the homecoming

Phew...what a whirlwind we've been through over the last 6 weeks,

Some ups and downs that make the best of us long for and need a breather,

a deep breath.

All the emotions of leaving a house that's been a home for 5 pivotal, difficult years.

Moving into your first "family home" with threats of war within miles,

Blessing your team and leaving them to carry on the work and deepest calling of your heart, 

And then, fighting the battle of bureaucracy, when your fight is tired of the 7 year battle.

But, you keep fighting don't you?

You keep pushing, in faith, because you know, that He fights for family,

He longs for unity, oneness and love.

Then finally, after all the blood, sweat and tears

To be part of this...

All we can say is, Thank you LORD!

 That our little girl gets to experience this beauty,
And be a part of 2 wonderful families!

To find words and ways to express our gratitude

Feels impossible.

You've walked with us when it was Dara,

Then Nede and Dara.

You saw the miracle when it became Nede and Dara and then, hmmm... "a friend".

Then you celebrated when we became Nede, Dara and Chad.

You watched us go from 1 Vanden Bosch

To 2

And now to 3.

Happy as a family, at home!

With all of this I am reminded of the words of Paul....

 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. (Thank you God!)
 So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart (Yes, each of you!). You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News (You saw us through so much!). God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus (Yes, indeed, I love you and your prayers SO MUCH!).

 I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding (And know Him more through His beautiful goodness!).  For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:6-11

(MUCH GLORY AND PRAISE TO HIM. AMEN!)