a rough patch

Its been a rough few weeks in the aftercare department. It feels like we’ve gotten one piece of bad news followed directly by another and another. And while there are things that I know to be true (like it isn’t our job to restore the girls…that’s God’s job and we’re just his tools, and that God is at work in ways I can see and understand, and that ultimately God will bring justice into the lives of these girls)…its hard to believe those things…or at least its really hard to feel them. Its hard to feel hope. I know its there…I just don’t feel it!

I also know that we’ve gotten some pieces of good news the past month – it just seems like the weight of all the hard stuff simply outweighs the good stuff. I’ve had moments of anger, frustration, sadness, grief and feeling overwhelmed these past few weeks. But there is also this real sense that I am burdened for my co-workers who have been in the thick of this for years, and will faithfully continue this work long after I’m gone. I think of the sadness and discouragement I feel…and can only imagine the effect it has on my sisters.

I know this work comes in seasons…and this is just a rough patch. I know that the tide will turn and the good news will outweigh the bad. But for now, it’s a bit rough…and I’d covet your prayers…for me and for the aftercare staff. Prayers for encouragement and hope, and strength to dig in for another day of fighting for these girls. Prayers for restoration, in our hearts, and in the hearts of the girls we serve.