tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34795226242851686442024-03-14T08:19:21.783-07:00Mission 127 Adoption StoryRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-19771716836569696852013-11-07T06:51:00.001-08:002013-11-07T06:51:22.565-08:00Blessed Joy Noelle Lewis Aquino?Tuesday Nov. 5th, after 13 months of being home with us, the Lewis clan stood before a judge to have our adoption finalized. It was a great experience. We have wonderful lawyers and had a wonderful judge. Yesterday morning Joy Joy sat at breakfast repaeating to herself, "Joy Lewis, Joy Lewis, Joy Lewis". Then she would forget and call herself, "Joy Lewis Aquino". Being quite frustrated at this, she would shout AHHH, then start over; "Joy Lewis, Joy Lewis, Joy Lewis".<br />
<br />
Though the actual court date was great, it was somewhat anticlimactic. She's been with us for 13 months, learning our family and living the life of a funny little girl. Her spunk and humor fit our family so well. My brother, Chris says that if we had searched all of the Philippines, we could not find a better personality fit than Joy Joy. This is so true. She has the sweetness of mommy and the spunky sense of humor of dad....a perfect fit. She loves her Uncle Chris and Aunt Summer, but no one comes close to the level of my dad, Paw Paw. <br />
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It is interesting that we have had few questions about her when we are out in public. Here we are a family of four very white people and a little golden brown Filipino. Yet no one asks. That is until the 5th. It was almost as if in the spiritual realm people could sense that this child was now ours. We were in Ben Franklin looking at some craft items when a little old lady walked up, "Can I buy that ornament she is holding for her. I've been watching her. She is so sweet. I'd just love to buy it." I said that she could...I have learned something about blessing. You may not want to receive, but in so doing you steal the blessing of the one wanting to give. So she handed my a $5 bill and we bought this pretty red sparkly ornament. Now we will always remember that day and the very sweet old lady. Later that day at the mall, someone else stopped to ask me about our adopted daughter. Maybe the difference is in her, now she knows that she belongs to a forever family. <br />
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As we arrived at church last night Joy proudly walks in and declares to all that will listen, "I'm a Lewis now". She knows she belongs. When picking her new name we wanted to make it special for her, keeping a part of her old name as well as the new. We also wanted to have a family connection. So keeping with the pattern of our oldest, we chose an "N" Christmas name for the girls. So we have Natalie Brooke and now Joy Noelle. My wife and I are Christmas nuts, so this is fitting. I will blog about the significance of their names closer to Christmas. <br />
<br />
Suffice it to say, the Lewis clan is a happy family this week. And most importantly, Joy Noelle is a very happy part of our clan. She may not look like a Lewis...Welsh and very white, but by the grace of our God she has been grafted in just as we have been grafted into God's family through Christ.<br />
<br />
I pray as you read this blog today, that you will find the direction that you are seeking concerning adoption. No it's not easy and yes it is expensive. But it is worth every penny and every moment of time you put into it.<br />
<br />
So welcome to the family Joy Noelle. As you declared, you're a Lewis now!<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Daddy<br />
<br />
<br />RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-44571174814942380602013-09-25T07:44:00.001-07:002013-09-25T07:44:55.803-07:00Laugh!<span class="text 2Kgs-4-11" id="en-NLT-9591">Has God ever made you laugh? Sometimes laughter can come from a lack of faith. We think, "there's no way God can do that". At other times His challenges become laughable because we are so used to being uncomfortable. His next request is just humerus. </span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">The Shunemite woman experienced this.</span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-11" id="en-NLT-9591"> </span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-11" id="en-NLT-9591">2 Kings 4:11- 17 "One day Elisha returned to Shunem, and he went up to this upper room to rest.</span> <span class="text 2Kgs-4-12" id="en-NLT-9592"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>He said to his servant Gehazi, “Tell the woman from Shunem I want to speak to her.” When she appeared,</span> <span class="text 2Kgs-4-13" id="en-NLT-9593"><sup class="versenum">13 </sup>Elisha
said to Gehazi, “Tell her, ‘We appreciate the kind concern you have
shown us. What can we do for you? Can we put in a good word for you to
the king or to the commander of the army?’” </span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-13">“No,” she replied, “my family takes good care of me.”</span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-14" id="en-NLT-9594"><sup class="versenum"> 14 </sup>Later Elisha asked Gehazi, “What can we do for her?”</span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-14">Gehazi replied, “She doesn’t have a son, and her husband is an old man.”</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-15" id="en-NLT-9595"><sup class="versenum">15 </sup>“Call her back again,” Elisha told him. When the woman returned, Elisha said to her as she stood in the doorway,</span> <span class="text 2Kgs-4-16" id="en-NLT-9596"><sup class="versenum">16 </sup>“Next year at this time you will be holding a son in your arms!”</span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-16"> <i><b>“No, my lord!” she cried. “O man of God, don’t deceive me and get my hopes up like that.”</b></i></span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"><sup class="versenum"> 17 </sup>But sure enough, the woman soon became pregnant. And at that time the following year she had a son, just as Elisha had said." NLT</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">'"No my Lord' she cried". You can almost hear both pain and laughter in her voice as she grapples with her own faith. Do I dare to believe for what I have wanted for so long? Can I really see an answer to this great need? Too often we look at our situation and our own ability to meet a need, rather than looking to the one who has all power and the ability to answer any prayer or perform any miracle.