What About Sophie?

Clint and I heard God’s call to the nations, prayed about our role in this calling, and have began the process of fulfilling this calling, but did Sophie get a say? Absolutely! We have discussed everything openly throughout every major decision we have made. We have explained and included her every step of the way. We decided right from the start we would always keep Sophie’s needs and growth first priority in every decision we make. We have shown her pictures and shared with her all the information we have learned about Ecuador. We even planned a short trip so she could see for herself what new life awaited when the plane set down in Loja. So the logistics about the location have adequately been covered. I think more importantly than geography, though, will be the opportunity to raise her being the hands and feet of Christ. To demonstrate daily what it means to serve the Lord and to love others as He loves us.

Sophie definitely played a part when we were choosing an organization to partner with on this new journey. We spent a few days at the OMS headquarters back in December and while we were there they were preparing a Christmas radio production, in which the missionary kids (MK’s) got to sing a song. We were excited when they invited Sophie to be a part of it and sing with the other kids, but what happened after the recording is what really affected my heart! The guy who was recording thanked the kids for their time and one of the kids, maybe 9 years old, spoke up and asked if the kids could have a prayer time real quick. They all bowed their heads and one by one the kids began thanking God for the man and his work producing the broadcast and asking for blessing for the mans work during production and the stresses involved. It was such a precious moment and it helped confirm our choice in working with OMS, due to the values they were instilling in their own children. 

Moving to a new country, learning a new culture, meeting new people, and learning a new language is extremely exciting and a little daunting by itself, but then you add in a child and Wow! There are so many more opportunities that await by bringing Sophie along! I have been told repeatedly that she will pick up the language faster than us and will eventually be helping us out. This is something I can definitely see happening! There are so many subjects kids take in school that try to introduce them to the big world beyond what they can see and Sophie will get to not only see a new area, but truly learn the customs and history and beauty it has to offer! 

I have been asked:  What about Sophie? or Are you bringing Sophie? You better believe we will not deny our child such an amazing experience that will help shape her future and will be a cherished memory for many years to come!  

~Lacey