Life is messy

Life is messy. Sometimes, it's hard to see the beauty for the mess. A couple weeks ago when we traveled to Lake Volta was such a time. We were full of excitement for the two boys we planned to bring home, but the outcome was so different than what we expected. The realization that the lies and manipulation had been going on for over two years and still was going on even as the truth was being revealed was frustrating. Knowing that no one but the Holy Spirit can change Delali's heart, and only if he's wanting to change, makes me want to cry. In those moments it's easy to question God, ask what He's doing. In the midst of the conversations and the emotions surrounding that day, I still know that God is in control...even in hard situations that I have trouble wrapping my mind around. The reality is that life is hard because as humans we are all sinful, but I am so thankful and in awe of our God who is full of grace and mercy. He is a God of redemption. 

As I look out the window of our room, I can see our newest children's home waiting for its roof and I'm filled with excitement. There are so many kids still out there, needing rescued not only from the harsh reality of child trafficking, but also needing to be rescued ultimately from sin. They need Jesus and so do the communities where they are living. I am longing to see hearts turned towards Him. No lasting change will happen without heart knowledge of His grace and love. We are human, we are sinful, but God... I love Genesis 50:20. Joseph says,"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." This is still true today, things the enemy intends for harm, God intends for good. If you ever get a chance to hear Johnbull's testimony, you will know that it started with his life and God has used him and his experiences to build City of Refuge for His glory. I see it in the lives of our kids here. Robert has what some would call a disability, and we would love to see him healed, but Robert has a smile for everyone and loves to share about God's call on his life - to be a pastor. These kids are not here by accident. What man intended for harm, God intended for good. He works all things together for the good of those who love him. I explained it to the girls in youth like this: when someone is working on embroidering something, if you only look at the underside, it will look like a huge knotted mess, but once it's done and you can see the finished picture, you realize that the beauty wouldn't be possible without the mess behind it. It's the same with our lives. God uses the messy things in our lives for His glory. Our story is just a small part of HIS story.

Dawn