Mama Sheep

For many of you, when you read this, we will already be in the air heading toward China. It is so hard to be a mom and leave your kids behind - I can not even tell you how it hurts, as I let quiet tears fall for the 4 blessings that I leave here while we travel. But I know what we've been called to, and I know God will give grace to all of us. However, it is words such as these, shared by a dear friend today - that really resonate with me. I want to share them with all of you -

Reflections of a Waiting Mom
I've got three of my four children in my fold, but my heart says it's time to go get my lost little lamb.

You know, I used to wonder how Jesus the Good Shepherd could leave the 99 behind (although He never really leaves us) to go and look for his lost lamb. I think I have a better idea now. A few years back, we were given the opportunity through B's job to go to Australia. I couldn't do it. I had no desire to leave my babies that far behind. Granted, they were littler then. But it didn't even tempt me.

Now, in order to bring my little lamb home, I can leave my other 3 lambs in the fold without me. I can go halfway around the world. This time is different. I need to go. I won't hesitate. For this little while, the one needs me more than the 3. And I know God will be with them when I'm gone.

That was said so much better than I could have said it myself, and it echoes my heart right now. (Adoptive moms must be heart like-minded!) Chloe told me today that tomorrow will be a hard day - I wholeheartedly agree with her!! So thank you my dear friend for sharing these words with me - as we go to find our little lamb.......