Yesterday we began our new series, Wide Open, by talking about opening our hearts to God and what he might want to do in and through us. I don't know about you, but I was particularly struck in my own life by the Psalm 81:10 verse: "I am the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt; Open wide your mouth and I will fill it." I think so often I limit life and limit the possibilities for God, not seeking to really be fully open to him, and to have him surprise me with his blessings.

We also had the privilege of hearing from Kris & Kate Calderwood and Justin & Mari Hutt about how, when they opened their hearts to God he filled them with beautiful adopted children. Kris & Kate just received their court date, and hope to see Netsanet soon and have her join their family at the beginning of the new year. Justin and Mari shared Mattias with us as well, the new addition to their family this past September. I was speaking with John Winters after the service - who has also adopted in the past - and he suggested that we start a group gathering of those who have adopted, are considering adopting, or are interested to share stories, support, and more. I think it's a great idea. Anyone want to organize that?

I also shared with you some information about our Church2Church Partnership through Compassion International with Awassa Muluwongel Believers Church in Awassa, Ethiopia. Click here to view the video we showed Sunday morning of another church like ours in Wisconsin that has been involved in a similar partnership. I'll be headed to Colorado tomorrow to get some training and insights on how we as a church can enter into this partnership. Pray that this time will be fruitful and that it will help us as a church to open up our hearts to what God is asking to do.