Circumstances...

I had an opportunity, today, to talk about New Horizons at one of the largest churches in town.
I had to use a microphone and everything.

Lucky for me, I don't mind getting up in front of people to talk.
Yeah-- talking isn't usually a problem for me.
Any anyone who knows my parents know who I get THAT particular trait from.
(For those who don't know my parents... I get it from my dad.)

I had a limited amount of time... less than what I'd planned on. But still grateful for the opportunity to speak about New Horizons.  I had so much to say, however, that I'm pretty sure I was talking WAY too fast-- and I *still* didn't get everything in. :-)

I never know how my "talks" go.
A couple were crying... did I bore them to tears?  Did I explain everything as to make it understandable? Did I fully communicate the desperate situation these kids are in? Did the pictures I chose for my Power Point accurately portray both the good and the bad of what I saw on the interview trip?  Did I plant any seeds? Did I pique anyone's interest?

I don't know. I hope so.
But it's God's job to open the minds and hearts of those who follow Him.
In this case... I'm just the messenger.

There are many families on the NHFC Families facebook page who are struggling with raising funds for their hosting fees.
There are many families who are not getting the support of friends, family or church family. I don't understand that. I mean I guess initially it's natural to have some concerns or questions... to wonder about finances or safety. But really... words like irresponsible... crazy... insanity... ridiculous... crusader... or accusing a mom of being negligent toward her own kids. People.. FELLOW BELIEVERS can be so hurtful!

In the face of adversity, there are a few families who are reconsidering their decision to host.
Not because they feel any less strongly about it, but because they're looking at their circumstances from an earthly perspective.
They hear the naysayers telling them they're nuts to be doing this.
They look at the financial burden it's putting on their family.
They consider the logistics of sleeping arrangements and transportation.
The doubts start to creep in... maybe this *will* somehow emotionally scar their own children.
They feel the lack of support and sometimes outright animosity.... and they wonder.

I don't want to come off as "preachy" here. That's SO not my intent.
We haven't had outright disapproval from anyone with either of our hostings.
We've been blessed to have not had to struggle with fundraising for our host fees.

Our circumstances have never been so bleak as to reconsider what we KNEW to be God's plan for us.
At least, not with hosting.
But anyone who has felt God's call to do something different... or to go against the grain... or to participate in something others would see as outrageous or impractical.... well, we've all felt the sting of hurtful words.
I'd guess we've all- at one time or another wondered if we *really* heard right.
Questioned "Were we REALLY called to do this?"

My prayer for these families who are so struggling is that they find peace of mind where there is none, financial blessings where there have been far too few, love and support from unexpected places, and the strength to continue in their convictions regardless of how their situation appears.

If, dear reader, you are in a position to help any of these struggling families, please consider a small (or large) donation to New Horizons for Children in their behalf.

Be a light where they have seen so little. Be an encouragement where they've had none.

You can easily donate through PayPal directly from our website www.NewHorizonsforChildren.org. Any donations are tax deductible.

Blessings to you.