I was just reflecting a bit on how God continues to place a burden for Africa on my heart.  For years we’ve sponsored World Vision children (and I urge all of you to consider doing so ), and Janel has been to Uganda for each of the past two summers.  It’s clear from scripture that where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:21).  I cannot claim that the small amount we’ve given to World Vision sponsorship qualifies as my “treasure” but  Janel certainly does!  And as my treasure has been there, my heart continues to have a burden for Africa.   If you pray for something or someone God will increase your concern for it.  That’s probably not much of a revelation to anyone, but I think it’s worth reflecting on a bit.

Also, it dawned on me today that three of my four kids are in Africa right now (although Sarah is about to leave)!  I have to admit it was kind of weird when that dawned on me.

I have no idea what, if anything, this means.  But i continue to have a burden for the people of Africa.  There is so much to do there and so many reasons to pray.  I encourage each of you to learn a bit more about Africa and what is going on over there.  AIDS heads the list of things that come to mind for me.  It’s infuriating that so much could be done and for relatively little money.  I don’t want to say specifically what is so aggravating, because my own knowledge is so fractured and incomplete.  I don’t want to lecture people who know as much, or more, than I do.  Information is everywhere, but I’m sure it’s not all reliable (it can’t be because the information contradicts itself).  Still, I suggest you read several sources and form your own opinions about what’s happening. 

Clearly God called us to adopt these two wonderful boys.  And just as clearly He is NOT calling everyone to adopt; He’s not even calling everyone to do something related to Africa.  But God calls every believer to do something.  I just want to encourage all my friends and family to spend time in the Bible and spend time listending to the Holy Spirit – and think BIG because He’s a BIG God.  He’s got bigger plans for you than you think.