When we first came up with the idea to have a garage sale to raise funds for our upcoming mission trip and adoption process to follow, we had no idea what was in store. We ended up getting connected with two women that I had formerly known mainly through mutual friends, who have now become so dear to me through the process of coordinating the sale. The relationships built and people we've met have honestly been one of the sweetest parts of our journey so far. Lisa and Angie - words cannot express how grateful we are for how God used you to encourage, strengthen and build us up! You guys were the heartbeat of it all.
To all of you who donated items for the garage sale - Thank You! It obviously wouldn't have been possible without your contributions. As I reflected on the whole experience, I was reminded of the parable from Mark 6 in which the five loaves and two fish were offered up and Jesus multiplies it to feed five thousand. Some of you may have thought that what you gave was small but God took it all and multiplied it beyond our imagination! A modern day parable.
We are also thankful for those who made the yummy treats for our bake sale! The kids had such a fun time interacting with their customers and it made them feel special to have their own little job. :)
Our volunteers were unbelievable! Setting aside time out of your busy lives to come and help us prep, organize and clean up, meant the world to us. Many hands made the work feel so doable. We want to give a special shout-out to Lisa, Angie, Megan, Amber, and Ike. Your presence was extremely valuable to us. Also, props to our connection group for stepping up and supporting us!
Lastly, we are beyond grateful for all those who came to our garage sale! We couldn't have dreamed that we'd get the turnout that we did. It was a blast to see so many people show up on our first day. Every time someone generously donated or said "keep the change", Lisa would ring her bell. Every time I heard that sound from across the yard, my heart would swell in knowing that God was blessing us.
One of the neatest parts of the experience were the stories of adoption. Left and right, we had people engaging us in conversation that they personally had been adopted or had adopted children into their family and therefore when they saw the ads & signs, felt compelled to come and give, regardless of if they decided to purchase anything. God's fingerprints were all over these situations. A few hours after the sale ended on Saturday, as we were sitting down to eat dinner as a family, there was a knock on the door. I answered it to find a young woman in tears, holding out cash. She informed me that in her opinion, it wasn't much but that she really wanted to give it to our family. She herself had been adopted as a baby. I'll not forget her words. "What you guys are doing...it won't always be easy. But it's worth it."
Another story that unfolded before our eyes left a lasting impact. Two gentlemen came looking for a bicycle, which they mentioned was going to replace the recently stolen bike that one of them had owned. As they were discussing how they would pay for it on their slim budget, the ladies standing behind them stepped forward and bought it for him. How humbling that God let us play a small part in such encouraging encounters! He gave us eyes to see the small miracles happening all around, within the large one.
Throughout our journey thus far, while sharing how God changed our hearts about the financial aspect of adoption, I've openly talked about how we are bringing nothing to the table dollar wise to bring our child home. We are going into this knowing that it will truly be trusting God with each step of the way to provide. It will be ALL HIM. He has given us unwavering confidence that He will do just that. As I sat and listened to the message the following day on Sunday, Jordan noted that in terms of our relationship with God, we bring nothing to the table. My ears perked up because...there's that phrase again. I realized that our financial situation is actually a picture of the gospel. We bring nothing and in exchange, He gives us everything. And the Holy Spirit seemed to say, "Isn't that how my kingdom is?" Since we bring nothing to the table, we recognize that it is clearly all God's doing. We rest in HIS performance.
God showed up big and communicated to us that He's got this. We will remember this going forward and it will be what keeps us going on the days where it's hard to see what He's doing. We know those days will come. For now though, we celebrate! Hallelujah for an unforgettable, amazing experience way beyond what we deserve!
Ephesians 3:20-21 ~ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
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