…hard to watch, but a story that shows how value every human being is and what two people who love deeply can do to rescue Sam & Esther

Part One

Part Two - The Recovery

I started reading from Ashes to Africa at 11:00 a.m. this morning, and now it’s 6:45 pm. I’ve almost finished the book; however, I’m not sure I can finish the book. I know that doesn’t make sense, but I’m at page 156 and it’s about all I can handle without tears.

I’m always asking myself, what does the gospel look like in today’s world?

This story may embody the physical redemptive narrative of the gospel better than anything I’ve read in a very long time. Some may think this book is about their adoption experience, and to some extent they are right. However, in my opinion, what they have found through their experience has transcended into the redemption story of all creation.

What does it mean to enter into the story of redemption and restoration that is the nature of God? I think Josh and Amy Bottomly have a pretty good head start in this journey, and I think we could all benefit greatly to sit and listen to their experience. Frankly, I dare you to read their story because I don’t think anyone can return to “life as we know it” afterwards.

At Q this past week Tim Keel made the statement, “If you think Jesus died only for you and I to go to heaven, your God is too small. Heaven is the outcome; it’s not the purpose.” Unfortunately, too many times too many people settle for less than the full gospel as proclaimed in the message of Jesus. When someone moves from “believing to belonging” as the Bottomly’s state, life takes on a new mission and a new purpose.

Corrie finished their book some weeks ago…can’t wait to discuss it with her. I think I have a new understanding of where her heart is right now.

I am so encouraged to read their story, and I hope that I have the honor of meeting them someday. I know the gospel story is alive and well in their lives…now I’m going to go finish the book, if I can.

Part 1

Part 2 

Today is November 14th, and honestly I thought our little girl would be home by now…

I believe our house is just plain in a position of “stuck.” Actually, maybe not stuck, sinking in “stuck.” We are stuck in a hole and our only tool seems to be an anxiety shovel that we can’t stop using.

Another whole week has passed and that little square phone in my pocket that holds every song I own, tracks airplanes in mid-air and can tell me to turn on 502 State Street in Erie, Pennsylvania to find a Starbucks DID NOT tell me and CAN NOT tell the one precious thing I want to know.

…not a moment goes by without wondering if the phone that is ringing to get our attention is holding the only news we really care to hear…a voice saying “your court date is…”

…until it does we stand, we wait and hold tightly onto that shovel.