The Disney cartoon “Dumbo” about a baby elephant is actually a story of mother-love. When Mrs. Jumbo receives a stork-delivered bundle, the elephant matrons admire little Jumbo Junior saying, “This is a proud, proud day!”
The plot line goes downhill from there as they discover the little guy has massive, flag-like ears, which is when the older elephants nickname him Dumbo. But his mother continues in passionate love for her offspring, and every day is a proud, proud day for her. When Dumbo figures out how to use his oversized ears to fly, his mother is nearly bursting with pride.
Children bring big bundles of happiness to their parents, and when they accomplish something wonderful or make an excellent decision, we parents get a thrill just watching from the sidelines.
It was a “proud, proud day” for me this week because of something my daughter Birgitta did. She was officially sworn in with 10 others in a courtroom ceremony, all of whom have been through 6 weeks of intensive training. Their preparation has been done through the local C.A.S.A. program, which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate.
Beginning next week, these 11 volunteers will walk alongside one child in the foster care system, becoming a friend and a familiar face through the different stages of that youngster’s time away from his or her parents. This might mean visits to the home, testimony to a judge concerning the child’s welfare, interviews of relevant parties, courtroom observations, time spent paired with a social worker, and other moments when they’ll partner with “their” child.
None of it will be easy, because each “case” is a sad one, and some involve the physical suffering of children. Trying not to get overwhelmed with the enormity of the needs will be part of the challenge for each C.A.S.A. volunteer, and several of them dropped out of the program even before the training period was over.
Families were invited to witness the swearing-in ceremony this week, after which a celebration was hosted by their teacher. And as I listened to two judges challenge the new Special Advocates and thank them for their willingness to serve, it was a proud, proud day.
Today Birgitta was assigned her first case. Of course she’s nervous, wanting badly to do a good job, despite never having done anything like this before. But Scripture says, “God blesses those who work for peace.” (Matthew 5:9) I admire her greatly in her willingness to step out and do something that will be very difficult. She doesn’t have to do it but simply wants to…. with a passion.
It defies logic, and for that reason, I know it is God who has called her to “fly” into this task, and my prayer for her is:
“May the God of peace…. equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him.” (Hebrews 13:20)
Congratulations to Birgitta! I’m sure the child she is assigned to will be blessed. It’s wonderful that instead of just wondering about it and thinking “someone ought to help those kids”, Birgitta signed up and followed through!! With God’s help, I know she’ll do a great job! 🙂
You go, Birgitta! I’m proud of you! God will, indeed, go with you and will bless you for your willingness to be used by Him in such an important way!
Two of our grandchildren were adopted out of the foster system in Pennsylvania – all of those who worked tirelessly with them and for them were of great encouragement to our family, particularly our daughter and son-in-law as they navigated the court system. God bless you, Birgitta!
Way to GO, Birgitta!
Birgitta, thank you for your willingness to help children in this way. The Lord is hand-picking each child you will work with, and will be giving you His wisdom.
So proud and excited for Birgitta! May God use her in the lives of so many hurting children.
This is awesome! I’m proud for both of you, and rejoice with you in this endeavor, Birgitta! what God has called you to do, He will teach you, give you the wisdom you need as you need it, and you will be good at this! No doubt, there will be some major challenges, but with His help, yo will rise to them all and truly make a difference in each one……may God richly bless you!
Brigetta, so thankful that you are wiling to share the suffering and needs of a child in foster care. Your mother’s heart will bring tenderness and compassion to their situation, and your redeemed heart will bring the love of God to bless and encourage this child. Praying that God will give you the physical and emotional strength to bring hope and joy to “your” child. So proud of you!
How wonderful……congratulations! With the Lord leading and directing, this will be an outstanding time, for everyone involved. I am thrilled for Birgitta!
Brirgitta, congratulations on this new adventure for you. May you remember every day that you are stepping out not nuder your power but with the power of our Heavenly Father. May you experience opportunities to pray without ceasing as the Holy spirit guides the words you speak, and may this child and those to come see the love of Christ in and through you. I pray that you will use any opportunity that God provide to show His love.
Brit, really proud of you.
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