</span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">My wife and I are laughing at this point in our lives. I have just assumed the role of Lead Pastor at my home church, having served on staff for 14 years. Building staff and sharing my vision for the future is more than a full-time job. Before any of this came up, we were in the process of adopting a little girl...for all most four years! We brought her home last October, but the finalization is still ahead...hopefully in the very near future. </span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">So with all of this, a new role at church and finalizing our daughters adoption, God shows up yet again. The first time He told us to adopt I wept tears for the hurting child He would lead us to. I have to admit this time I'm laughing. I'm thinking, "you want us to do what? We haven't finalized the first adoption, but You are calling us to do it again?" Joy's adoption has cost us four years and $25,000 (most of which was raised). Now, You are leading us to a place that will only take one year, but will take $35,000 or more. (hear me laughing in the background.) It's not that I wont do it, I will. It's not that God cannot drop $40,000 in our laps, He can. But now Lord, now?</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">Yet in the midst of my laughing, I know that if the Lord has called us to adopt again, we will. And if we are willing, He will provide. </span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"> </span><span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"> </span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">By the way, my wife has already found a little boy in China and is already picking out names! I told her "if you name him, we'll have to keep him. :)</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">So I wrongly figured this blog was very soon coming to a close. It may, in actuality, become a integral part of my life again. God always keeps us wondering what's next. That is the excitement of fully relying on Him</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">In
the end, with my laughing heart and all, I thank God that He has chosen
us for this task and I pray that He is preparing another little heart
to join the ever expanding Lewis clan. </span><br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597">So when God calls you to do the insane...laugh. He understands!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Kgs-4-17" id="en-NLT-9597"> </span>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-78982431353214086932013-07-15T10:00:00.002-07:002013-07-15T10:00:41.577-07:00UpdateI realize that I have not posted very often since Joy came home in Oct. If you have read my previous post you understand why. If not, here is a simple explanation: until Joy's adoption is finalized, we have to be careful of what we post. <br />
<br />
Today I am happy to announce that our final consent to adopt has been approved by the Filipino government. This means that all her paper work will soon be to us. We will then take it to our lawyer to have her adoption finalized here in Louisville. At that time we will change her name to, Joy Noelle Lewis, and she will be an American citizen. Pray with us that this last step will be quick and easy.<br />
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Joy is doing very well. Her behavior and attachment to all members of the family are normal now. She is blessing to us and our family. Her favorite person, no surprise, is my dad who we all call Pawpaw. Or at least we used to, until Joy started calling him Poppy. I think it may stick. <br />
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Joy's health is good. We have had no issues while weaning her off of one of her medications. This is a blessing. The Doctor here said it was a pointless medicine that was doing nothing for her. She has been off of it for more than two months, with no seizure. Thank God!<br />
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All in all we have had a pretty easy transition in comparison to a lot of our friends. We look forward to this four year process being behind us. She will soon have all of the rights an privileges of every American. As she continues to grow in her faith, I know that God has a divine plan for her little life. We are blessed to be a part of it.<br />
<br />
DarrenRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-68831581081339598652013-02-15T11:01:00.000-08:002013-02-15T11:01:00.333-08:00Checking InI know I have not blogged much since we went to get Joy Noelle. Her adoption is not finalized for several more months. During this time we are not allowed to write, post pictures, or give details about her. I can say it has been a very busy few months. She has settled in very well. Lots of doctors, dentist, and other appointments. <br />
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As soon as her adoption is finalized, I will fill you in on our progress. I will also post lots of pictures for you to see.<br />
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Thanks for standing with us during this process.<br />
DarrenRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-43578508782536962762012-09-21T09:57:00.001-07:002012-09-21T09:57:34.423-07:00Happy Birthday!“For my thoughts<sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18749A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> are not your thoughts, <span class="indent-1"><span class="text Isa-55-8">neither are your ways my ways,”</span></span><span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>. Isaiah 55:8</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8"></span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">Today is our little girls 7th Birthday. In the Philippines her birthday has come and gone. We hoped so much to be there with her. We are ready to bring her home. All we need is a release to travel. We have begun to pack. We are watching plane tickets daily. We are so ready to move to the next phase of our lives. </span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8"></span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">"One year ago today we submitted paper work requesting to adopt you. I never thought it would take this long. Daddy and mommy hope you had a great birthday. I am happy to say it will be your last in an orphanage. When we get home, we will throw a big party for you. I can't wait to meet you and hold you. I know God has blessed you today whether or not mommy and daddy were with you. We will see you soon. Happy birthday Joy Noelle!"</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8"></span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">Love,</span></span><br />
