Kimberly washed her hair there as well.

Just another day in paradise.

But the day got better. We met up with our friends, Joel and Mary Ellen, and a new friend, Dr. Stephen Davis. He is a very humble and wise and generous brother. He works with Baptists in Indiana. He actually knows my college roommate, Jamie, who pastors in Indiana.

Currently I’m on a train right now. A ten hour train ride. The train is like the Soviet Union in 1960. The décor has not changed since the former days. And it is hot. Very hot. I feel like I’m in a trunk of a car. But at least this is business class.

We are on our way back to the region where the kids are. Today is day five of the ten day waiting period. We will visit them the next five days, like our previous routine, and then pick up the official court decree. Following the court decree, we are free to take them out of the orphanage, but we probably will wait a few days because we still have some traveling to do. We have to go about 12 hours north to pick up the birth certificates, and then after getting the birth certificates, we go back to the orphanage region and apply for passports. We will then wait 4-10 days on passports. After passports, then we will pick up the kids and head to Kiev. At Kiev, we will do medicals one day, and then do some things at the US Embassy. Then we will get on a plane, hopefully by May 14-16, and fly directly to JFK. James will have his shirt on that we bought him “American Legend.” I will still be parting my hair the same way.

After lunch today, I preached at a church in Kiev, called God’s Touch. Kimberly sang a song that she wrote. She did fantastic. I preached (for under 45 minutes), on the doctrine of adoption and orphan ministry from Galatians 4:4-8; James 1:27. We had a wonderful time with our friends and enjoyed some pizza fellowship later. The pizza was good for Ukraine. The cigarette smoke, not so much. The cigarette smoke took me back to the bowling alley days, when I used to spend six hours every Friday night with my Dad. They also had a disco birthday party with some kids. I started to do a little ‘Barbourville bounce,’ but I stopped after receiving some weird looks.

Present at the worship service, were some neat folks. One was a lady who previously adopted two twins five years ago from Odessa. The boys were with her, speaking perfect English. She and her husband (who was sick in the room) is back to adopt a brother and sister. They met these two through an orphan hosting program in Birmingham. It is a similar program that some our friends are leading at Temple this summer. I am pumped about this program, and beyond thankful for those who are leading in it, and those participating in it. This adoptive mother also attends the church where one of my best friends pastors.

I also met a friend from Mississippi who is here on language study. His desire is to work with orphans/orphanages. He is really a humble brother with a big heart. I pray that he will learn the language quickly and be able to really care for the fatherless here in Ukraine. Even though he likes Mississippi State, the Lord will still use him.

Then there was a full Ukrainian gal, who helped with the worship leading, who graduated from Kentucky Christian University! You can’t make this stuff up.

After I preached tonight, our dear friend Ben showed a slide show of our kids. He’s the one who took the amazing photos at the orphanage. He’s the co-pastor of this church plant. He’s from England and his wife is Ukrainian. Behind the pictures was the song “On Christ the Solid Rock.” He then called us up and prayed for us. It was a tremendous blessing and encouragement. There is nothing like the body of Christ.

Speaking of the body of Christ, today was a big day for Temple. John Thomas preached in view of a call. I was just informed that the vote was very positive. Praise the Lord.

Blessed Be the Name of the Lord

Romans 12:15 - "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." Today my heart is filled with a mixture of emotions; that's the life of a Christian. I rejoice with John Thomas, and Temple as he preaches tomorrow in view of a call as our East Campus Pastor. Many of you have rejoiced with Kimberly and I over these four kids we are trying to adopt. I rejoice with Kimberly as she celebrates her wonderful dad's birthday today.

But I weep with others who weep today. My sister reported that her neighbor comitted suicide a few days ago; a 16 year old college baseball prospect was killed by a wildpitch; and many that I will not name continue to grieve over the passing of loved ones.

The book of Job offers hope to suffering saints. And John Piper's illustrated book has been re-released. Few people know about this book; it is not his most popular; but it is my favorite of Piper's. He basically puts the book of Job to his own poetry. Coupled with amazing pictures, this book will encourage the grieving and remind everyone the wonder of God's sustaining grace, and the testimony of a faithful saint who said, "The Lord gives, the Lord takes away; Blessed be the name of the Lord."
see: http://www.desiringgod.org/Store/Books/ByTopic/All/803_Job_DG_Illustrated_Edition/

Shopping at Mother Care

Yesterday, we went shopping, and I realize now that I may need an additional job. I had Wal-mart in my mind, but the price of clothes at Mother Care was not Wal-Martish. After forking over a substantial amount of money for some clothes for the kids, I had to go eat some comfort food: Sushi. The california roll and spicy salmon helped out. Later, my wife reminded me of many reasons why I should not be alarmed by this new reality.

I thought I would write some books to pay for this new lifestyle, but B&H told me this week that they were not interested in the two book proposals that I sent them. Perhaps I should propose another book entitled "I Adopted Four Kids - I May Be Crazy - Please Purchase Several Of These Books." :)

I have already come to grips with the reality that I will no longer play golf once a week, be flying to far away tropical places, be eating out very often, nor will I be buying things I don't need. These may actually be sanctifying decisions in my life.

But the sacrifices are worth it. There is nothing in the world like the joy of holding these kids. The price is worth the pleasure. It's all grace.

And as for shopping, it was actually fun. I don't like shopping, but I enjoyed shopping for the kids. It did feel a bit odd picking out denim jumpers and pink tights, but I got used to it. We still need backpacks and some pj's for James. The only pj's they had, had little fishes on them, and were unacceptable. I asked for black, but they didn't have any.

Speaking of care, I am very grateful to the Lord for my admin assistant Amy, who is taking care of so many things back at the office, and out of the office, like my dog Titus. We miss our house, friends, church, our office, and our dog greatly.

