As we entered into this next phase of raising these 3 children we were aware of them not being leagally free. The mom still had her parenting rights in place however Miss J's dad parental rights were revoked. Little M and Little K dads (different dad from Miss J) rights are still in place. In fact I take them once a week to visit their dad. He just called today and asked if he could start visiting 2 times a week instead of the once.
I had a lengthly visit with the case worker today. She brought the situation a bit more real to me. DHS is hoping that the dad of the little ones voluntarily gives up his rights. He has a violent past and can be a very dangerous man. The more I learn it is so clear that this whole system is broken including foster care. These kids don't need to be with someone who might hurt them and people who are doing foster care who shouldn't sickens me. These kids have been victims of both situations.
When kids come into foster care each one has a plan. Whether they are going to head toward adoption, return to parent or some other plan. The children's plan as of today is "to return to parent".
Going into this journey I knew what we were getting into. We have prepared our children for what might happen. The way I choose to look at this situation is -- This is our family ministry. We have much love to give these little ones. When these little ones came in to our home they had know idea who Jesus is. Now they know how to pray and they have asked the Lord into their heart. When we sit at the kitchen table to eat they can't wait to pray! Even after one of the other kids pray they each want to lift up their own prayer. It is too precious! Should the Lord want these kids back with their parent then the Lord knows what he is doing. We just need to pray and have faith that these little ones will be okay. We have planted seeds while they have been with us. There is a very special verse that has been coming to mind time and time again through this.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and HE will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6
I always wondered why that verse stuck in my head at such an early age. It was the first verse I ever memorized. Maybe it was to drill it in to my head so I could remember it for this moment of my life. The Lord knew how much I would need to depend on those words.
I am asking prayer for this situation. I am praying against any possibilities that they would return to their parents. I am praying that these three beautiful children can stay with us. That we can adopt them. The Lord has promised this verse in his Living Word --
I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. John 14:13
I have the peace of mind to know that our story is going to be like labor pains that will last for a couple of years. When the adoption actually happens it will be an emotional celebration with lots of hugs and kisses and deep breaths. It will be the longest labor pains I have ever experienced.
Thank you so much for your time and interest in reading this blog. In a two month period of time there are over 1000 hits on this blog and over 14 different countries have been reading it! The Lord has blessed me with incredible prayer warriors who are reading this. If you would be so kind to post a comment and let me know who you are. If you have prayer request put it in the comments so myself and others can pray for you as well. Thanks in advance for your prayers!!!
Blessings--
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