<span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">Daddy</span></span>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-66519898119308161352012-09-12T08:14:00.001-07:002012-09-12T08:14:14.105-07:00The Stress of SilenceHere we are, still waiting. I am convinced that the Filipino Government is being used of God to teach me patience. For the last several weeks we have been waiting on that final call giving us permission to travel. But still we wait. It looks like we will defiantly miss our little girls 7th birthday (Sept. 21). Please pray that we will hear soon and for our sanity. I know in the end it will be worth it.<br />
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On a side note. We have started an online consignment store through eBay. Please check it out at the link below. All the money raised goes to missions work and orphan care. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theblackschnauzer.blogspot.com/">www.theblackschnauzer.blogspot.com</a><br />
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Thanks,<br />Darren<br />
RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-13137285921565256102012-08-28T08:32:00.000-07:002012-08-28T08:32:14.434-07:00Birthday Our little girl will celebrate here 7th birthday September 21. It has been our hope to have her home by then. Our agency advised us to have a box ready to send to her in case we do not hear in time. So this weekend we went birthday shopping for our little girl. If we do not hear by Friday of this week, we will have to send the box to her, as we will not make it by her birthday. Please pray with us that we hear soon. We are waiting on her visa interview and our travel release. That's it. We're so close. Thanks for your continued prayers. RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-11864029782771992362012-08-22T06:24:00.000-07:002012-08-22T06:24:00.894-07:00Expecting Trials
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each morning I have a basic routine. Once the kids are off
to school (thank God), I settle into my office for the day, make a cup of
coffee, and spend a half an hour or so in devotion and prayer. Today I felt led
to write the devotion, rather than read it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A few weeks ago a preached a two week series on the attacks
of the enemy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As believers we should not
be surprised by these attacks. We should expect them and to some extent welcome
them. Contrary to many in the church world today, I believe attacks are a sign
that we are doing what is right. If you are not where you need to be in God,
the enemy does not need to bother with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When a Christian couple seeks to adopt a child, attacks will
come. You see not only are you fulfilling God’s will for your life, but also
for the life of the child you will adopt. So in a sense when trials come you
are really fighting the fight for your child. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As my wife and I have moved through these 28 months of
paperwork and waiting, we have continually been under financial attack. Why
finances? In short, if you don’t have the money to adopt…you can’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So here is a partial list:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Emergency Appendectomy $3,000<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tires $500<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dental Work on me $300<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Emergency room visit and follow up for our son $1,200<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dental work on my wife $1,200<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Air conditioner on vehicle that was 200 miles out of warranty
$600<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Scans to check my liver function $500<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">These are a few of the major things. There are a host of
smaller expenses like car batteries, doctor visits, etc., etc., etc. We also
had a freak hailstorm that caused $12,000 of damage to our home. (Thank God for
State Farm.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you see a pattern
of weirdness here? Now I am never one to blame all of our trouble on the devil.
Some things are just life. That said, when you experience a constant barrage of
trials, it’s probably not a coincidence. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This list equals $7,300.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Think about it. The devil knows who I am. He knows where I live.
He knows I need money to adopt. He also knows that if I am willing to adopt,
God has control of my wallet. If I were not spending money on the adoption, I’m
likely to give it to God anyway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is the point. I’m not writing to you as an appeal for
money. God has faithfully provided for our adoption. I am writing to help
prepare you for what is to come. Expect it. I now laugh about it. How am I
going to pay all these bills (some are already paid)? I don’t know, but I do
know a God that can help me pay them. He will provide as I have need. He always
does. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“So Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior, I affirm again today
that you have complete control of every aspect of my life: my marriage, my
family, my finances, and my future; therefore, there is no need to worry or
fret. I will instead rest in the knowledge and peace of my God. I will seek You
and find You as Your WORD says. I will serve only you with my full heart. If
one day I have nothing at all, I will remember that I am still rich because I
have a relationship with You. Help me to be a positive influence on those
seeking to adopt. May I always be willing to share our story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now Lord, bless those reading this that are
in the midst of a storm. Be the lighthouse on their stormy sea. Keep them safe
and as with Jabeez, may they prosper in all that they do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for the opportunity to adopt Joy Noelle.
