Daniel & David

Above all else, our prayer for the boys has always been that they will follow the Lord their whole lives. When we first adopted them, we were thrilled to learn that they had both accepted Jesus as savior and lord of their lives.  We quickly became aware that they were quite familiar with the Bible.  Both have demonstrated wisdom – Daniel to a very impressive degree – and an ability to apply Biblical principles to every day life.

So it was really not a huge surprise when they expressed interest in being baptized. But it was a huge joy!  Our friend and pastor, Paul Moffett, performed the baptisms.  Paul wrote one of our reference letters leading up to adoption, so it was a special treat all around.  As he spoke with the boys, he mentioned our personal history as well as the story of the Ethiopian official mentioned in the book of Acts.  Ethiopia was one of the earliest places to receive the gospel, so we think of our boys as spiritual descendants of that man.

Daniel

The BIG DAY finally came – Daniel’s last day at Karshner Elementary School (and David’s last day of 4th grade). Karshner sends their graduates off in grand fashion, with an assembly on the last day which includes the entire staff lining up to celebrate the kids.

It’s amazing to think of how much growth and learning has taken place during the 3 1/2 years Daniel spent at Karshner. When he started, in January 2010, he spoke little English and had virtually none of the home and family experiences that his classmates had. He jumped in to the middle of third grade with much less preparation than all of the kindergartners.  He barely knew his parents and, I’m quite certain, did not yet have a grasp that his new family and living situation would last. He was surrounded by kids who didn’t exactly look like him, yet they were kids! They loved him and accepted him and he thrived!

Over time, they would experience his tremendous contributions.  We think of Daniel’s athletic skill and achievements and I think that helped him build relationships.  But Daniel’s huge heart and concern for others, and for doing what is right, is what really drives him and has led to his tremendous success.

Thank you so much to the staff, volunteers, and students of Karshner Elementary School.

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