Moments drag by because in each one, I am longing for 3 blonde Ukrainians to be by my side. And yet, as I rush around trying to accomplish all that needs to be done before we leave, I find that the time has flown by. In five days, we will be on a plane over the Atlantic. I have made that flight many times: for adoption, for mission work, for fun. But each time, there is anticipation, excitement, and gratefulness.Trips to Ukraine are never, ever boring; no matter the reason you are going. And when its to follow the desires that God has put in your heart to care for orphans, there is such peace and satisfaction in knowing you are in His will. And yet, as I look back, I realize that often when I have traveled there, I have found my grateful spirit invaded by a complaining one. I have determined that this trip, by God's grace, no complaining word will pass through my lips.
Now, don't get me wrong. My flesh will not be happy if there are delays. You won't see me dancing in the streets if for some reason I have to spend Thanksgiving in Ukraine. If things don't go according to my carefully planned out itinerary, I might cry, grit my teeth, or otherwise feel annoyed, but I resolve not to complain. I resolve to seek the joy of the Lord in the midst of any hardship. Why?
Because the Israelites longed for freedom, then complained when they got it. The Israelites were promised a land flowing with milk and honey, then begged to go back to a land of bondage. And I don't want to be like the Israelites. God has blessed me beyond what I could ever have hoped or dreamed. I was dead and he brought me to life. I was a sinner on the road to hell and He pursued me, called me his own, set me free from the life I would have chosen for myself. And now He has given me the opportunity to live out the redeeming love He has bestowed upon me. What, pray tell, could I ever have to complain about?!
From the moment I left Ukraine in August until now, I have longed to return. I just want my children with me. My home is incomplete without them. It is so much like being 9 months pregnant. Can you imagine going into labor, getting to the hospital, finally getting to hold your new baby then complaining about your nurses and doctors, your bed, your room, your food?! Of course not! Nothing matters in those moments except that you now get to hold that precious baby you have waited and longed for. And in a few days when I get to Ukraine, nothing will matter to me except that when I return, there will be 3 precious children by my side; pursued, called, and set free. And their last names will be Davie.
Do all things without grumbling or complaining, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. Phil 2:14-15
