He didn't ask us.

What a fantastic weekend of foster care training we had!  First of all, I cannot say enough good things about FaithBridge Foster Care (http://www.faithbridgefostercare.org/).  One of Aaron's best childhood friends has worked with FaithBridge for several years now and thankfully he got to present portions of our training to us this weekend.  That was really cool for both of us, but I know it was especially meaningful for Aaron. We learned with about 8 or 9 other couples, each having a story of their own as to what brought them to this weekend. We all came to this place through different avenues, but one aspect of our stories was constant...we were there because we know the Lord has called us to this.

The entire curriculum for our training was very detailed, and while we know we will never be fully prepared as each child is different, we certainly feel better equipped for the journey ahead.  One of the main things I love about FaithBridge is that they are, as their name suggests, a faith based child placement agency.  They do work very closely with the DFCS system in placing children, but they incorporate the Church and the Gospel into their care.  After all, isn't caring for these children ultimately the Church's job anyway?

Aaron and I have become familiar with James 1:27 over the past few years and it was once again spoken over us this weekend. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."(James 1:27)  It's a mandate.  He doesn't ask us.  He tells us.  Just as the Great Commission is given to us not as a suggestion, but a commandment, so it is for caring for those who cannot care for themselves.  If Believer's (the Church) were truly living out James 1:27, would there be approximately 150 children in need of placement but only 8 homes currently available in the county where Aaron and I live?? Probably not.

FaithBridge has a Community of Care mindset.  Not everyone is called to foster parent, but just as we learned from James 1:27, everyone IS called to do something.  If we heard it once this weekend, we heard it a thousand times.  We cannot do this alone.  We must surround ourselves with others who are committed to helping us - babysitting, respite care, providing meals, providing supplies, praying on a consistent basis for foster children and their families.  Or maybe you do have the resources available and feel the call to foster parent. Start praying about what you and your family CAN do if you aren't already involved!

Over these next weeks and months, Aaron and I will be begin preparing our home to welcome a child or children.  Since we don't have children of our own, we need things!  If you have any of these items and are willing to sell or donate them, please let us know.

-Baby Crib/Mattress
-Pack n Play
-Twin Bed
-Changing Table
-Swing
-Up-to-Code Carseats/Bases
-Stroller
-Swing
-Boy/Girl Clothing and shoes for ages 0 to 5 years
-Blankets/Bath towels and cloths
-Baby Tub
-High Chair/Booster Seat
-Bouncy Seat
(I realize this is a very incomplete list!)

This picture was taken almost immediately after our training was completed yesterday.  Aaron was all smiles until somebody had to go saying something about poop being smeared on walls.  Thanks for all those who prayed for us this weekend!  Keep it up - the fun is only beginning! :)