by Kala Loptien

The Plan

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“The Lord your God fights for you, just as he promised.”
Joshua 23:10 English Standard Version

As I sit here, looking out our dining room window at the ombre-tinted trees across the street, a twinge strikes my abdomen. I smile because I’m reminded that our son’s tiny hands and feet are fluttering in the womb. What we thought impossible years ago is now reality. I glance at my watch and see the stunning face of a seven-year-old girl I never dreamed I would call my daughter.

We’ve been married over sixteen years. Our hearts were crushed countless times as we attempted to build a family. Failed interventions, miscarriage, disrupted adoptions, saying goodbye to foster children all felt like a pile up of ignored prayers. Maybe even punishment, we thought. For the longest time, I wanted to control the narrative…

I can pinpoint the season He radically changed my thinking. I can’t quite wrap my head around what felt like a shaking/sifting/renewal of mind and spirit. This shift happened when there was nothing left to do but turn and cling tightly to God; when I had to be emptied in order to be filled. Through it, we were given new strength and confidence that the Lord was near. He was fighting — for all of us.

In this world, we know we’ll face troubles. Many of you have difficult stories of heartbreak, sickness and loss. It’s incredibly hard for us to reconcile with our limited, finite thinking. We need those reminders that His thoughts and ways are not ours. His promises are steadfast. He will never leave or forsake us no matter our story. His plans for us are perfect because the victory is already ours in Christ Jesus. Ultimately, God’s answer to our prayers is the best plan imaginable — paradise with him forever.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado