Steadfast Love ...

The wake up call was slated for 4:15 am this morning.  It wasn't necessary.  Sasha had not slept all night and at 3:30 am, quickly began preparing for our long-awaited journey to Mekele to meet our son Joseph.

After a short 90 minute flight (before & during which our sweet little Cara got sick ... twice!), we found ourselves in Mekele - a city unlike any we had ever seen or experienced.  It was striking in so many ways ... stunning landscapes and natural beauty, contrasted by rugged people, places, and rampant poverty.  It was the juxtaposition of old world (with livestock literally roaming the streets) and new world - with cars and commerce bustling throughout.

After checking into our hotel in Mekele, we headed to the orphanage to finally meet Joseph.   We pulled into the long dirt road leading to the orphanage and exited the car.  As we approached the front ... we were greeted by sweet Joseph.  Hugs ... Tears ... Smiles .... Laughs ... and more Hugs!  It was amazing.  It was better than we could have ever hoped or prayed for.  Within our first hour together, it quickly became evident that Joseph is a special child.  He is selfless - constantly looking out for the needs of those around him.  He is a servant - immediately lending a helping hand for whatever the need.  He is a prayer warrior ... we are told he wakes early every day and prays earnestly.  One of the highlights of the day was our powerful time of prayer together with Joseph - his eyes clamped shut and hands folded - he prayed with calm assurance in his Tigriyna language.  Gabe later translated and explained that Joseph had lifted up thanksgiving to God for his new family, for the remaining children in the orphanage, and for Gabe & Connie's continued well-being.  It was a moment that I will never forget - absolutely precious and profound.

We were able to meet all of the children at the orphanage - including Samuel (Dave & Mary's soon-to-be adopted son) and Luke (Chris & Laura's soon-to-be adopted son) ... I could not stop smiling and marveling at the glory of it all!  God sovereignly weaving together unimaginable love stories that point again and again to His steadfast love ... for all of us ... His adopted children.  I read the powerful story of Joseph again this morning during the flight to Mekele.  I was struck by Genesis 39:21, "But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love ... ".  Isn't that true of us all!?  God doesn't want us to miss this promise ... so much so that His 'steadfast love' is emphasized 193 times throughout Scripture.  It changes everything ... and it carries us forward with grateful hearts wanting to bear witness of his glorious grace.

We took photos & video (which unfortunately we cannot post any images of Joseph's face until we pass court), played soccer, observed Joseph's gardens, played games with the children, and learned more about the amazing ministry of Gabe and Connie.   Throughout the day, I would pause and just observe Joseph ... on more than one occasion, I found him smiling and walking hand-in-hand with Jonah, Cara, or Sasha.  Words simply cannot capture the sweetness of it all!

We are exhausted ... in the best way possible.  Sasha, Jonah, and Cara are fast asleep as I type.  We head back to the orphanage tomorrow.  We are praising God for an amazing day.  Thank you again for your prayers and support.  We are seeing God's hand of provision in powerful ways here in Mekele.