Shelly and Dan
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Sunday, May 15, 2011

We've Been on the Move!

Last week, Laura and I spent a few days in Louisville, KY. Not at the Kentucky Derby. We're not nearly that cool. At the annual Summit for the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Here we are, sporting the infamous SixtyFeet tees.



We were torn trying to decide if we were being cheesy by wearing our own shirts - in the end, we decided we didn't care. And we were so glad -- we met and made so many new friends because of these shirts and the way they connected us to SixtyFeet.

This week we heard some awesome speakers, we met some new friends and we reconnected with old friends. But I have to say that my favorite Summit experience had nothing to do with Summit at all. At this point, I can't give any details. But I will say that I'm beyond grateful that God allowed me to be in the right place at the right time and to participate in something that was truly breathtaking. This is not really my story to tell -- but I'm hopeful that my friend will give me permission to write about it one day soon. I do so love a good God story.

The day after we returned from Summit, we loaded the kids in the car and headed to Tennssee for a family wedding. Here are the flower girls with the beautiful bride:


Here are the ring bearers. Tell me this is not a montley looking crew:





And in three days, Dan leaves for Africa. This will be his first time back in Uganda since we brought Hannah and Joseph home. Please pray for him. And in your prayers, please don't forget the home team. This will be my first extended time by myself with all five children.

Check back with me throughout the week as I'll be posting details about Dan's trip, including an update on the famous Ernest and Catherine.

I'll say that after my time at Summit, I feel refreshed and encouraged. For some reason, it helps to know that anyone who is involved in orphan care ministry is facing the same trials and daily challenges that Dan and I face each day. It's just hard stuff. Adoption, orphan ministry, orphan care... it's not for the faint of heart.

"Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." -- I Peter 5:9

This is not to say that I rejoice over the challenges and hard times of my brothers and sisters in Christ, but it does help to know that what we're experiencing is normal. Dan and I might face trials and struggles every day -- but many brothers and sisters around the world stand with us. And for that, I do rejoice. Orphans are dear and precious to the heart of God and each of them is worth fighting for. It blesses me to know that we're all in this fight together.

8 comments:

Jennie said...

Can't stand the suspense! :-) And so sad to have missed Summit. Where will it be next year?

Love said...

oh, i want to hear that God story!! =)

i'm at peace, but it is slightly disappointing to think i didn't plan on Summit because i thought i'd be in uganda. then, we thought dan & i might be there at the same time. and here i am. still. i KNOW He's got it all worked out though. i just know it.

i'm glad you feel refreshed & encouraged! will be praying!

Christy said...

I am glad you wore those shirts and that I got the chance to take that picture! ;) You two are both so sweet and amazing and I am honored to have gotten the chance to hang out with you for a little bit! Can't wait to hear the God story! :)

Jane said...

Glad it was a good weekend with the Summit and it looks like a good time with family in Tennessee. Sweet pictures.

Anonymous said...

Shelly what beautiful pictures of the precious kids. Love to see just a little bit of what God is doing through you all. I will be thinking and praying for you all this week! love, Anna

jkseevers said...

LOVED meeting you (in person), Shelly. Can't wait to hear the awesome "God story" I'll definitely "stay tuned"


We'll be praying for Dan this week, and for you, as you'll be home with the kids! ;)
Blessings!!

Katie

Lucas said...

i think those shirts are amazing. I wish I knew who to talk to to get a hold of one. We'll be praying for Dan during his journey...and you.

Anonymous said...

I've been mulling over 2 Corinthians 4; seems like it covers exactly where you are. I'll be praying with you.
Carrie