Fortunately, I have some good friends here in Kiev. We are spending the day with Joel and Mary Ellen again, as we continue the shopping for survival items. On Sunday, I am preaching at my friend Ben's church, in Kiev, and Kimberly is singing. These poor people have no idea how much pent up preaching I have in me right now. Coupled with the translator, it may take a while. I need to keep it short because we are getting on a train after the service, to go back to the region of the orphanage. We are waiting to give them their clothes, until we actually take them for good. That's still a few weeks away.

The Ten Day Wait Begins

I didn't blog yesterday because I was too tired, and we traveled most of the day. The lengnth of the trip wasn't due to Sasha's driving, though. He was going as fast as he could. He helps my prayer life.

To read about yesterday, read Kimberly's blog at http://www.betheglory.blogspot.com/

I will just mention one thing about yesterday. We visited another orphanage in need of many things. I highlight this orphanage because it is led by an incredibly competent and visionary director. The website for the orphanage is http://www.deti.zp.ua/

Can you imagine an orphanage of 140 boys and 25 girls, with no gym or playground? That's the case in this orphanage. We went to various rooms and the director showed me the vast needs: Chairs, Desks, Windows, Floors, Lighting/Electrical, Heating, Toilets, Professional Skill Development Tools, Playground Equipment, reconstruction of the gym (the health inspectors will not allow the kids inside the gym), etc. Where a playground could be

Some work has gone on recently, and the results are very impressive. If anyone is interested in helping an orphanage with facilties and material or even labor, this is an excellent option. I have the contact information of a foundation that money can be sent to, called "By Ways of Goodness" if you are interested.

A business man from Tampa has invested thousands of dollars and his own personal time to various orphanages in this region, and I hope to meet him on Monday. He could probably run for president here. At the orphanage from which we adopted, he has laid new floor, built new walls, and many other things himself.
In addition, of these 165 kids, 150 our up for adoption. We met several of them yesterday. They are adorable.

Today we are going to buy some clothes for our new four kids. I doubt that they will have Kentucky Wildcats stuff in Kiev, so we will probably buy that which is functional and modest. It should be fun. We are also going to spend some time with our missionary friends Joel and Mary Ellen. They are going to help us shop, and we are going to have sushi!

We are now in the waiting period. Following this initial ten day wait for the court decree, we will have to get passports and other things. We are praying for speedy processes, but all who know the system, know that this is the longest and hardest part of the journey. We are eager to pick up the kids, give them their new duds, and board a plane (hopefully an empty plane!).

"I Went to the Circus One Time" - And Several Other Memories from Court Today

First of all, court went terrific, and the judge gave us a positive decision. We have to wait for ten days, but fully expect to receive the decree, making it completely official by May 1. It was a day full of memories. Thanks too all who have been holding us up in prayer; we have sensed God's presence throughout this amazing journey.
The prosecutor, the orphanage director and the new family

We picked the kids up and they were dressed in their best. James' teacher was worried that he was not dressed up enough, but we assured her that he looked great. Then Kimberly put some lip gloss on the girls, and they were styling. We were off to the court house. When we arrived, we were forty-five minutes early, meaning that we had to wait in the car with these kids all that time! It was fun, sort of.

At about 9:50, we decided to make a bathroom run, and that's when the wheels almost fell off. To begin, it was the worst smelling area I may have ever been in. To make it worse, all three girls had to really go. Fortunately, Momma was running that show. James and I waited outside. However, I had to exercise a little discipline on one of the girls for banging on the door, while she was waiting on her sisters. She began crying, and we had not even been to court yet. The orphanage director assured her, "He's tough. That's good."

Angela Grace, age 7

After getting out of the bathroom, we took the kids to the court. They behaved like angels. Speaking of angels, Kimberly went first in stating her petition. She was a little slow out of the gate, but she finished very strong. The judge was favorable, and I think he liked Kimberly more than me, but then, so does everyone else. There is a reason why I call her "the best thing that's ever happened to me," and "my job security."

James Arthur, age 9

After she finished waxing eloquently, I stood up and had to speak to the judge, without using theological language like "the doctrine of adoption teaches...." or "the doctrine of the imago dei is...." I got right to the point and said, "Your honor, I believe every child on earth is valuable and deserving of a loving family. We believe that we can provide a loving family for these children. The world is full of orphans. And after studying all of the possible locations, and having traveled to Ukraine, and having interacted with adopted Ukrainian children, we believe that this is where we are supposed to be. And I would like to ask your kind permission to adopt these children, to change their names to James Arthur, Angela Grace, Jana Sophia, and Victoria Joy. And to change their birth certificates, making us the official parents of the children."

Next, the kids went one by one. The judge ask them things like "Do you want to go with these people? Where are you going? What are their names? (To which, James said, "Momma and Papa").

Victoria Joy, age 4

When he got to our smallest, Victoria Joy, he asked her, "Have you ever been anywhere outside of Mattveeka? She said, "I went to the circus one time." It was priceless. The whole court busted out into laughter.

The jurors asked a few questions, like "Will the kids have the opportunity to choose their own religion?" When I said, "Yes." The judge said, "Just believe in Obama and everything will be alright?!" And I said, "No comment."

Jana Sophia, age 6

The judge was professional, warm and had a good personality. He asked me, in the course of our conversation if I had a copy of my book with me. I told him that it would not be out until October, but I will bring him a signed copy if I can take these kids! I'm not sure if he will be interested in reading a book on expository preaching but I was throwing all my charm at him.

The prosecutor just kept going, "They're so young." But she too was very favorable in the end and very kind.

Oh yeah, the Judge asked Kimberly at the beginning, "Do you realize that your quiet life is now over?" Uh, yeah.