May your peace reign in our home and lives, Amen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-91648209478594676632012-08-21T12:14:00.001-07:002012-08-21T12:14:42.767-07:00Visa and MedicalJust a quick update. We are waiting for our little girl's visa and medical appointments. Once these are finished we will be able to travel. It is still our goal to have her before her B-day, Sept. 21st. Please pray with us to that end.RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-32212692815212281822012-07-30T06:08:00.001-07:002012-07-30T06:08:32.180-07:00Give 1 Save 1As our adoption comes to a close, we are pleased to take part in one last fundraisier. Give 1 Save 1 is an organization committed to helping familes like ours raise much needed funds for adoption. Please take a moment, watch our video, and if you are able doante a dollar or more. We are so close to bringing our little girl home. Thanks you for being a part of her story. <a href="http://www.give1save1asia.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://www.give1save1asia.blogspot.com/</a>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-47069721157314338492012-07-11T10:40:00.000-07:002012-07-11T10:40:35.042-07:00A Quick NoteThe light is appearing at the end of our adoption tunnel. We are in the very last stages before we can travel to bring home Joy Noelle. We are excited and ready to begin this new phase of God's plan. I am writing less often now because there is very little to say that I have not said already. My plan is to keep the blog going until after her adoption has been finalized, about 6 months from her arrival in the US. At that point I can post picture. Until then I hope that you will check in on occasion. For now we wait to have our fingerprints updated...because it's obvious to everyone that our fingerprints change every few months. We are also waiting for her visa approval. At that time we will be cleared to travel. Thanks for your continued prayers and support.RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-17624825516054482222012-06-27T09:53:00.000-07:002012-06-27T09:53:33.653-07:00A Letter to My DaughterDear Joy Noelle,<br />
<br />
I like being able to write my blog to you by name now. It was such a great surprise to receive pictures of you openeing the box we sent you. The smile on your face makes all the waiting worth it. We can't wait to meet you for the first time. Your room is ready and you have a closet full of new clothes. <br />
<br />
Today will beign the last stages of your adoption. Yesterday we recieved an email that your birth certificate is here. It should make it to us today. So tomorrow morning we will apply for your Visa, the last step before we can travel to get you.<br />
<br />
We are so excited to have you as a part of our family. Our Christian heritage will become part of your story. You will be loved and taught to love others no matter what they look like. Jesus cared for people from all walks of life and from many cultures. We will do our best to keep you connected to your native culture, but we also want you to be a part of ours.<br />
<br />
In the days ahead you will have many, many firsts. Your first day of school in America, meeting your family, and our church family, as well as so many foods that will be new to you. I hope you will aclimate well.<br />
<br />
Mom and I know that you will be scared. Natalie and Micah will be traveling with us to make it more easy on you. Once you are here, we will do everything we can to help you become whatever God wants for your life. I'm already praying for His divine will and call to be placed on your little heart and mind. <br />
<br />
We love you so much already. I can't wait ot hold you soon.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
DaddyRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-74787659567335361962012-06-08T10:15:00.001-07:002012-06-08T10:15:25.019-07:00Guess What?Guess what? We are working on more paperwork and we are waiting more. Isn't life grand. Now that we know our little girl is coming, it would be nice if the paperwork would move on already. But this, as most other aspects of the adoption process, moves at its own pace. We have all the forms filled out and ready to go. All we need is a copy of her birth certificate so we can make formal application for her visa. Our prayer is that we will be able to travel by the first of September. Please pray with us that all our other paperwork will not expire as we wait. This, of course, will add more time. 26 months and counting :/ <br />
<br />
In the mean time, fundraisng has gone well. We are only $600 short of our $6,100 goal. We so appreciate all who have donated to make this dream a reality. I hope each of you will have an opportunity to meet our little girl when she gets here. <br />
<br />
DarrenRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-23811842877171360742012-05-16T11:54:00.002-07:002012-05-16T11:54:46.635-07:00God will provide as we obey.Today there is urgency in my heart. I met with a missionary last week. He has dedicated his life to the children of Cambodia. A few weeks ago he received an email notifying him that they will be loosing 90% of the funding for his orphanage. There are 62 beautiful children in this home. Here they are feed, educated, loved, and nurtured in the things of God. While it is true that my wife and I need $3,000 to complete our adoption expenses, I believe that as we are obedient to help raise these urgent funds, God will be faithful to provide for us. <br />
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The orphanage must bring in $100 per month per child. What we are seeking to do is find 100 people, churches, or businesses that are willing to donate $500 per year, each year, for the next four years. These funds will ensure the orphanages stability for four more years. If you would like to help us with this project, please fill out the attached pledge form and return it with your donation. This is an urgent need. The funding source will run out in the next few weeks. <br />
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Help us save this orphanage. <br />
<br />
Darren <br />
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100% of your donation is tax deductible and will be sent to Cambodia through our Orphan Care ministry, Mission 1:27. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgJHfxPzyxbMHAoSZad126Jnl307vjGpbbR9Qtrn9fzEv17aXTkJfjJdaFHdwA1obgXuOe5sLm1eNWmvTVODxRxyxy3-MFeoTIF3xGhTDMu7SX1bIlvHyM0Ox3P_iYRFMazuCm0xWx8qS/s1600/Donation+form.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrgJHfxPzyxbMHAoSZad126Jnl307vjGpbbR9Qtrn9fzEv17aXTkJfjJdaFHdwA1obgXuOe5sLm1eNWmvTVODxRxyxy3-MFeoTIF3xGhTDMu7SX1bIlvHyM0Ox3P_iYRFMazuCm0xWx8qS/s640/Donation+form.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-36705504843915283282012-05-09T06:51:00.000-07:002012-05-09T06:51:07.042-07:00Surprised by JoyAs I sit in my office today, the words to that old Etta James song rings through my head, "At last". Monday afternoon, while waiting in line to pick up the kids, my cell phone rang. It was the call that we have waited for......for 25 months (here I'm yelling). We are officially approved to adopt our little girl. At this time we are not allowed to post her full name or picture, so I will just call here Joy....which is one of her names. <br />
