Dear Friend, Needs and Answers are flowing into the Sparrow’s Nest like the ebb and flow of Latvia’s Baltic Sea.
Needs . . .
Our first need was shelter for three children and their battered mother. The mother stayed with us for only two weeks because her heart is still with the abusive father. The children are with us because their home is not safe. We are praying that normal affection and the desire to protect their children will rise up in these parents’ hearts. A similar need arose when Anija, a teenager who grew up at the Sparrow’s Nest, called to ask for refuge from an abusive husband. Anija and her son Andis are living at the Sparrow’s Nest until a permanent home can be found for them. Anija has shown her gratitude by helping the care workers in the home and encouraging the other children. Anija’s situation underlines the fact that the need for a family does not end at 18 years of age. With your help, the Sparrow’s Nest can stand in as Anija’s family.
The need for safe, fun activities comes with the summer months, and we praise God for our farm near the seashore. Children and staff enjoy long talks with friends and caregivers and the playtime by the sea.
Answers . . .
The first answer came for our young teen Rolfs, who was placed in an excellent foster family where he will wait for answers regarding a possible return to his birth family. While he was with us, he opened up his heart and received Jesus as his Savior. He left with a big smile, a new Bible, and the knowledge that God hears and answers his prayers.
Some big news is that the answer has come for our four waiting siblings! I have had the privilege of working with their adoptive parents and have witnessed their strength and courage. COVID-19 has added a new layer of uncertainty to international adoption. The travel restrictions, quarantine upon entry, and fear of exposure for adults and children make the logistics and planning twice as challenging. In addition, the resolution to end international adoption has been set aside during the pandemic but has already passed two of the three required votes.
For many reasons, this is not the ideal season to adopt. But this family is determined to follow their heart. Though the circumstances create fear, they are not letting fear stop them. When asked why they would pursue adoption in Latvia rightnow, they answered, “We feel God’s call, the time is short, and God is with us.” Their situation is not unlike situations that many of us are facing—the task looks huge, and yet, we are called. When our faith weakens, we must remember: “God’s Presence brings His all—His attention, His Presence, His power, and His wisdom. We can step out with faith and courage when we sense His call, because He is with us!
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
We have five children who are freed for adoption, and the window for international adoption is closing.
Three of these children are siblings. Please pray with us that their families will come soon. Please pray for the two young mothers who found refuge this past month with the Sparrow’s Nest. Their options are seemingly limited, but with God, all things are possible.
Thank you for sharing in our work through your prayers and financial support. Your part in our work is vital. Your prayers are being answered, and the funds you sow help rescue children, restore their souls, and prepare them to return to a family. Together, we are doing Kingdom work, hand in hand.
We keep you in our prayers, thanking God for you!