Tomorrow we are going to see the kids, and give them a new watch that we just bought for each of them. Then we are going to visit another orphanage that some friends are doing a camp at this summer. After this visit, we will go to Kiev for the weekend. We still have a long time here, to wait on the ten day period, to wait on passports after getting the birth certificates, and to wait on other stuff. It's pointless to try and predict when we will get home. I hope before Sunday the 17th. But maybe not.

On the positive side, we shouldn't have to go to court anymore, the girls won't have to use that bathroom anymore, and I can put my tie back in the attic.

More pictures will be on facebook.

Thanks again friends and family for your steadfast love, support, and prayers. The journey has just began; so please continue praying for us. For 8 years, I've just wanted to be a pastor, a husband and a father. I am a blessed man. God's grace gets bigger every day.

Of Lizards and Lip Gloss

When we went to pick up James from class, his teacher insisted that we take some pictures of the whole class. After some photos, she lined up the class to sing the "momma song." So about 11 kids stood there and sang their hearts out.

We then took James and Grace outside for bit, before going to get the younger two. When we got outside, James went and found his bow and arrow that he made out of a flexible stick and some string. It was quite impressive actually. He then proceeded to shoot at various objects. I think he will like Hattiesburg. I should probably drop him off at our music minister's house for a weekend so he can learn how to kill ducks.

Meanwhile, while James and I were outside playing Lone Ranger and Tonto, Kimberly took Grace upstairs. When we finally rejoined them, Grace was graciously sharing her coco puffs with a group of kids huddled around a cartoon.

As the hour approached, two boys a few years older than James came to the room to show off their new pet lizard. Of course, our two kids loved the lizard, and wanted Kimberly and I to pet it. After the little ones joined us, they too wanted to play with the lizard. So, with coco puffs in one hand, a cartoon blaring in the background, and a lot of loud Michael Jackson like screams from the girls, this little geico was being chased around a dirty floor.

After swinging the little ones around for ten minutes or so, we were told that it was now time for dance practice. A gal from outside the orphanage came to do the weekly dance instruction. Apparently, Grace is one of the dancers. However, we think Joy, the 4 year old, may be the best dancer. (She doesn't, however, have the best manners yet! She puts her coco puffs on the floor and guards them, while eating them one by one, but occasionally shares one with papa).

Before we told them bye, Kimberly put some lip gloss on the girls. They loved it. That was probably Kimberly's highlight. They did look sweet; our translator even began to cry.

Once again five o'clock came very early. Grace and James walked us out to the car once again, opened the door for us, and then kissed us good-bye. When we drove off, they stood at the gate waving.

Before we got to the car, I told James to pray for us tomorrow because it was a big day. The big day of course is court. In fact, we were told an hour ago that the kids will actually being going to court with us. I hope they don't bring the lizard. Court is scheduled for 10:00 am (8 hours ahead of central time).

If all goes welll, we will be posting pictures on the blog for the following days. You can see some pictures of the kids that have been entrusted to our care, by a good and wise Heavenly Father.

Resources for Parents

I mentioned yesterday a new book by Rus Moore called Adopted for Life, which will no doubt give a lot of answers to questions about both the doctrine of adoption and the human act of adoption.

I would like to mention another resource for parents, as well. One of Moore's collegues, Bruce Ware, is one of the top five theologians in America (in my humble opinion), and definately in my denomination. He has written numerous books on matters such as the Trinity. Recently, Ware produced a book on teaching theology to your kids called Big Truths for Young Hearts. You can read about it here: http://www.crossway.org/product/9781433506017

I can't wait to read it. Apprently, the foreword was written by his children. They say things like “Dad really believes the things that are in this book.” And, “To parents: it may sound cliche, but we followed our father’s teaching in part because he practiced what he preached.” What a great statement about Ware.

One more thing before I go off to the orphanage today....

Many people often have questions about "transracial" adoption. Below is an instructive video from Moore about a Christian understanding of this issue:

A Song to Momma

Before we arrived to this region of Ukraine, James' teacher encouraged him to sing a song one day. According to her, he refused because he didn't believe the song would come true.

The song was about having a mother.

Today, James brought his new mother (Lord willing) an Easter egg and a card. He came out with a huge smile and said "Momma." He looked with great delight as his momma was overjoyed by her son's gift that he received at a worship service today.

James was back to "normal" today. He spent most of the day at my side, playing with my go-tee, taking pictures with our camera, begging with puppy-dog eyes to take "one more." He was also given a treat today by his teachers: chocolate. He shared his chocolate with his momma and papa.

We also showed him some more pictures of our home, church, family, and other sites. He is eager to get to the Hub City!

He also protected his sister Grace today. One little dude was giving her grief, and James, who was sitting beside me, walked over deliberately, not maliciously, and grabbed the boy by the neck, and when the boy let go of Grace, James just walked back over and sat down beside me, and continued working on his book of stickers like it was no big deal.

Meanwhile, the little ones were asleep, but they soon arose later to join the party. We eventually made our way to a downstairs room full of work out machines, and toys. It was crazy, but lots of fun.

Two hours flew by today. It was Easter Sunday here in Ukraine, and it was a special day for us as a family. Tuesday is court, and we hope it is official then. Thanks for your prayers friends. And please pray for these other 200 kids who cannot sing about a "momma" because they are filled with doubt, fear, and despair. May they find their hope ultimately in Jesus, and penultimately in a loving family.