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As my head spins around the final paperwork and the final payment of $6,100 due by the end of this week (ouch), I am reminded of a book by C.S. Lewis, "Surprised by Joy". In his case, Joy was both the emotion and the name of his wife. The theme of this book is finding Joy in this life. Lewis recounts the ups and downs of mortality and our never ending search for happiness. <br />
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Though we have time of great emotion, true Joy is only found in Christ. It is because of the grace and direction of Christ that we are adopting. It is an honor to be used by Him in this way. To imagine that the God of the universe would entrust us with such responsibility is indeed humbling. Joy is now and forever will be part of the Lewis clan. Her life will be dedicated to Christ. Through the journey, I have no doubt we will continually be "Surprised by Joy".<br />
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We can't wait to meet you!<br />
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Love,<br />
Daddy<br />
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"The hardness of God is kinder than the softness of men, and His compulsion is our liberation."<br />
C. S. Lewis, "Surprised by Joy"RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-26859530865366183232012-04-25T11:07:00.000-07:002012-04-25T11:07:08.289-07:00BLAH BLAH BLAHIt has been a while since I have been able to write. Spring break, ministers meetings, and the busyness of life. I wish I could write today about our approval, but I can't. I wish I could tell you that our little girl is on her way to us, but I can't. I wish I could tell you how I'm not frustrated by all this, but I can't.<br />
I know all the sayings we use, "All in God's time", "You don't want to rush it", "His time is better than ours"...blah blah blah. I know all these things are true but platitudes don't help. Really there is only one thing that does, WORSHIP. <br />
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When I'm down and frustrated worship lifts me back to reality in Christ. Those things that I set aside temporarily are brought back into their rightful place. I know God is in control but sometime I want to forget...so I can have a little pity party over in a corner all by myself. While there, I despise happy people. I'm sure none of you experience this. After a time of self doubt and frustration I pull myself up and make myself focus on what really matter in this life...Jesus.<br />
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Once I am lost in His grace and mercy, He reminds me that He is in control. Worship causes me to sense the arms of Christ wrapping around me, loving me, calming me. Yes, this process is really annoying me. In the end it's just that, only a process. When the process has come to a completion and our beautiful little girl is in our arms, somehow I bet that the wait will no longer seem long but worth every minute.<br />
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We do thank all of you for your continued prayers and for the support that you continue to give us.<br />
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DarrenRevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-70440652156736868002012-04-03T11:21:00.000-07:002012-04-03T11:21:02.683-07:00Something Bigger<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God has placed within human nature the desire to accomplish something greater than ourselves. Most would not think twice about switching jobs if the new opportunity would fulfill them more...even if the money was less. Money does not equal happiness. It is a fact of life we all desire to give back, to change a life, to make a difference. Those who do not have this desire are viewed by society as selfish. Still as much as we think we would do the right thing, when God brings opportunity we find many reasons to say "no". You might say we find baggage to hide behind. "I don't like change." "I think I'm more suited for ___." "But I've been here forever." "I'm really in over my head." <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There was a famous king who dealt with this problem as well.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 Samuel 10:20-23 "So Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel before the Lord, and the tribe of Benjamin was chosen by lot. 21 Then he brought each family of the tribe of Benjamin before the Lord, and the family of the Matrites was chosen. And finally Saul son of Kish was chosen from among them. But when they looked for him, he had disappeared! 22 So they asked the Lord, “Where is he?” And the Lord replied, “<strong>He is hiding among the baggage.</strong>” 23 So they found him and brought him out, and he stood head and shoulders above anyone else."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We can all identify with Saul. He was not ready to become king. Israel had never had a king before. How was he to know what to do? The point is when God calls us to do something beyond our scope of reason, He intends for us to do it. Sounds obvious right? But it isn't. We often forget who God is and what He is capable of. Verse 24 says, "Then Samuel said to all the people, “<strong>This is the man the Lord has chosen as your king</strong>. No one in all Israel is like him! “And all the people shouted, “Long live the king!" When God directs you, follow.<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Don't look at your inabilities, rather, look at God's ability. He is bigger and stronger. He has the power to change you into what He wants you to be. It is not rocket science but we tend to forget. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Two years ago, God called us to start the process of adoption. Some days we wonder if He will ever finish it. In our humanity we ask if He knows what He is doing. Our faith tells us that He does. We know that He does all things well in His timing and in His way.</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">"So today, I submit myself again to Your will. I ask you to take the baggage of self-doubt, worry, confusion, and money out of my way. Don't allow me to hide behind it. Instead push me to step into the divine purpose you have for my life. Amen"<o:p></o:p></span></div>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-54820486644224735112012-03-21T10:50:00.000-07:002012-03-21T10:50:31.405-07:00Turn From Your Sin<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is a very concerning trend occurring within the church.</span><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">People will admit their need for Christ, but they will not turn from their sin. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is not how it works. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You do not come to Christ but keep doing all the sinful things you have always done. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">True repentance is coming to Christ with an open heart acknowledging that you are in need of forgiveness and turning for your sin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">(all references form the NLT)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Matt. 4:17 “From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Matt. 18:3 “Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Acts 20:21 “I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Romans 2:4-11 “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. 