While GN was in the hospital, after his surgery, Grandma called her eldest son (grown man, adult living in Kumasi) to share the good news of how GN medical situation. Her son came home to Bolga and reprimanded his father for being “foolish” by not allowing them to come home and not allowing GN to be a part of the family. He demanded his father apologize as well as allow both his mother (Grandma) and baby (GN) to return to their home. In addition, the eldest son also spoke to the entire village community. The entire community has agreed both are welcome back to the village. The request is for them both to return to the village, once GN has had his stitches removed. Naturally, this news was very exciting to Grandma.
Not to be the cynic in this opportunity to be joyful, Troy and I are somewhat reluctant to just belief Grandfather has had a sudden change of heart. There will be a meeting this weekend at the family’s home (where we originally rescued GN) with Mama Laadi, Dave/Ellen, Grandmother, Grandfather and “the head of the family” (not sure who this is). In this meeting, the proposed arrangement will be discussed.
Frankly, we do not have legal rights over GN. So, if Grandmother wants to return, we cannot legally stop her. Grandmother has been an exceptional, solid, and faithful caregiver to GN in these past months. Her heart has softened towards GN, and she truly loves this child, proving over and over she believes and sees his life has value. And, although we have faith Grandmother will still ultimately protect GN, it is still our flesh alerting us this may still be too soon. OSIF is not advocating placing or allowing GN to remain in an unsafe environment or situation. And, so, in the upcoming meeting, Dave/Ellen will assess the living situation and the conversation. They will ensure Grandfather, the family, and the village is all made aware Grandfather will be held responsible for any negative action taken in GN’s care. In Ghana, and many African cultures, but specifically here in this area, the family relies on everyone to maintain and participate in the support of the family (farming, etc.) When one person (disabled child) is unable, it creates a burden. It is equally important Grandfather understands, in GN’s case, (1) GN has sponsors who will continue to support him monthly to ensure he receives necessary medical/nutritional care and (2) Dave/Ellen will be popping in unannounced periodically, often to check in on how his care and situation is. If at any time there is concern for his wellbeing (an unexplainable scratch, bruise, etc) the police will be contacted.
So, where does this leave us…this whole situation needs prayer and we would love it if you could join us as we lift these and all other items the Lord places on your heart to pray about as intercessors for GN, his family, Dave/Ellen, Mama Laadi, and all others who will eventually become involved. (We have also asked Daddy Eddie to continue to be our Ghanaian on the field to keep us grounded. J)
Here is our take on the situation…
OSIF is founded on the concept of reintegration, with a 100% goal. However, timing is everything and what we want and what is God’s plan is not always at the same pace. Having said that, the truth is Troy and I both feel reluctant to reintegrate just yet. It was just a couple weeks ago Grandfather was threatening to kill, and proved his aggressive anger by showing up and hurting GN just prior to this threat (right before surgery). So, to believe there is an instant change of heart is difficult to comprehend. However, four things we know without a shadow of a doubt,
1. Our God supersedes anything and everything, if we allow Him control!
2. God’s plans do not always make sense to us, in our flesh, in our logic.
3. We are not there.
4. We are not Ghanaian.
The thing about #3 & #4 is Ghanaian culture is not like our western culture. And, we are here in the US, not currently there where this is happening. We are not on the ground where God is most certainly at work in this family. We have to have complete trust God will provide necessary guidance to Mama Laadi and Dave/Ellen as they arrive at the family’s home for this weekend’s meeting. We trust God, and we trust those we’ve entrusted with GN are tremendous advocates for GN and his future and his HUGE testimony. So, the very best thing we can do…is pray!The prayer requests:
· Dave/Ellen to hear and see where God is leading regarding the upcoming meeting with Grandfather. And, if God is providing sensitivity to reveal GN is not safe (at this time) in the home/village, Grandmother would be receptive to Dave/Ellen’s recommendations, comments, and suggestions.
· Continue to pray God’s Will for GN would ultimately be done. We know God HAS a plan, but we also know God gave us all freewill. We need to remain in prayer the decisions made regarding GN’s care ultimately remain w/in the center of God’s Will.
· Prayer and faith the necessary funding would begin and continue to pour in for his ongoing care, regardless of the living arrangement decision.
· Pray the Lord would provide peace to those who are not there in person to see these family changes, those who were there when GN was rescued. God to provide peace to those of us reluctant in flesh, and trust God’s plan is the best plan and those on the ground will seek where God is in this situation. God would change our heart to match His heart (God’s heart).
Thanks for constantly keeping up with my updates. If at any time you want to stop receiving these updates, please just let me know! Thanks again!
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