Orphan Sunday

When I first introduced Ben to the "blog world" last November, I didn't know that we would be married exactly one year later! This past year has been one of the best years of my life. I have gone through a lot, but learned a lot along the way. I made the decision to move back to Snyder last April/May, and it has ended up being one of the best decisions ever. I had prayed and prayed about it, and I know this is where God wants me to be. I have really enjoyed being around my family more, and I have especially cherished the moments with my sweet Nana who has Alzheimer's. We have made new friends and rekindled relationships with old friends, and it has been great.

One of the big bonuses about moving back was meeting Ben. I never in my life dreamed that I would meet my perfect man in Snyder, but God had great plans. I never dreamed that I would gain a super great "bonus child" out of a relationship, but God had great plans.

I mentioned his son in my introduction post, but I didn't talk a whole lot about him...mainly because I hadn't had the chance of meeting him yet. Joseph, Ben's sweet son, is 21 months old and he is absolutely precious! I got the chance to meet him this summer, and I instantly fell in love. I loved not only meeting him, but I loved getting to see Ben be his dad. I know that Ben is a great man, but my love and respect grew deeper for him as I watched him play with Joseph out in the middle of the mall courtyard area. A few weeks ago, Ben's parents were able to travel to Midland with him to visit Joseph for the first time since he was born. I was so excited to hear that they were going to be able to go hang out with them for awhile. Ben's dad, Robbie, took his camera with him and captured some great pictures! Here are a few of my sweet stepson!

Isn't he sweet?! I have never once freaked out about Ben having a son. I have seen a lot of people who don't even consider a relationship just because there is a child involved, and that breaks my heart. Ben and I even talked a lot about this before we were engaged. I am actually thrilled that he has a son.

When I was a junior in high school, I was told that I have PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. I am not going into detail about it, but basically I was told that it would be a lot harder to have babies. I was told that I would most likely need some help when it came time to try. Ever since then, God has put adoption on my heart. I have thought and prayed a lot about this, and it is definitely something that has stirred in my heart for the past 6 or 7 years. I will be going to a fertility specialist in February to go over some options and to start my journey of trying to have kids. I know that God already has a plan for us, and he already knows what will happen. I also know that God is greater than anything, and nothing is impossible. I know that He will provide what we need when the time is right.

The cool thing about all of this is, Ben has been so supportive and loving. I am so thrilled that we already have Joseph, because if for some reason we aren't able to have kids or adopt, at least we will have him. He is already so special to both of us. I cannot wait to love and nurture him as he grows.

Two of my dearest friends are also very passionate about adoption. It has been so neat to see how God has worked in their lives, and how similar we all are. God has been working in their hearts for the past few months about starting an orphan care/foster care/adoption ministry within our church. I am so pumped about this. I don't know if you knew this or not, but we are ALL called to care for the orphan.

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for the orphans and the widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you."

James 1:27

I think the biggest misconception is people think you HAVE to adopt to be part of the ministry, but that isn't at all true! There are so many ways you can help out and minister to the orphan, and they're working diligently to start this ministry in a way that is pleasing and that will fully glorify God.

November 7th was Orphan Sunday. A day that is dedicated to orphans all over the world. The following is a video that was shown at our church. There have been times where I just sit and read or watch a video with tears just streaming down my face. It breaks my heart to think of young children living in these conditions or without the unconditional love of parents. All I ask is if you are reading this, just sit and pray. Pray for the orphans. Pray for Tara and Kasey as they start the ministry, One:27, at FBC Snyder. Pray for us as we start this journey with fertility.

"Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of the widows."

Isaiah 1:17