6 He will judge everyone according to what they have done. 7 He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. 8 But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness. 9 There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on doing what is evil—for the Jew first and also for the Gentile.[a] 10 But there will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good—for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. 11 For God does not show favoritism.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">No one gets into heaven by the skin of their teeth. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You are forgiven and changed or you are not. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is that simple. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Much of this is the churches fault. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In an effort to not offend, we have become soft on sin. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We need to return to a balance of preaching grace and judgment. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heaven is real, but so is hell.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heaven is forever, but so is hell. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Some of you may need to come back to God and say, “I want you in my life and I don’t want to sin anymore.” </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are not judging by making sin apparent in a person’s life. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That cry is a cop out and expresses the human desire to half do what’s right. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">God desires, He demands, our full repentance. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I freely take of the chains of sin and put on the chains of Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">May we always be ready to speak the truth, teach our children, and spread God's love. He is a God of love, but He does not tolerate disobedience. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">"God give us the strength to live as we need to live, to stand as we need to stand, to teach as we need to teach. May our families not be lost, but may every member come to know you for who You are; a wonderful and merciful God who gave His life for us. May we be willing and ready to share this good news with our world. May you use our lives to touch the world...whether it be through adoption or loving those around us. Amen!"</span>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-86629095672407467102012-03-15T07:19:00.000-07:002012-03-15T07:19:55.672-07:00The Two Faces of DisneyMy wife and I have been struggling with television lately. "Kids" channels are now introducing to our children many things that we disagree with. There are good things too, but those are becoming fewer. When I was a kid cartoons were on Disney...not today. Now they are all situational comedies. Most of which portray middle school age kids kissing, young ladies wearing very little, attitudes that would have gotten me smacked, and much more. <br />
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As an example; the other day my kids and I were watching "Good Luck Charlie". This is a show that revolves around the Dunken family and their toddler Charlie. Great and innocent premise right? Not really. In last episode I saw, the mom kept lying to prove to her husband that she did not need his help...bad from the start right. Well in the end, he finds out, but is there any remorse, no. In stead she says, you mean I can't lie to you, what kind of a marriage is this. (Not a direct quote) This is a normal theme for this show. Perhaps it should be called, "This is How You Lie Charlie".<br />
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On another show, "Sweet Life on Deck" gay characters are often portrayed. All of this is done to cause our children to be comfortable with what the world sets as right. Instead, we should be following what the Word of God says is right. Humor is a dangerous thing when it comes to our kids. If they can get us to laugh we become comfortable with the issue being pushed on us.<br />
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Disney needs to remember that they are here to entertain, not push sociaital issues at our kids. They need to return to the basics of Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse. If not, soon Christan parents will be forced to turn it off; thus loosing a large portion of their base. I love Disney World, I love the old cartoons, but something is seriously a mis. <br />
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Philippians 4:8 says "Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about these things that are excellent and worthy of praise."<br />
"God help us to parent wisely, as you would have us do. Help us to trin our kids in the truth of Your Word, not in what society dictates."RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-12088668142067836792012-03-07T07:12:00.000-08:002012-03-07T07:12:08.985-08:00Know and Do<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Ephesians 5:17 "Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do."</span><br />
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I have read this verse many many times over the years, but today it really jumped out at me. This is great advice from the apostle Paul; however, it is not easily accomplished. We go through seasons in our lives where, as the word says, our prayers feel as if they are hitting a clanging ceiling and falling back to us. At other times we know quickly what we are to do. The variation of these times in our lives teach us much about the character of our God, about our faith, and about what God wants us to learn. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">The Word also says, that sheep should know the voice of their God. What do we do in the times that we are praying and waiting but all we hear in return is silence? What do we do when this is an extended time? The simple answer, but hard action, is to wait. Wait on the right time, wait on His voice, wait to see if our situation changes or a way is made clear. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">In those rare times that we hear God speak quickly, we need to jump to obedience and act. There are a few times in my life I knew quickly what I was to do and never really questioned it. One was my calling into ministry and along with it the school I was to attend. Second, was marrying my wife. Third, was our adoption. Fourth, was my returning to school. There have been other more minor things. These times are great, to hear God's voice and do it. There is no greater pleasure. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">If you are in a season of silence. Remember that your confidence and your faith is in an eternal and loving God. Remember the words to the old hymn, which is also taken from scripture; "For I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day."</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Take heart seasons of silence often develop into seasons of great joy. Seek to know God's will and do it! </span>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-16688360445776962142012-02-29T10:47:00.001-08:002012-02-29T10:48:19.338-08:00John the BelovedThere is a song written by Kari Jobe that I love.<br />
