Keith and Theresa are a couple from California who arrived two weeks ago to adopt Ivan Ssemsu (I'm sure I butchered his African name but sound it out!). They have been through an emotional roller coaster these past few weeks as they have finished out the adoption process on this side of the world! Although I have prayed for their family through this time, I have selfishly enjoyed every extra day they have stayed!! They have been awesome companions for me, trekking out each night to visit one of the two restaurants we eat at for dinner. I will miss them greatly, but I am very happy for all God has provided and will continue to provide as they return to the States. Please say a prayer for their family for safety as they start home this evening, for ease as they take Ivan through Customs at the airport, and for joy and peace as they welcome Ivan into their home as a son. I'm confident they will be amazing parents for Ivan as I have already seen the character of Christ shine through their lives as they've interacted with Ivan's family, all the kids and faculty at school, and of course, with me!!
So, this past Friday I was escorted through the cities of Kampala on a school bus (van) with Uncle Samuel and Uncle Claud as my guides. It was such a treat to see parts of the city I cannot travel alone. I was also able to see where many of 'my' babies live. We have children who come from the "posh, posh" neighborhoods, and we also have children who reside in local slums. As we dropped off each child, my heart was burdened for their safety. In early years child sacrifice by witch doctors was all too common. Although much less frequent, children are still at risk, which was made very apparent to me as we dropped off each child and they were told to run quickly to their home. Some we were able to drop directly into the arms of parents or maids...others we dropped off at their street and watched as they made their way down crooked roads.
As I sat in the front seat of the van, holding one of the smaller children in my lap as she slept, I was struck with an overwhelming sense of God's protection in my own life. I confess that I have felt very sorry for myself in past years because I am not married, and therefore not protected by a husband. In that moment on the van it occurred to me that I have the God of all creation who sees my every move, and by experience I can assure you, He does go before me and behind me, as the Psalms proclaim. I am so blessed to be a child of the Lord, for many reasons, and as a single woman, I am especially thankful for His provision and protection in my life!
Thank you Jesus for protecting all your children, as if they were your only child. Jesus help us trust that when something bad happens to our loved ones, and most especially our babies, that we can't understand, You are still the God of all creation, watching over us.
PS-My intention with this blog is not to scare you or make you believe Uganda is an awful place for children. Actually, in many ways it seems a lot safer. Most children have the freedom to travel the streets these days in a way I would never let my child in America travel. But, it is still a fallen, and therefore sin-filled place, with dangers just like any other country in this world.
Nkwagala kno!
(I love you VERY MUCH!)
Jenna
