Voice Mail

May 6, 2006
While we were in Wal-Mart renting a carpet cleaner this morning, Calvin realized that he had a voice mail message on his cell phone. Since the "city of Wal-Mart" didn't have sufficient cell phone reception, he had to go outside to listen to it.

It was a sweet message from Roxanne, compassionately letting us know that the birthmother had chosen a different couple. She was so encouraging, though. We just feel God's joy and blessings flowing through her, every time we hear her voice.

It didn't catch me too much by surprise. This morning, as I was praying for her, I felt a nudge on my heart, saying, "This isn't your baby, but keep praying." So, I prayed throughout the time of her counseling appointment with Roxanne, and I'm so glad it went well.

We are so proud of this birthmother for making a tough decision today, and are so thankful that God blessed us with the opportunity to pray specifically for her this week; to "stand in the gap" as prayer warriors. We are also excited for the family that will be meeting their new son soon!

I guess our emotions in this situation are similar to that of an expectant couple who goes to the hospital, only to be told that it's just "false labor pains," and it's "not time yet!" We are holding on to the faith that God is forming a child just for us... it's just not time yet.

As the song goes, "Que Sera, Sera, Whatever will be, will be. The future's not ours to see..." (I've been listening to this song on Pink Martini's "Sympathique" CD all afternoon!) I'm so glad that God holds the future in His hands, according to His divine plan.

This situation certainly alerted us of how unprepared we were to bring a baby home! It spurred us on to give a more focused effort to preparing (learning how to install the carseat, washing baby clothes, etc.) We've also made a list of the necessary items we will need for a newborn (and for traveling with one!). It was an awakening to our new season of life: being expectant parents. We've realized that it's not only necessary, but normal, for expectant parents to be anxious for their baby's arrival, and to prepare accordingly.

We have been so thankful that God has blessed us with a beautiful day today to open up the windows, and work on our spring cleaning. I also worked on sewing a quilt for a friend's new baby. We're excited for our annual camping trip next week... and for the days to come.

Thank you, everyone for your prayers this week. Your prayers are so vital, and so appreciated!