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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Illustrate the meaning of "Every Dark Cloud has a Silver Lining" (without using the actual phrase or literal example). (02/28/08)

TITLE: Mother to Nations
By Arlene Showalter
03/01/08


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“I’m sorry, Mr. H, but any hope of fathering a child is nil. Not going to happen.” I heard the doctor speak these words to my husband with finality.

Ok, Lord, I can accept that. No tadpoles, no frogs. Not a problem. We’ll move on to Plan B. Adoption! An exciting opportunity to rescue unwanted children and raise them for Your glory. I can hardly wait to get started. Hallelujah!

What? Husband refuses adoption? Husband wants no kids, period?

With two options shot down, I executed Plan C without consulting God first. Simply pretend kids were never important in the first place. Avoid all babies and never, ever open heart to munchkins.

Many years passed before God stepped in, opening a door for us to host a 16-year-old German exchange student. We enjoyed the experience so much we hosted another student the next year, and the next. Our lives became rich and full.

What? He’s leaving? He wants out of the marriage ASAP? What do I do now, Lord? What will the kids think?

Move to Plan D? Whatever can Plan D be? Keep hosting? Are You serious? Ok….

In ten years I hosted 7 Germans, a Bulgarian, a South Korean and a Pole; Protestants, Catholics, Orthodox and atheists. Six of my students made a profession of faith while living with me; four others expressed a deep interest in knowing God’s peace as I do. Of the ten, I retain close ties with all the Germans and the Korean.

I am so proud of the children the LORD gave me. Each of these young adults shows great compassion for humanity, particularly the unwanted in their respective countries.

I have visited my German families three times, touring most of their beautiful country, as well as several neighboring ones. I hope to return for a fourth visit soon. Every year I am blessed by a visit from at least one of these former students.

Isaiah 54 remains a beacon chapter in my life; “Sing, O barren woman, you who never bore a child; burst into song, shout for joy, you who were never in labor; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband,” says the LORD. (vs 1) He further promises that ALL my children will be taught by Him. (vs.13)

God chose a different path for my life and I am thankful I said “Yes.” These days when I am asked how many children I have, my favorite response is, “I forget.”


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This article has been read 478 times
Member Comments
Member Date
Dawn Garcia 03/06/08
This is a beautiful story! It's very touching and sweet and made me teary-eyed. Is it a true story?
Nancy Quinn03/07/08
Beautiful story. Thanks so much for sharing it! God is good! :)
Holly Westefeld03/07/08
I enjoyed this story. It reminds me of another saying... When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
Chely Roach03/08/08
What an incredible testimony. Perfect example of the topic, too. Great job!
Shirley McClay 03/09/08
What a wonderful example of both the topic and the verse! Nicely done.
Jan Ackerson 03/10/08
I love your voice--wry, clipped, totally your own.
Joshua Janoski03/10/08
These days when I am asked how many children I have, my favorite response is, “I forget.”

I love that last line!

God bless you for following his will for your life. I am sure the kids you brought in have been greatly blessed because of you. It sounds like you have been blessed by them as well. :)

Thank you for sharing.
Laury Hubrich 03/10/08
I love this piece! What a great job in sharing your life with us! Keep on writing!
Laury
Chely Roach03/13/08
Congrats on the highly commended Arlene!


   
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