A FIRM FOUNDATION
This month's newsletter was written by Angela Lang, our Angel House supervisor.

At the Angel House we have a very specific mission, to minister to babies and children whose moms are in prison, primarily in Kentucky. We know that when we build on a firm foundation we do not build in vain, (Matthew 7:24-25.) Research tells us that the first three years are the foundational years in a child's life. During that time babies learn lessons that will sustain them throughout their lives. They learn that they are each unique, precious individuals to be treasured for who they are and what God has made them to be. They learn that they are loved and lovable, thus teaching them to love. They learn to interact with those around them.

We have the privilege of teaching those lessons. When our "angels" return to their mothers they will be secure in the knowledge that they have a hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) We watch in awe and wonder as they reach the developmental milestones in their lives: smiling, cooing, laughing, rolling over, etc. In short, we are here for them as their mothers would be if they were able. At the same time, we work to nurture that vital connection between mother and child, so that when reunited the transition is made easier. Babies visit their moms in prison, we take pictures (lots of pictures,) write and receive letters, keep a baby book, and talk by phone to moms and other family members. These children know who their mothers are. I have personally watched a little one lunge for her mom when she came into the room. I watched today as one of our eighteen-month-olds bent down to lift up a younger one who had toppled over. I see them play and run, giggling after one another, and know that we are bu9ilding that foundation for their futures. Someone said to me that it is a shame they won't remember what we have done, but I believe that it is their foundation, even though they won't "remember." Surely our Father sees, knows, and remembers all; that is what truly matters.

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." (Hebrews 13:2.) That is the verse that comes to my mind most often as I observe the activities here at The Galilean Home. This fall I had the opportunity to attend a roller skating party with The Home. It is difficult to describe the awe I felt as I observed the diverse group that the Lord had brought together. I believe that this is why we are put on this earth, to live in one accord, each ministering and serving the other. Oscar, without legs, skated around on a wheeled scooter in the middle of the floor along with several others who are unable to use their legs; the pleasure they took in the activity was not in any way dampened by their "disability," but perhaps enhanced by it. Lizzie, with Downs Syndrome, skated around with the best of them. Effie (from Haiti,) who walks with some difficulty, walked one of the younger girls around the rink holding her up on the skates while her legs went every which way. Becca, another of the Tucker's adopted daughters, was so cavalier on her skates that I didn't like watching her, and certainly didn't want her skating anywhere near me! James (an adult with Down's Syndrome) played with the others in a ball crawl enjoying it every bit as much as the younger children. Watching this group interact this unique "family" of people that includes volunteers, prisoner's children, those here for a season of medical care, or respite caused me to reflect upon the incredible ways of our God. In His awesome plan the Lord, who brought this group together to love and to minister to each other, brought me here to be a part of this group, ministering o and yet being ministered to. I see each of these precious individuals who reside here as potential "angels unawares." What an incredible joy to be allowed to serve in such a place! Please, come visit, watch the videos, read the books about the Home--it is only fair to warn you, however, that once you taste and see what the Lord has done and is doing, it will change you. If you don't want to be involved or be touched by the awesome work of God, it is best to avoid this place, because once you are exposed, you will be drawn back to help in this work.