"The more I seek You, the more I find You. The more I find You, the more I love You. I want to sit at Your feet, drink from the cup in Your hand, lay back against you and breathe, feel your heart beat. This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand, I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming."<br />
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This beautiful song puts a picture of John the beloved laying on the chest of Jesus in my mind. I see him as a young man, maybe only 13 or so, just loving His master. There is nothing improper about his love. It is just the opposite. His love is how we all should feel about the Savior. There should be a deep connection between us. It is a love like a father and a son. <br />
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I love it when my kids sit on my lap and lay their not so little heads on me. It is a sign of complete surrender. It is us saying, "I trust you to do what is best. I know you will protect me." When we have a love like this for Christ we will also have a love like this for people. They cannot be separated. You cannot love God and hate people. <br />
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I can't wait to sit and have our new little girl on my lap laying her head against me. This child that may not trust anyone in the world, rightfully so, will come to know me as her protector. In that relationship we will also have an open door to connect her to the real love of her life...Jesus. May we always make Him our focus and the center of our lives, our love, and our families.RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-62586918363750437562012-02-22T07:57:00.001-08:002012-02-22T08:11:24.198-08:00A Heritage of HymnsAs a worship leader I am keenly aware of the debate between hymns and non-hymns. It is really a silly discussion. First of all, God doesn't care in what style we worship as long as we worship Him for who He is. Secondly, the answer is doing both. We do not do a hymn every service; however, during extended altar times I pull out a lot of the old hymns. We use them during offering and for the occasional selection during worship. You see, I realized one day that I wanted my kids to know the old hymns that my grandparents knew. Don't get me wrong I love all the new stuff too, but there is something of our spiritual heritage that will be lost if all hymns are set aside.<br />
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When we sing a hymn we are joining our voice with millions of the faithful through the ages. Many hymns that we sing are 200 plus years old. Think of the great men and women of faith who sang and worshipped through these hymns.<br />
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Here are a few words from some of my favorites. Think about these words and the depth that are in them.<br />
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"How marvelous, how wonderful! And my song shall ever be. How marvelous, how wonderful! Is my Savior's love for me." - My Savior's Love - Charles Hutchinson Gabriel<br />
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"When peace like a river attendeth my way. When sorrows like sea billows role. Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul." - It Is Well - Horatio Gates Spafford<br />
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"I need Thee, oh I need Thee; every hour I need Thee. O bless me now my Savior. I come to Thee." - I Need Thee Every Hour - Annie Sherwood Hawk<br />
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and my favorite hymn - I Am Thine, O Lord - Fanny Jane Crosby (I love Ms. Crosby)<br />
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"Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died; Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to Thy precious bleeding side." <br />
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As I sit and think this morning of my Godly heritage, while listening to Crystal Lewis' Hymn CD, I can't help but look forward to sharing this heritage of hymns with our little girl that will be coming to us soon. She has been chosen by her mom and I. Just as we were chosen by Christ.<br />
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Sometimes I don't understand why God has allowed the Lewis family to have such a rich heritage of faith. Then I remember, it is because God forgave and called a poor man from Lake of the Ozark, MO. When he took his family into a small Assemblies of God church in Jefferson City, MO our family was forever changed. He, my grandfather Rev. Harry Lewis, prayed for his children, his grandchildren, to the 4 and 5th generation. A testament of that faith is that all of us, every Lewis, are serving God. <br />
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My prayer is what G-pa's was, "May God continue to keep us to the 4, 5th generation, and beyond. May we pass this heritage to those who were born of our flesh and the ones who will be grafted in. May every Lewis remain faithful until Jesus returns. May our heritage of hymns teach us of our great God."RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-26367416621367171482012-02-15T07:48:00.000-08:002012-02-15T07:48:26.419-08:00His Throne of Grace<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">My evening devotional time this year will be spent in Hebrews. There is so much insight in this short book. It is like the entire Bible written in 13 chapters. I love it. If you can have a favorite book of the Bible this would at least be my New Testament pick. As I was reading last night this verse jumped out at me. I have read and heard it many times, but it is still encouraging to read it again.</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"></span><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Heb. 4:16 "So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Grace and mercy are two things that we are always in need of. As humans, we live like Paul when he says, I do what I should not and I don't do what I should. Can I hear an amen. Life is tough. Circumstances drag us down. This is why the writer of Hebrews reminds us to meet at a body often and even more often as we see the day of Christ's return drawing near. In these trying times, we need to immerse ourselves in His Word and prayer, meet with fellow believers for encouragement and love, and be willing to boldly approach our God. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Most of us miss that little word "boldly". Our minds tells us that we are not worthy. So if we approach we do it timidly. "Your right mind, I am not worthy. If I was I would not need Christ." Tell yourself this and move on. Go into His presence expecting to receive. I do not approach Him as I did my parents when I was at home; asking for money but expecting a "we'll see". And don't we all know that is code for "NO". I know it is, that's why I use it with my kids...keeping the tradition alive as it were. