20 different faces. All Ukrainian. All with their own unique story about how God brought them into a family across an ocean from where they'd been born. Together in one room. And I knew each one of them.
This was a reunion I'd been dreaming about for quite some time. So many children that I've known in Ukraine have been adopted to the state of Colorado due to ministry partnerships and hosting programs that have happened over the last 6 years. Well I decided it was about time I see these sweet faces again before they all grow up. My dear friends Kris and Clarke from Ukraine Orphan Outreach hosted a beautiful reunion to make this possible--inviting all the families that have crossed my path in some way shape or form these several years.
I wish I had the words to describe what it was like to see all these faces again. Together in one room. People I'd come to know as individuals, people I'd laughed with, cried with and prayed with.....all together in one room. I don't think a smile ever left my face. I kinda thought this is what a wedding day must feel like-- minus all the stress!
God's grace seemed so tangible. So real in that hour. His hand print visible on each and every one of those stories represented before me.
As I glanced through the room I saw the faces of the girls I thought would never be adopted because their parental rights could not seem to be removed. Now 6 years later finally home.
And I heard the laughter of the girl who almost said no to her family, and then changed her mind at the last minute-- saying a beautiful resounding YES.
I received warm hugs from the brother and sister who had been living in separate orphanages in the Ukrainian system, but were united back together through adoption.
I saw the teen girl, who had mountains moved on her behalf when a US law was changed to allow for her adoption.
I watched a boy who would have never been given a chance at a normal education, now thriving in a loving family.
I saw God's grace.
"As
for you, you meant to harm me, but God intended it for a good purpose,
so he could preserve the lives of many people, as you can see this day." (Genesis 5:20 )
As I reminisced and caught up with the various families I was reminded once again that adoption is not easy...and it is not for the faint of heart. Many of their roads have been far from easy...and many are still in the midst of a difficult season.
So I am yet again reminded to pray.
To pray for God's grace and wisdom-- to pray the continual fulfillment of Genesis 5:20 over their lives, and to remember that He isn't done writing these stories.
Just like he isn't done writing yours or mine.
Still in awe of all He has done.
