Emily and I would spend hours continuing to talk about adoption and how our community need more of a support group. I was still struggling with Grant's adjustment and progress. We knew we needed more in our area and were in touch with others who were struggling with their newly adopted children. Emily was full compassion for those of us who were struggling. It is such a blessing that they did not struggle one single day with Ellie, the bond was immediate and truly supernatural - such a sweet gift from the Lord!
Last fall, Emily and her husband and Skip and I ended up at the same adoption conference in another state and it was there we decided that the Lord was clearly moving us to begin an adoption ministry in our area. They had a desire to set up grants for families adopting and I had a desire to get more education for the community. But ultimately we both desired to surrender to what ever the Lord called us to. Our hearts were for Christ and the cry of the fatherless. Packed to the brim with information the four of us decided to have one last meal together before we headed home. We stopped at Panera Bread just outside of Tennessee and sitting at the table we decided to call our new ministry Jeeah's Hope in honor of Ellie Jeeah.
Jeeah's Hope began and slowly God began to unfold His vision for this adoption and foster care ministry. It was very difficult to meet and talk about Jeeah's Hope because of my friend's loss. I would leave meetings and cry. I still very sad that I never met Ellie Jeeah, but I feel like God was showing me His heart and love for her through His intentional and relentless drive to start this ministry. I have loved how He has orchestrated every detail and at every need He has provided. It has become the new plum line in our home. We have set out on other "good" plans in our lives and measured it to His involvement in Jeeah's Hope. Right now this is where He has called us and where the river is flowing in our lives. It is exciting and fun and such a delight to work with this family. and This family continues to bless us with there faith. And wow the other new friends He has brought along in this journey are incredible -
Recently we launch the kick off of Jeeah's Hope Adoption and Foster Care Ministry! I cannot wait to see how God continues to unfold this path and the amazing people He will continue to call to walk with us. There is such a fullness walking with God and wow what indescribable passion He has for the orphan. I am so very thankful to walk along side of Him and be a part of His work.
Ellie Jeeah's short life will have an eternal impact on the lives of other orphans and children. He turns the ashes into beauty.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
This Saturday marks the one year anniversary of Ellie's death. We will be praying for this sweet family and praising God for Ellie's legacy.