Speaking of the need for more adoptions, my friend Russell Moore just published a book that I've been anticipating for some time called Adopted for Life. Moore, a theologian who preaches at Highview Baptist and teaches at Southern Seminary in Louisville, has personally adopted two boys from Russia. Here is John MacArthur's review of Moore's book:“Russell Moore has out of personal experience and with biblical accuracy produced in this work an understanding of God’s purposes in adoption and its connection with gospel compassion. Every pastor should consider the responsibility he has in making adoption a priority for the church as a viable representation of gospel doctrine of adoption.” ─John MacArthur, Pastor, Grace Community Church

The Gospel Coalition — Live Webcast

I was signed up for this conference with a few of our pastors, but in light of the adoption journey, I will not be able to attend. I was excited today to find out, however, that it will be available on live webcast at Christianity Today. If you are able to hear a few messages (the speakers are walking through 2 Timothy), I'm sure you will be enriched and blessed. You can get an email reminder at Christianity Today and find out more about their gracious ministry here: http://www.christianity.com/gospelcoalition/

Easter Eggs and Cheerios

I think we need to order a truck load of Cheerios for the girls. They went crazy over them. It was nice for us because they don't contain chocolate, so the drama was kept to a minimum.

Usually, at 3:00 the older two have a snack. I went in the cafe yesterday to see what the snack was. It was bread and milk. Bread and milk everday at 3:00.

We also played a great game of find the Ukrainian Orthodox Easter eggs. The girls also loved this. Then we put stickers on the eggs. All of this was led by Kimberly, of course. I acted like a dad and took pictures of everything. Of course, some stickers ended up on dad's forehead. I think my head has become a toy now. We learned that the girls are very "tame" when they have a project to do. And they are very sweet. So I will make sure they have lots of eggs and stickers.

James was really quiet today. I don't know what was up. He said it wasn't us, but that something happened. I'm not going to be too concerned about this as for now. It is the first day any of them have acted like this. He told us later that he was going to church tomorrow. Perhaps a good worship service will change him.

I pray for all of these kids that they will learn to seek first the kingdom. May God open up their hearts to understand and respond to the Gospel. I pray that more than anything that they will grow up and serve the Savior. Plus, it's not good for a pastor to have four midget-demons running around the church!

All in all, it's been an incredible week. God's grace has been sufficient in numerous ways. Today makes 14 days in our journey. Tuesday is court. Then on Thursday Kimberly and I are taking a train overnight up to Kiev to do some shopping, and to lead worship for a church. Then we will be back to get the kids, (10 days after court). Pray that all of the paperwork gets completed. And we can get a direct flight to JFK, and that we have enough Cheerios for the trip.

Treasures: Upcoming Proverbs Series

For the Temple folks, you know that we will begin studying Proverbs on May 3. We initially wanted to do Ephesians after our Christos study, but we felt like August would be a better time to start Ephesians. Proverbs is great for the summer because each sermon can "stand alone." Since the summer time is a time for a lot of mission trips, vacations, and such, I thought it would be wiser for us to deal with a book that required less continuity from week to week. Of course, I think every week will be exciting and powerful, but you will not have to do a lot of catch up if you miss a week. Below is a little introduction that I just finished typing. I look forward to studying with you this summer. In the meantime, I am praying for the pastors who will be preaching in my absence and for Jesus to be exalted in our corporate worship times.


TREASURES Overview.doc

Another "Program" - But This One Was Different

When they told us that James and Grace were upstairs, and that we couldn't see them until the "program was over," I had mixed emotions. I had a friend with me today. While it would have been funny for Ben to see the Egyptian boy-band performers, I was hoping for everyone's sake that this program would involve modestly dressed performers.

It was actually led by a Baptist Pastor. And he had clothes on. In fact, he presented the Gospel with the help of some of the students. Even more, James and Grace sang in the program about how "Eesues" is risen. It was awesome. I teared up thinking about the beauty of this picture. A faithful pastor unknown to most of the world, spent a lot of time and effort to present an Easter program to kids who need hope. He got no great ovation. No honorarium. No book signings. Just the personal joy of being obedient. So I told him, in street talk, "Just keep doin' what you do."

The program was filled with songs, skits, and a final message. The kids heard the Gospel. And you never know what might happen in a kid's heart when the Gospel is presented. It is the power of God unto salvation.


I talked to this pastor later and he told me that he takes a bus load of kids to church every Sunday about five miles from the orphanage.

After this, we went up stairs and the youngest ones, freshly up from a nap, joined us. Here they came, carrying everything we've given them so far. Their arms were full of pens, paper, and stuffed animals. We thought it would be the normal "hour of power," but we were mistaken. I guess since it is Easter here in Ukraine this weekend, the kids got to run free in the afternoon. So they all ran crazy like John and Peter when they ran toward the tomb.

Kimberly and I tried the man-to-man defense, but it didn't work. We went to a zone coverage, but they out shot us. We tried to do a full court press, but we ran out of gas.

It was an absolute zoo. And I loved it. It was my favorite day (I know, I say this everyday).

There were some special moments. We colored today, and one picture in the book was of a bald guy, and they all said "Papa." Then, Joy, our youngest - who may be a ballet star - drew a go-tee and giggled.

Meanwhile, Ben took pictures of the party. We will show you later.

After 45 minutes or so, we lost James. Then he appeared holding a handfull of freshly picked flowers for "Mama." It was sweet.

Later, we worked on some more words. Today, James said "Merida" very well. He actually said it much better than some folks from my home turf, who used to pronounce our name "Murdy."

When all was over, and the smoke cleared, we walked the little ones back to their room (filled with 22 beds). They gave us hugs and kisses, and didn't want us to leave. Then James met us right before we left for another good bye. He came running and smiled and hugged, and ran back, like a kid at Christmas. Two hours goes by fast. I hope I have the same feeling on the plane ride home - for everyone's sake.

'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, Casting Crowns

A Great Hymn to Hum through the day.... off to the orphanage

Jumping Rope, Gummy Bears, Photos, and Worn Out Shoes

I think it's time for Grace to get some new shoes. The poor girl's shoes are no different really than the others. They are worn out. You can imagine what it was like when we showed them some pictures today of their new home, bedroom, grandparents, dog (Titus), their long trip ahead of them to Miss, and their preaching papa and singing mama. They had big eyes and many questions, except four our four year old who was more concerned how to get her gummie bears in her dress pocket. Each of them, of course, want their own computer and cell-phone, but that's not happening.

