Sunday, March 8, 2009

A 4th Anniversary in Manila

In our devotions this month at the Children's Home the leaders are covering the word “joy” with all the kids. Imagine the JOY we experienced on Monday, March 2, as we celebrated four years since the NFFCH opened its doors to receive its first child! Highlights of the celebration were listening to the kids sing to God and hearing from several long-standing members of the crowd share their thoughts on what the Children's Home has meant to them. Those sharing included Filipino community members, Philippine board members, stateside board members, an original volunteer—Chris—who showed up in Manila to pave the way before the kids arrived, Kim—who has served on our staff for three out of the four years, and my daughter, Janel—who as a little girl helped get us all going on the idea in May of 2003. The resounding theme in my mind as people shared was what a JOY it is to be involved in something greater than oneself. That the Home truly is impacting kids’ lives by providing a safe, Christian environment for kids to thrive in seemed to resonate throughout the time of testimonies.

As we move into our 5th year, more JOY is coming our way. Please pray for the new parents of the twins as they transition to Manila to complete the final pieces of the adoption puzzle and take their little boys—Daniel and Jacob—home with them this month. Everyone involved in the ministry has put much into this culminating achievement in the life of the Home. Four years ago we never dreamed or imagined that any of our kids would be going through this experience. Yet today, in God's sovereignty, we are confident that these little boys are going to a great home where they will learn more about Jesus from a mom and dad. As we approach this time, we as “Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins” are blessed to know that these guys are going to be well cared for! We are filled with JOY!!

Pray for our Manila kids this month as they participate in our first summer camp experience. Most if not all of the kids will be traveling south to visit their “cousins” at our sister children’s home in Mindanao. There they will experience the joy of being cold, of hiking in the mountains, of attending our Christian camp with many other local Filipino kids, and of meeting new friends and seeing old ones. This trip will take place from March 14-31.

What gift or talent has God given you that might spread HIS joy to our kids? If you are interested in helping, let me know!

Jeff

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Absolutely amazing!
You all Rock!
Can't wait to see it, see you soon.
In His Love,
Charlie