My journey with Show Hope began last year when I had the opportunity to travel to Maria’s Big House of Hope. I’ll never forget waking up each day and listening to the pitter-patter of little feet and baby giggles while I drank my morning coffee. I met my Jesus face-to-face as I gazed into the eyes of His treasures. I laughed with them as we played the tickle game, snuggled them while they slept, and wept over them as I dealt with the harsh reality that these children are indeed orphans.
I have spent this summer interning with Show Hope. It has been such a blessing to be involved with the work of this organization. The staff has been so wonderful to take me in as one of the team. We’ve had our share of laughter (Hosting three small dogs in the office and dressing up as cows for free chicken, just to name a few), and I’ve been able to witness firsthand the heart and soul behind this ministry.
As I look back over my summer, I realize how much I’ve learned. I suppose I came here with a fairy-tale image of adoption and orphan care, but orphan care is not an easy road. It’s filled with ups and downs, disappointments, set-backs and even failures. But in the midst of the dark moments, we have the assurance that there’s always Light at the end of the tunnel because we serve a God who has promised He will not leave us as orphans (John 14:18). Although the journey might be hard—it is a journey of abundant joy, triumphs, and forever families.
As my time at Show Hope comes to an end, I am counting many blessings. What an honor it’s been to play even a tiny role in the bigger picture of God’s plan for the orphan! Caring for the forgotten is a mighty command and a high calling, but more than that—it’s a divine privilege.
Jim and Abby Summer 2009
