I remember it like it was yesterday. Sitting in the small room in Kiev.

Surrounded by many  baby girl things. Little pink overalls. A matching pink sweater.

Tiny pink shoes.  Delicate socks. And more….

And all I could think was “That’s it.”

After all the hard work of adoption

that was all I had.

No baby girl. Empty arms. Broken dreams.

Even though I had spent years preparing to bring her home

It all ended with sudden heartbreaking failure.

Even though…..

I was left to sort out my thoughts and to process the pain alone

before I returned to my daughter in the states.

Even though….

My mind wanders again to the prayers for healing and reconciliation

that ended in death.

Even though….

And then that sudden death.

the one that completely caught me by surprise.

I had no idea, no way of knowing.

But that ending came slamming into my life

leaving me shattered with unfulfilled hopes,  emptiness and a broken heart.

Even though….

And that time when there was no money left in the account and that bill needed to be paid.

Even though…

And that time when nothing seemed to make sense and night and day my heart beat with pain.

Even though….

Yes, even though you walk through that dark valley

He promises to be there.

For you. For me.

And even though every one misunderstands

He whispers His faithfulness and love.

And even though age gradually comes

with the changes of body, energy and abilities

He continues to give us new dreams and hopes as we place our trust in Him.

“Even though’ does not define us.

No, its something we experience giving us opportunities to lean upon the Lord.

Are you having an ‘Even though’ season?

Let Him draw you into His loving arms

right now

and fill your broken heart with peace.

Even though…

you are loved with a love that never changes

and you are never alone.