7-8“But blessed is the man who trusts me, God, the woman who sticks with God.
They’re like trees replanted in Eden, putting down roots near the rivers—
Never a worry through the hottest of summers, never dropping a leaf,
Serene and calm through droughts, bearing fresh fruit every season. Jeremiah 17:7-8 MSG
Most of the things God has called my family to do –doesn’t make much sense to us, let alone those peeking in to our lives. The only thing we know is that when the Spirit continues to nudge – we have to be obedient.
A few weeks ago Jose and I visited the St. Louis campus. We met a little girl named Isebelle. She doesn’t weigh more than 10lbs and she’s nearly 5 months old. Her mother died of TB back in January. When I met Isebelle, I immediately saw Rosie peeking through those gorgeous dark eyes. She almost took my breath away. My mind immediately traveled back in time. Rosie had so much sickness her first year of life – it’s a miracle she survived. She was 9 months old before she could even hold up her head.
While Isebelle is alert, her smile melts the heart. Yet, I can’t help but notice some significant developmental delays. Perhaps it’s because she was born premature or her mom had TB during her pregnancy. Maybe it’s because she only weighs a few pounds and she just needs some one-on-one care. Whatever the case may be, Isebelle isn’t thriving like a typical 5 month-old.
Over the past few weeks God has been nudging Jose and I to once again open our home and hearts. The thought of such an investment has been pretty overwhelming. After all, our twins are turning 3 in June! I’m sure we (or those closest to us) could make a list a mile long of reasons why a family of 9 might want to re-think adding one more mouth to feed.
Please pray for her as we begin pouring into her precious little life. Like the many Haitian children that have been placed in our lives through the years, we are loving Isebelle as if she were our own but prepared to follow the Lord’s leading in her final placement. The name Isebelle means “God’s promise”. Our prayer is that we can give her a beginning that allows her to convey His promise of hope to those of her generation and that she would be identified as a child of the King rather than just another Castillo.
Now, having framed this up in a palatable manner for those who cannot believe we are doing this again–We are happy to introduce you to – Isebelle.
