This week we found out that we received $500 from a distant cousin. Needless to say, we were totally blown away. I have not spent a lot of time with this family member, but we reconnected a few years ago at a family memorial. We were so touched by her family's generosity and reminded again that God moves in mysterious ways! You know who you are, so if you are reading this, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS for being part of our daughter's life long story and journey home! We can't wait to introduce you to our Korean princess!
I am thrilled to announce that I will be leading a team to El Salvador from July 9-16, 2011. This will be my fourth trip to El Salvador in less than two years. El Salvador is a beautiful, lush and tropical country filled with contrasts. Visitors to El Salvador will encounter beautiful beach resorts and luxurious malls just miles away from cardboard homes and street children. El Salvadorians are warm and hospitable and the children that we serve in the orphanages are unforgettable. Here is what we have planned:
A soccer tournament & outreach
3 days serving in a government orphanage
1 day serving at a Christian orphanage
A construction team (which will serve at the Christian orphanage)
The opportunity to prepare & deliver meals to the homeless in San Salvador
The opportunity to experience God's heart for His people in El Salvador
I'm attaching the trip flyer as well as some of my favorite photos from past trips. We already have 8 team members and are accepting applications now!
The Vision
God spoke this vision regarding our adoption journey to Barbara Lange on March 26, 2010...
"Jenni,
I have made the decision to speak our boldly when God speaks to me. Last night as I was washing the dishes I received this "vision" of you. I hesitate to use the word "vision," but what I saw was a slide of your life. As I watched the show in my mind I began to cry because I was so touched by what I saw. You and I have shared many tears these last couple of years, both sorrow and joy. The attachment is what I saw.
FRAME 1
Jenni sitting at the South Coast Community Church reception desk with the photo album of her courtship and engagement to Mike.
FRAME 2
Jenni performing the gospel message in mime at New Harvest Community Church, showing her heart for the lost and oppressed. Jenni performing the gospel in mime on missions trips everywhere she is able to go. Her Father rejoicing at her obedience and passion.
FRAME 3
The anguished look of a woman desperately wanting to have children. Unsuccessful fertility treatements.
FRAME 4
God watching over His daughter, His heart breaking as tears flow down her cheeks. He whispers in her ear, "My child, I know how broken you feel, but I have a great plan and purpose for your life. This anguish, this heartbreak, this pain will subside. Joy is on its' way. I needed you to suffer in this way because of My plan is for you. You are going to be an advocate for international adoptions. You are going to spread my gospel this way.
FRAME 5
The births of Jordan and Aidan! At last a MOM!
FRAME 6
Having experienced the heartbreak of infertility, Jenni's passion for adoption grows.
FRAME 7
Jenni's passion for missions and adoption begin to fuse.
FRAME 8
The Ramseys start the adoption process for a daughter.
FRAME 9
Jenni goes to Washington DC and connects with adoption leaders. Relationships follow, teamwork begins. Jenni begins a new chapter in her life in the intl. adoption network.
FRAME 10
The slow adoption process is agonizing to the Ramseys.
FRAME 11
Jenni leads a missions team to El Salvador and learns sad news about El Salvador adoptions and specifically their own plans. Heartbroken again, but resolved to press on.
FRAME 12
More networking with intl. adoptions, hope for their daughter and another trip to El Salvador. Jordan goes to El Salvador. The orphans are overwhelmed and ecstatic that Jenni returns. Jenni and Jordan build "forever friendships and family" in El Salvador. Jenni's passion increases.
FRAME 13
Jenni prepares for third trip to El Salvador in one year. Amazing things happen.
FRAME 14 - THE FINAL FRAME...
Mike and Jenni, standing now, older, graying hair, surrounded by their sons and their wives, their daughters and their husbands and their grandchildren. Below them are thousands of children joyously celebrating Jenni's life. Her passion to follow her Father's call and purpose on her life is fulfilled. These thousands of children represent all of the orphans, adoptions and ripple affect of her life's work.
A work that could not be accomplished without the pain, suffering and brokeness she endured trying to become a mom.
Well done, my good and faithful servant."
