We love living in Bolivia really we do. Now only if we could convince our family and friends to join us- life would be splendid!
Our hearts are here and we know this is where God has called us, but this road doesn't come without a few bumps.
When we moved to Bolivia last July, we had anticipated opening our home to foster kids. We found out soon after that this would not be an option for us our first year here. We were both completely devastated but took it as an opportunity to trust God. He knew why this door had closed and He would open it again in His timing.
Well, we are beginning to see the door cracking open ever so slightly. Now it's not hard to find kids who need a home, but we want God's wisdom in all of this,
Tomorrow, we are going to look at a house that will be available to rent in July. It is spacious, perfect for more kids, and is in a great location (wonderful since we don't have a car!). We are a little hesitant to rent a house as safety then becomes something to think about. Right now, we live in a very safe walled compound with a guard who sits on watch and a German shepherd inside in case our guard happens to fall asleep (which unfortunately happens more often than not!), but if we moved to a house this would not be the case. Many missionaries here have had their homes broken into at least once if not twice or more. It is common, but even so I'd rather not experience it! Please pray for us as we look into some different housing possibilities.
On Sunday, after church, we chatted with some friends of ours who have 8 foster children (all under the age of 7) and 4 biological children. They are in the process of adopting 3 of their foster kids, which is beyond wonderful! However, once they do so they will no longer be allowed to foster, leaving 5 children without a home. Is God opening this door for us? PLEASE pray for God's wisdom and clear direction in our lives at this time.
Is God opening the door for you to care for the orphaned? There aren't just kids in need of loving homes in 3rd world countries. You'd be surprised how many kids are in foster care in your state. Check it out. Read the facts. Choose to help.
Even if you can't become a foster parent there are countless ways you can help.
Simple ways to encourage foster families:
- Offer to babysit so that the parents can get away for the evening (you may need special permission to do this so look into it first).
- Buy a bag of groceries and leave them on their door with a note saying how much you appreciate them and what they do!
- If you're a handyman ask if they need anything fixed. Leaky roof? Squeaky dishwasher? Car in need of an oil change?
- Offer to cook dinner and drop it by.
- Donate clothes and toys.
- Provide a listening ear.
- Pray for their family often.
