Imitators

Ephesians 5:1
"Therefore be imitators of God as dearly loved children."

This verse has become so real to me as I have been here in Romania. Kids are such imitators. And let's be honest, when they are babies we give them some pretty funny things to imitate. We will make silly faces, crazy noises, dance around like we have ants in our pants, or any other variety of things just to see them smile. And before you know it, they are copying our every move. Sometimes, even the ones we don't want them to! As I have worked with the babies and seen changes in them as they develop, grow and learn I have a new appreciation for our instruction to be imitators of God. Kids simply trust and follow what we do, as we should with the Lord.

The last half of this verse has also come more alive. Dearly loved children. I do love these kids so much! And God loves us so much more than we could ever imagine. When I remember that God loves me (and the kids... and you!) more than I love these children it is a little overwhelming. I'm so grateful for His love! How I long to be a worthy imitator of Christ.

I would like to take just a little time to send some thanks to those of you who wrote letters for me to open while I am here, who have sent emails and facebook messages, and for the occasional conversation on facebook when our times happen to match up. It has been so nice hearing from home and receiving encouragement. It always comes at just the right time. Stacy, your weekly letters have been wonderful! Liz, I didn't realize you had connections with TV stars! Tall Man, thanks for asking about my hard day and listening to my rant! Cheri, I laughed until I cried when I reminisced with you even though we are so far apart! Jonelle, I really appreciate that we carry on a conversation like we are not an ocean away from each other. Ali, your advice and encouragement are fantastic! Tammy and Sandy, it's so fun when your messages pop up just to say hi! I know there are others, and I'm not excluding you on purpose!

Love from Romania!