Thirty-some hotdogs and sausages on the grill. Twelve children running in and out of the house, trying to chase the barn cat and jumping on the trampoline. Eight different conversations scattered throughout the kitchen and living room and dining room. One chocolate birthday cake for a foster son. Countless stories of hearts burdened for children.
This was the scene at our home when we hosted Eagle Church families who are involved in or interested in foster care, adoption or Safe Families for Children. Seven families gathered together for fellowship and encouragement, and there was no agenda except for conversation and prayer. It was such a beautiful night—the Church is beautiful. I loved hearing snippets of conversations in the midst of children craziness. In the dining room feeding toddlers, I overheard two moms sharing about their adoption and foster journeys while finding wonderful similarities—both have been going to Eagle Church for a few years but they just never crossed paths! This is what it’s all about: building friendships, finding like-mission people, and encouraging each other.
At the end of the evening while we swept up a million chip crumbs and cleaned out the coffee pot, my husband, Bryce, and I marveled again about how important community is within the body of Christ. We cannot do life alone, and we most certainly cannot do the hard work of stepping in for vulnerable children alone. There is a dream: for Eagle Church to have a thriving community of families passionate for orphan care across all spectrums: Safe Families for Children, Foster Care, and Adoption.
“We constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of His calling, and that by His power He may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith. We pray this so that the Name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you…” 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
We want to invite you!
This is an open invitation to all who would find such a community encouraging and inspiring. Did you adopt 10 years ago and still feel the need for a support system? Do you feel a stirring to engage with Safe Families for Children by hosting children or supporting the ministry in another way? Is God opening your heart to care for vulnerable children through foster care? Even if you just want to learn more and chat with someone who “speaks the language,” then this is the place for you.
Community can bring the good kind of conviction (you should do it!), followed closely by encouragement to take that next step (you can do it!). So come join us! Right now we are meeting quarterly for fellowship and connection--our next gathering will be in July. Or we are always available to meet one-on-one (I’ll even make dessert)! Bryce & Jana Langebartels for more information.
If you want to help children but don't feel called to fostering or hosting through Safe Families, you can donate to help support Remember Nhu and Safe Families in their efforts to keep children safe. All you need to do is text "$20 Missions" to 317-344-8111. (Feel free to change the amount to whatever you feel led to give.)