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">With God it should not be like this. I come to Him boldly, not out of disrespect or an attitude that I am owed, but knowing that my God is big enough to answer my need. So if you need grace today, I do, or if you need mercy today, I do, run to His throne. The one who set the world into motion desires your request. What's more He is willing to meet it.</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I have tired to make this a practice; to boldly ask God to move in our adoption process. I don't come to Him each day asking for Him to answer sometime in the next six months; rather, I come each day asking Him to move on our behalf today. One day, when His timing is right, He will.</span>RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-77921191091693751322012-02-08T07:22:00.000-08:002012-02-08T10:02:12.160-08:00Abortion and AdoptionAs conservative Christians we often vote and state that we are against abortion. We believe abortion is an abomination to our God and to humanity. While we might support a women's right to choose what effects her own life; when another life is involved, no one but God has the right to choose between life and death. There is only one way I can support an abortion with a clear conscience, that is in the case where the mother's life is in danger. This of course is VERY rare and very controversial to a world that puts more value on a cat than an unborn human. <br />
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Christians are quick to let everyone know how we feel on this issue. It's simple, life begins at conception. From a Biblical perspective at the moment dad's seed meets mom's egg God creates within in that tiny life the ability to develop all of their character traits: hair color, eye color, height, weight, propensity for strength in areas and weakness in others. But in that moment we also believe that in whatever mysterious way it happens, God places within that life a soul. <br />
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We find it sad that someone could abort a baby at 8 months of pregnancy. You see it's not out of the womb. Yet, if the baby came early, say 8 months and a day, the law and humanity suddenly declare it human. How illogical. <br />
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In all my disagreement with the abortion rights people, I do agree with them on one thing. Often they stand in their lines declaring the right to abort. They also stand as an indictment against the church rightfully saying, "you say you support adoption over abortion, but how many are willing to adopt?" Ouch! We say we believe in life and adoption as a better alternative, but how many Christan's Foster or Adopt....very few.<br />
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We go to the polls to vote our conscience on this issue but we leave it to someone else to care for the unwanted child. A Pastor friend of mine often said before his church that he was against abortion. One day the Lord spoke to him and said, "that's good, but what are you doing about it." A few months later his church opened a crisis pregnancy center to care for unwed mothers. <br />
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Today in Kentucky, the state where we live, there are 6,500 churches. There are 800 children in the Foster Care program that are ready and waiting to be adopted. These are kids that have had mom and dads rights terminated. They are not in danger of being taken back once the process is started. So let's say the average church in KY runs 50. That would equal 325,000 members (this is a very low estimate). It would only take 2.6% of these to step up and have 100% of these kids adopted. 2.6% (I typed that hard for emphasis). <br />
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What are we doing as a church? It is time our beliefs are backed up by our actions. I realize that not all can adopt. Surely 800 families across our Commonwealth could. We have chosen by God's direction to adopt outside the US. It doesn't matter, what matters is our willingness to stand up for the fatherless. To put our money where our mouths are (literally). You may not be approved to adopt, but you can try. You may not be at a place that you can bring another child into your home, but you can help someone else who can.<br />
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The same man that said (James), "true religion in the sight of God the father is caring for widows and orphans in their distress" also said "faith without works is dead". Let us rise up as Christians and answer the call to adopt. Let us not simply say we are against abortion but provide a loving home for the child whose mom made the right choice...LIFE!RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3479522624285168644.post-83382020826910692942012-02-02T08:17:00.000-08:002012-02-02T08:17:37.139-08:00Healing the HurtThe adoption process is long and lonely. It can at times be overwhelming and very, very frustrating. This month marks the second year since God spoke to us to adopt. It is a two year period marked by the ups and downs of life. I lost my mom last year. I graduated with a Masters Degree last year. These are examples of each. This process has taught us a lot about God and His timing. Can I be honest and just say, some days God's timing really stinks! This is why He is God and I am not.<br />
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Patience and the process that requires it can be very taxing. Some days you wake up hurting. It's not a physical hurt as when you break a toe or something, rather it is an emotional hurt. Not depression or something that severe, but a constant aching in your soul that reminds you that a part of you is waiting on the other side of the world. Some days are better than others. Circumstances of life that are tough seem to bring it out more (Read my last blog titled "The Shadow Within".) Today I am missing my mom as she passed away 11 months ago, almost at this very hour. It seems that when other things pull on our emotions the longing to see the adoption completed, or in our case just to hear that we can adopt, becomes urgent. <br />
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We hurt through this process as we think of a beautiful little girl getting ready for bed as we are preparing for our day. She knows nothing of a mom and a dad that have been waiting for two years to meet her and love her. The fact is that some days this just hurts to think about. Perhaps God in is infinite wisdom allows this. Perhaps this is His way of preparing us to deal with the hurts of a little six year old girl that we so long to hold and love as our own. We have been waiting for two years. She has been waiting for six year wondering when and if someone will ever love her. She was abandoned and left for someone else to care for. She has seen many other kids come and go from her home. All the while she is waiting and hurting.<br />
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God, may the hurt that we have in the waiting prepare us to love her more than we ever thought we could!RevSnoopyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853570497596747358noreply@blogger.com0