There are so many adoption stories at my fingertips. So many blogs in various stages of the process. And today, I read one that is in the midst of waiting...like so many...waiting for paper work or some government official in some other country to give the thumbs up. I read the words they wrote and I feel the weight of their...wait. I know that frustration (in a different way, but I know it still the same). They are truly waiting on you...for your timing is perfect. Knowing you can move things as quickly or as slowly as you need things to go...knowing that it is all in your control, so it is on you that they wait. (Just like I find myself waiting on you.)
That can be maddening. To know there is power to bring an adoption to a conclusion, yet see little progress. To know your timing, Lord, is perfect while still struggling with the patience it requires to trust that timing. Struggling with the faith that is needed to want to trust a longer wait is actually better.
And as much as I'd rather be waiting for a child (or children) I've seen in a picture- the current situation in many countries is causing so many families to come face to face with a much longer road than they originally expected.
In parts of Africa, there are policies being challenged. Countries are changing their acceptance of international adoption. It feels like Satan is having free reign to delay, discourage and demoralize these poor families. They are now confronted with a longer wait...an unexpected delay...all with a name written on their heart- a face they have seen and prayed over...a child they are anxious to hold.
Their wait needs your blessing. The frustration I have with my wait is nothing in comparison. They have a name. A picture. An expectation to bring a child home- yet they wait- with no promise of when it will end. I pray you strengthen them...each of them. May they swell with a sense of peace tonight knowing you hold them (and their children) in the palm of your hand. And if need be, you could bring their wait to an end at this very moment- so they best trust that if their wait continues, it is because it is part of your bigger plan.
Strengthen me as well, Lord. For I hope to one day be in that kind of wait. And if I am, may my eyes see nothing but you.