After showing them some pictures (we didn't show them everything yet), Grace asked if we had "jump ropes." I laughed because of a recent sermon I preached on the work of the Holy Spirit - jumping rope for Jesus :).

James began pronouncing the state of Miss. and other words, like Titus, baseball, church, and Jesus (hopefully, those who be in reverse order in his life).

Joy, our four year old, may be a soccer star. I spent some quality time with her kicking the ball and eating gummy worms. She is a little independant girl who loves to run and giggle.

Meanwhile, a little guy just sat upstairs and watched us all day. I wanted to put him in Kimberly's purse and take him home. I have pictures, but Kimberly wouldn't let me post them.

Tomorrow our friend Ben will be joining us. He is taking a train tonight from Kiev to our area, and will take some pictures. He and the people at our adoption agency, Lifeline, are the greatest. Ben wants to talk about Proverbs and about having me come and preach next Sunday at his church in Kiev, called "God's Touch." It is a new church plant with about 40 young professional-types. When I think about my new friends that I've met here, I think about Prov. 27:10 - "Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away."

It's getting harder and harder to leave the kids each day at 5:00. We desperately want to clean them up and give them some new gear, but it will have to wait. Court is on Tuesday, and then we will wait 10 days before we can bring them home. They told us today that the kids cry at night wanting us to take them, and everyday they ask, "Will you come tomorrow?" Soon we will take them home, and then we can work on shoes and the English alphabet.

Lotion, Sunglasses, Piggy-Back Rides, and Puritans

We spent about 2 hours with our youngest two girls this morning. This was the first time that Kimberly and I got to spend some undivided attention with just the two of them. It was awesome. The girls rode on our backs, jumped in our arms, ran down the halls, and played hide-seek in the rooms. They also posed for pictures wearing Kimberly's sunglasses. I have a photo of Joy, our 4 year old on my wallpaper now. I'm putting a different child on my computer home page every day to pray for them particularly.

Later, our 7 year old, Grace joined the party and it was sweet to cradle her and talk to her. We had not had that special time yet. So far, she's been occupied with Momma. But today, it was Papa's turn. Then all of a sudden, Kimberly opened the lotion, and it was on. The girls begin to put lotion all over my head and laugh and giggle. I actually needed it, since I didn't take a bath today. It felt nice.

Later, James met us in the courtyard for a brief visit, and we opened up the calendar and pointed at the number of days remaining before we can go get them. Everyone is ready for that day.

When Kimberly and I returned and finally got in our apartment (see www.betheglory.blogspot.com) we went to eat and do some shopping. We found the little ones a watch, but still need to find the older two a watch. James, whose favorite color is black (seriously), said that he wanted a watch "like papas." Soon, he will be quoting John Piper and Saint Augustine :)

This evening I've been studying for a few hours, and sipping my new favorite instant coffee. I've been looking at sermon 3 and 4 in the Proverbs series coming up. One is on Trusting God (Prov. 3:5-6) and the other is how not to be an idiot (or how to avoid sexual immorality) (Prov. 5-7).

I also finished reading one of my Puritan books. I brought three Puritans along for this pilgrimage. I am reading John Owen's On Communion with God, re-reading Richard Baxter's The Reformed Pastor, and just finished Jeremiah Burrough's The Rare Jewel of Christian Contenment. Each book was first published in the 1600's. (the Puritans are those Christians who departed from the Church of England in the 1600's. They branched out eventually into numerous streams of evangelicalism).

Regarding Burrough's book, he said that he wanted to write this book in light of the "sad and sinking times." So he purposed to talk about the excellence of finding your contentment ulimately in God and avoiding the sin of "murmuring" (complaining).

He admits that some people are weak and under serious situations that may give way to more understandable complaints. But many are quick to complain about day-to-day frustrations and aggravations that are not as big as we make them out to be. I found it fitting that I was reading about complaining when I observed it my kids and in their daddy (particularly, when he was locked out for an hour).

Among the many convicting things he said about murmuring, he said, "To murmur when we enjoy an abundance of mercy... is an abominable thing; the greater and the more abundant the mercy that we enjoy, the greater and the viler is the sin of murmuring."

I don't know about you, but I have experienced an abundance of mercy. And I'm not just talking about this opportunity to adopt kids. I have been adopted personally by a God who loves me with an everlasting love. My Heavenly Father did not rescue me from an earthly orphanage, where I wear the same clothes, eat the same food, sleep in a room with 22 kids, and live my life by the order of a bell - that's a bad life to be sure.

But God has rescued me from a situation of much deeper depravity. Paul said that our condition was one of "death, sin, worldliness, rebellion, evil, disobedience, lusts, wickendness, seperation, hopelessness, and wrath" (Eph. 2:1-3; 11-13). But then, he adds "But God.... being rich in _____" what?.... mercy. God is rich in mercy and has saved us.

So to complain over things that are small, when God has saved us and adopted us forever, is a really terrible thing to do, a really vile thing to do.

Burroughs adds an illustration: Suppose God gives a woman a child who has all his limbs and parts complete, a child who is very comely, with excellent gifts, wit and memory, but maybe there is a wart growing on the finger of the child, and she murmurs at it, and, Oh, what an affliction this is to her! She is taken up with it, that she forgets to give any thanks to God for her child, and all that the goodness of God to her in the child is swallowed up in that. Would you not say that this was folly and a very great evil in a woman to do so?"

God has shown us infinite mercy. He accepted us warts and all when we were unlovable. May we never forget God's mercy toward us. May His mercy make us humbly grateful not grumbly hateful.

