Water.

Here in the United States clean water has always been accessible. We walk to the kitchen or bathroom and turn on the faucet it flows out and we don't stop to think about the miracle and blessing it is. We drink it, shower, cook, clean, swim...

The story of charity: water - The 2009 September Campaign Trailer from charity: water on Vimeo.

There are about 7 billion people on the planet; and for nearly 1 billion of those people, having access to clean water is sadly not a reality. Not yet... but it can be. Every twenty seconds a child dies of a water related disease. Clean water saves lives.

You might have noticed the charity:water button at the bottom of my blog. It is an incredible non-profit organization that uses 100%. ONE.HUNDRED.PERCENT of their donations to fund clean water projects in developing countries. They have done some great work in Ethiopia. I encourage you to give water.


I know that I take it for granted that I can just turn on the faucet fill my glass and drink. For nearly a billion people that would be like turning on the faucet and having gold pour out.

fifty-six

We received our December waiting list numbers. There was not much progress, we moved only one spot closer to bringing our little man home. We are number 56. Hannah's Hope is at capacity now. As soon as the parents of the children at HH receive court dates, pass court, and are able to bring their children home HH will be able to take in more children from the govermnent orphanages.

We continue to wait and pray.

Gold, Myrrh, Frankincense

Tis the season... The stores are full of shoppers, the mailboxes are full of packages, people are scurrying to get just the "right" gift. All meaning is lost when gifts are given just for the sake of giving a gift; when we have more than we could ever need.

I enjoy aspects of the Christmas season. The lights, trees, seasonal decor and gift giving are all fun; but not what Christmas is all about. Sadly the true reason for the celebration of Christmas is too easily forgotten. It breaks my heart that so many people get so wrapped up in the commercialism and materialism of this season without ever thinking about the greatest gift, Jesus.
Each year Dave and I discuss gift giving and decide to do less than the year before. This year we are trying to only give handmade gifts, gifts that support fair trade, or giving in the name of someone else.
Throughout the adoption process God has been developing a deeper world view in our hearts and minds. We keep learning staggering statistics that can't be ignored. We live a life full of blessings and want to live a life that blesses others for the glory of God.

The sermon series at church this season is Advent Conspiracy and the focus is to Give Presence instead of presents. I am glad that our church is participating in this.