Paperwork...

I guess that's going to be the theme for our family for a while because we're beginning the process of adoption from Mexico! We've decided to go with Gladney based out of Fort Worth, TX because they have an established program in Mexico.

Above is a picture of Javier and Alma Ortiz. Javier is a pastor in Matamoros and one of the first people we worked with there. I guess you can say that's somewhat where it started so we've requested a child from the state of Tamaulipas where Matamoros is where we've done mission work for the past decade. We've requested a girl, but we've also told them that we're open to what the Lord wants. They've told us that we could be matched with a child as early as 4 months!! Mexico no longer allows children under the age of 5 to be adopted unless they're special needs which we're not ruling out either. If God calls us then we'll do it and trust Him.

We're excited and scared all at the same time, but know that the what the Lord has called us to do He will equip us to do. We're following our calling from James 1:27 and know that our Lord is faithful, gracious and will provide our every need.

Speaking of needs, our most immediate one will be funds as this will be expensive. In our human minds it looks impossible, but we know that NOTHING is impossible with God (Jeremiah 32:27)!!! You can help by praying, ordering salsa from Ernie as he'll be doing that as a fundraiser or by booking a Premier Jewelry party with me! God led me to that as a way to help in funding this adoption. God has already blessed in that area and Ernie will be getting the blender of salsa going soon so we're doing our part. Our children will be choosing things from their rooms as well to sell in a yard sale coming soon so that they can have a part as well. They will also probably do some lemonade stands and bake sales as well. We'll keep you posted and appreciate your prayers more than anything.

So there's our update! Thank you for sharing in our journey!!

REALITY TV

I have been thinking about this crazy phenomenon called Reality Television lately. There are some shows that I like that are considered Reality TV (American Idol and Biggest Loser would be the top 2). I occasionally like to watch "18 and Counting" when I can, but I have to say that I'm concerned for this sweet family. They seem to have it all together...which is where the concern comes in to play.

There have been so many people's lives that have been ruined through Reality TV...Jon and Kate plus 8, Hogan knows Best, Newlyweds...just to name a few. Why do people feel the need to throw all their home life out there for everyone to see?

I just don't want anything to happen to the Duggars. I have to admit that I was amazed at this family and how they keep things orderly with that many children (I'm also amazed at an OB that thinks it's ok for a woman's parts to go through that many children, but that's a whole 'nother blog post). I'm also extremely impressed that they're debt free (and somewhat jealous I might add as we strive for that at our house). At first they seemed to be using this as a ministry or to share their faith. I'm concerned now that it has become something else and I have a hard time believing that your own reality show doesn't change you a bit...maybe even de-sensitize you somewhat.

I pray that it hasn't changed them, but some of the children seem to be liking their "fame" and attention a bit too much and that is usually when the enemy allows pride to come in. Pride is a very scary thing and can do a number on people. I know because I have battled that deadly sin and it still rears its ugly head on occasion. God hates pride (Proverbs 8:13) and it brings disgrace, quarrels and destruction (Proverbs 11:2, 13:10, 16:8), but with humility comes wisdom (Proverbs 11:2). Reality TV has allowed them to become a household name and I believe that can give the enemy a foothold.

I pray for protection over the Duggar family as my brothers and sisters in Christ (lots of them)! I pray that they are "on the alert" and that they will see if the enemy is creeping in and that they will have the courage and boldness to choose their family over fame and that they will lean on their faith to hold them together. That in and of itself can be a wonderful ministry and testimony to the world that Christ is first!