When Are You Going to Take Us From Here?

So, here we are back at the ranch. It's actually an apartment 30 minutes away from the orphanage. We just got back from dinner at a cafe. It is always fun ordering food when you know 9 words. Fortunately, I can point and say "chicken" and "Sprite" or "coffee and chai."

If you are interested, I was thinking about how to explain the area to Americans. I think the apartments remind me of Chicago, the roads remind me of Detroit, the industrial buildings make me think of Pittsburgh, the houses make me think of Eastern Kentucky, the soil and agriculture reminds me of the Mid-west, and the weather reminds me of New York. The amount of people smoking reminds me of a bowling alley. The customer service reminds me of New Orleans. But I'm having fun with this little description. We love Ukrainians. And everyone we have worked with so far have been extremly thoughtful and kind.

Today's visit to the orphanage was our favorite so far. Each day gets better and better. We spent about three hours at the orphanage today. The first 45 minutes we spent talking to the orphanage director. She was so excited, or at least pretended, that I was a pastor. She said she had nothing to worry about now. She told us that I am the third pastor to adopt from her orphanage, one was from Florida and the other from Texas. I then told her that our church will have several Ukrainian kids in families. She was excited about that. She then asked about the Miss. river and if we had aligators. She also told us that 50 students have been adopted from her orphanage since September, including an entire first grade class, except for one student (I know it's sad... somebody go get him; we're maxed out).

Kimberly and I then played with James and Grace on the playground. They played on the slide, in the dirt, and with a beetle. They picked up the beetle, looked at it and then gave it a nice home in the grass.

Then we split them up and I took James. He is all boy. He showed me how he could flip on the monkey bars and stay balenced on the beam. We also shot basketball (even though we didn't have a real ball). He's got some athletic ability. He also likes to play soccer. And he's got some speed.

After an hour outside, we went upstairs and met up with the younger two, who just woke up from their naps. We drew pictures of everyone's feet, and I drew a picture of every person and a picture of our house, our church, and our dog. They were all excited to see themselves in the picture. It is the first time that my drawing skills were productive. After drawing a picture for Sopphia, Kimberly came back and said, "oh did Sopphia draw this?" I said "no, it was papa."

After a long day and some hugs and kisses and photos, James asked "When are you going to take us from here?" We had to tell him that it will be about a week or so hopefully. And then a few more weeks before we go to our home.

In just a short amount of time the kids have already grown attached to us, and us to them. Please pray for all the details to be worked out so that we can return as quickly as possible (for specific ways to pray see Kimberly's blog at http://www.betheglory.blogspot.com/

Speaking of kids, Kimberly's sister just had a third baby, Solomon James. We praise God for a healthy baby. Holidays are going to be wild on both sides of our family!

Orphans, Flowers, Court Dates, and Belly Dancers

It is never dull when we go to the orphanage. For one thing, we have four kids. I searched on-line to find a family the age of Kimberly and I who adopted four kids, having none previously, but found none. I'm sure they exist. I don't think we fit the normal profile of the typical family who adopts four kids. In fact, twice today people at the orphanage asked us "Now, how old are you?" And, "Do you have kids already?" To which we said, "Nope. Just thought we would would start with four." Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever fit the profile of a pastor either. I suppose I'm just being consistent.

When we first arrived today at the orphanage we were told that a program was going on. So we were instructed to go sit in this crowd of 150 kids. We sat on row 3... in the gym. Our oldest two, James and Grace, were on the first row; and they behaved really well, sang and clapped and interacted with their peers. It was good to see them with their classmates. They kept turning around and laughing and smiling. I also got to play with some boys in front of me who kept saying "Hello America."

Then the dancing started. The purpose of the dancers was to teach "geography." The mc would introduce the show girls and they would wear the native dress and perform the native dances. I think it was a very exciting geography class for the older students. At one point, Kimberly told me that I could not watch. So I just read my Russian-English book. Since I already know geography, it is better for me to learn languages.

It was a bit awkward to say the least. The kids sang children's songs in between the dancing girls, and that part was sweet. Then, the girls would come back out and do their thing, accompanied by some boy-band dancers. I thought I would not see boy-band dancers in Ukraine, but they are unfortunately everywhere. The fall of man affects the world.

After five or six countries, I was hoping for some Amish dancers, because at least then they may have on a denim jumper and a dollie. But modesty was not on the program.

After the dancing girls represented a few countries, a magician/warrior came out to do some tricks with ropes and scarfs. His first demonstration was performed to the song "I just called to say I love you... and I mean it from the bottom of my heart." His tricks were cool and most of all, he was fully clothed.

Two hours later, the show was over and we all left. Kimberly and I said bye to James and Grace, jumped in the car and went to sign more papers and get a court date.

Our court date is set for Tuesday, April 21. We then wait 10 days before custody. Then we will return to Kiev to work on medicals, visas and passports. After those two or three days we will hopefully get on a plane and return. But nothing is certain in this process, except that nothing is certain.

After getting a court date, we returned back to the orphanage for about 45 minutes to play with the other two kids, Joy and Sopphia. Of course, James and Grace joined us.

The kids are really starting to warm up to us; though they are indeed a handful. A few highlights today included Grace putting Kimberly's glasses on and saying "Momma." James and I through a ball around today and we watched him plant flowers. I was excited about his flower-planting skills, since my yard needs a lot of attention. Sopphia sketched a house, and Joy didn't hurt herself jumping on all the beds in the room. We also have lots of pictures because they each love the camera.

When it was time to leave, they each gave us hugs and a few kisses, and went on their way. We are anxious to get custody and give them some new clothes, shoes, and a good cleaning. Many think these kids are the "lucky ones" but I'm learning that we are the "lucky ones."

When we returned to our town, our driver took us to the grocery to get some soup, chocolate, water, juice, and bread. We then hit a McDonalds drive thru. I felt like I was in college again. Speaking of college, I should go now, and start saving for college. I've got four kids. Unbelievable. You can't make this stuff up.

He is Risen

A Little Easter Greeting

"The tomb is empty; the rest is just small stuff" - Sis

Another Good Visit

Today we visisted the kids and signed some more paper work. The process is going really fast so far; we are in a good region to get things done. We are hopeful that we will be back for worship by May 10.

James wrote his little letter saying that he wanted to be adopted; it was sweet.

We also played with the kids today for about an hour. I asked James at one point, "Do you know what a Pastor is?" He said, "He is responsible to work for the church." I liked not only his answer, but that he also knew the word "responsibility."

He then proceeded to tell Sasha, my personal Nascar driver and translator, that some "believers came to the orphanage last summer and talked about Jesus." I was thrilled at many levels to here this.

I then asked him, "Do you know who Jesus is?" He said, "He is the Son of God." Sasha said, "Wow! Good Answer.... He sounds like Simon Peter making the great confession."

I then asked him, "Do you have a Bible?" He said, "Yes. And I can read." I told him we would read the Bible together.

Meanwhile the three girls were doing flips on the couch and creating a bit of drama. Kimberly, aka Drama Momma, had a sweet moment, when Grace naturally and quietly said, "Momma, look at this [she was drawing]."

Then the kids went to eat lunch and we did more paperwork, ate pizza, bought a boiler so we can drink coffee, and got some ham/cheese and pringles for a few meals. We came to our flat and went flat on the bed for a nap. Tomorrow we are off for rest and worship, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, who is indeed, the Son of God.

A Very Good Friday

I woke up at 2:00 AM and had some great quiet time before leaving at 5:30 AM to visit an orphanage some five hours away. I thought I would sleep on the ride, but my facilitator, a true Ukrainian, was driving... so I just continued in prayer.

I knew it would be an emotional day when I cried twice on the way to the orphanage. The thought of kids hiding their food, having no Christmas with family, not playing football in the backyard on Thanksgiving, not getting dressed for church on Sunday, having no parents to read the Bible to them at night, etc... just broke me. We couldn't get there fast enough. But Sasha was trying.

As we finished our legal appointments first, we made our way to the orphanage. It was a very humble building (I will show pictures later, once we get through the process). We approached the door and was greeted by the director. She was one of a kind; a very direct, tough-love kind of Ukrainian. She proceeded to take us upstairs and tell us that the kids were all healthy and doing very well in school, etc. You would think they were all ready for the Scripps Spelling B. She boasted that in all of Ukraine, her kids are the best; and that they will learn English in 3 months!

Did I mention that I'm talking about 4 kids? Three girls, Joy (age 4); Sophia (age 5); Grace (age 7); and James (age 9). They are all biological siblings.

I will never forget seeing them walk in. I will save our dialogue for later; it was priceless. We gave them some candy; stuffed animals for the girls, and a toy Volvo for James (he will probably only have toy Volvos in the future).

After playing for about 45 mintues, and receiving report on their health from the doc; the director asked the kids if they would like to go to America with us and become our new children. They each said yes. We hugged them; and they left.

The inspector asked us how we felt. Without looking at Kimberly, I said, on a scale of 1-10... 11. I mean, answering the question, "Would you like to adopt them," was like asking me, "Tony, do you want to eat today?" Of course. It was an automatic desire that I had for these kids that prompted an obvious answer.

Probably may favorite part of the day was when we were leaving, walking down the hall, James came out of his classroom and grabbed Kimberly by the hand. He said to his teacher, "Let me show you my new momma." The teacher went on and on for minutes about James. He can draw, paint, organize, sing, play football, etc. She was a special lady. And I wish you could have seen this 2nd grade class of boys and girls. I wanted to take them all home.

By the way, before we went to the orphanage, the inspector told us that next week the children were going to begin the process of being put in a foster home. The Lord got us there right on time. Thanks to Sasha's driving.

Do we have concerns? Sure. Are we crazy? Yes. In fact, I asked my sister if I was crazy for adopting four kids, and she quoted Mother Theresa, "How can there be too many kids? That's like saying there's too many flowers." She also reminded me that the Father's love in sending His Son on good Friday, is also, crazy love.

I know nothing about taking care of three little girls; and we don't know how to speak the language to the kids - that's a problem. But we are grateful that the Lord has opened this door for us to love these kids and give them a loving family. We did not come here intending to adopt 4 kids, or kids of this age. Our plan was to adopt 2 under 5! But the Lord had other plans.

We are so grateful for your prayers and support, friends. We experienced a profound sense of peace and discernment. We still need your prayers and help.

Happy Easter.

All praise to the Risen Savior

Loving and Being Loved

Kimberly and are leaving this morning at 5:45 to go visit an orphanage. We are extremely excited about our future family; but are trying not to get too high or too low. There are still some questions that need to be answered. What we are sure of is that orphans need love, and so today is ministry to orphans.

I was reading Confessions by Augustine this morning and was reminded of his great phrase, "The greatest thing in the world is to love and be loved." Everyone longs to be loved.

Show someone the love of the Father today, by living like the Son, by the power of the Spirit. And receive the love of God by abiding in the Father, through the Son, by the Spirit.

Pray without Ceasing

The Daily Bible Reading Plan had me in 1 Thessalonians 5 today. I love the ending of this letter. It focuses on relationships within the church. Paul first instructs the church how they should relate to their leaders (5:13): respect, love, and esteem. He then instructs the pastors how to relate to the flock: admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with them all (5:14). Next, he instructs everyone to do the following:

15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.

The oft quoted verse 17 leaped off the page to me this morning. We are a few hours away from looking through the files of the potential kids. As we go through this process, we will be "praying without ceasing." In the excellent commentary (and affordable one - especially the CD), The Bible Expositors Commentary, Robert Thomas says of the word for "ceasing" or "continually"

"Adialeiptos ("continually"; cf. Rom 1:9; 1 Thess 1:2, 3; 2:13) does not mean some sort of nonstop praying. Rather, it implies constantly recurring prayer, growing out of a settled attitude of dependence on God. Whether words are uttered or not, lifting the heart to God while one is occupied with miscellaneous duties is the vital thing. Verbalized prayer will be spontaneous and will punctuate one's daily schedule as it did Paul's writings (3:11-13; 2 Thess 2:16, 17)."

Today will be day for us, as Thomas puts it, of "recurring prayer, growing out of a settled attitude of dependence on God." We are utterly dependent upon our Abba Father in this process today.

Of course, every day should be one in which our "miscellaneous duties" are punctuated with periods of prayer. I pray that your day will be one of "praying without ceasing" as well, as we seek to glorify our redeeming Savior.

Father, you have made us for yourself. And our hearts our restless until they find their rest in You. You have tranformed us through Christ. You have uprooted guilt and replaced it with joy; you have cancelled our debt and given us the merits of Christ; you have freed us from slavery and made us your sons and daughters. How can we ever thank you enough? Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called the children of God. And that is what we are, because of Christ and through Christ. Grant us wisdom today; as Sheba stood before Solomon and beheld his wisdom, we stand before the God of Solomon, and Jesus Christ who is greater than Solomon; give us the mind of heaven today we pray, Amen.

God, Marriage, and Family (and Chocolate Covered Pretzels, and Calvin and Calipari)

As Kimberly and I await our plane to Amsterdam, I’ve been reading a theologically rich book called God, Marriage, and Family. In addition, I’ve been wearing my glasses, trying to look intelligent, since I will soon have to go before a judge and tell him that I am a responsible citizen with good sense, even though I look like I own a tattoo parlor; and to please grant me the privilege of being a father. Meanwhile, my much more prepared wife, Kimberly, is studying Russian and eating chocolate covered pretzels. She enjoyed them a lot more after I gave her a neck massage. What can I say, the book is changing me. You wives should buy it for your husbands for Father’s Day. (And she gave me some pretzels).

While Kostenberger and Jones do not write exhaustively on adoption, they do take up the matter of having children and provide a brief biblical foundation for adoption. They reminded me of several important adoptions in biblical history, including:

• Jacob adopted Dan and Naphtali (Gen. 30:1-8 [through Bilhah]); Gad and Asher (30:9-13) [through Zilpah]; Manasseh and Ephraim (48:5 [Joseph’s sons]). Jacob’s adopted sons were given full rights of the inheritance, just as his biological sons who came through Leah and Rachael.
• Moses was adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter (Ex. 2:10);
• Esther was adopted by Mordecai (Est. 2:7)

Most importantly, Jesus was adopted by his father Joseph. The Gospels note at least four significant things Papa Jo did: (1) He participated in the naming of Jesus (Matt. 1:25); (2) He presented Jesus in the temple (Luke 2:22-24); (3) He protected Jesus from danger by fleeing to Egypt (Matt. 2:13-15); and (4) He taught Jesus a trade.

I just gave Kimberly this list and told her about Joseph’s adoption, albeit a much different one and much more important one. She asked me, “What trade will you teach our son?” To which I said, “I will teach him how to trade baseball cards.” My son will need other men to teach him how to do all the many things I am incompetent to do; namely, yard work, landscaping, electrical work, construction, pottery, mechanics, computers, tech, cooking, cleaning, farming, and of course, curling. I will teach him the five fundamentals of hitting and fielding and how to keep his right arm tucked for a jump shot (but I can’t teach him how to jump). I can also teach him how to develop an hour long sermon that will put a charismatic asleep. Other than that, he’s going to need to pick a few things up. I told you Kimberly was more equipped than I.
We have also been in the process of naming our kids, even though we cannot actually make a decision until we see the kids. However, we both love James (since that was the book of the Bible we were studying when we decided to adopt kids, and the book that contains our role as Christians to care for the orphan, 1:27). We also love Lydia, who was the first convert in the church in Philippi. And we love Anna Sophia, since Sophia means wisdom, and we will be in Proverbs when I get back.

But I also love the name Calvin. I gave Kimberly several reasons, like it is the name of one of the greatest theologians in history, John Calvin, who was a Bible expositor, a teacher of kids, and a brilliant reformer. This year is Calvin’s 500th birthday. Calvin would be a better name than Darwin, who turned 200 this year – though I think the two probably celebrated their birthdays quite differently. Further, “Cal” is short for Calvin, and Cal Ripken was the embodiment of faithfulness, setting the major league record for most consecutive starts in history – plus he played God’s favorite position, shortstop. Finally, “Cal” is short for John Calipari, who just became the new coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, and who will most certainly bring the Cats back to the top. Couple this providential list with the fact that we are in Memphis, the city Cal left to go to Lexington, much like we will leave here to go build our new future, and it seems like all signs are pointing to “Cal.” We shall see. We have many more pretzels to eat and many more dreams to talk about on these next two flights. We will keep you posted.

We Got the Call

The Merida's are leaving on a jet plane this weekend; and tentatively scheduled to return on May 20, in pursuit of some little ones, ages 14 months to 4 years old. We were shocked when we received word today that we would be leaving so soon. However, we are filled with joy and gratitude, and appreciate your prayers as we seek to bring some kids home. It is indeed a humbling thing to think about - being parents and being loved by a Heavenly Father who paid the infinite price to adopt us; we have walked through some red tape (and more to come); but our Savior has paid his red blood to make us part of the family of faith. I pray that I can emulate my Heavenly Father as I seek to love these kids.