By Holly Garcia

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4)

Almost four years ago, my husband and I went through one of the toughest things a married couple can go through.

We wanted children badly and were blessed with a pregnancy. Even better, it was twins! Then, just like that, we miscarried and they went to be with the Lord. No one had answers or explanations, just sorrow and grief.

A couple of years later, one of my co-workers was discussing foster parenting with me. My husband and I started praying and talking about the possibility of becoming foster parents ourselves.

Once we felt God was leading us in that direction, we moved forward and met with Jim Palmer [foster home developer for Buckner in Midland]. That’s where our journey began.

We have now been foster parents for over a year and wouldn’t change it for the world or trade it to change anything in the past.

Even though we miss our twins greatly, we know God’s timing is perfect. If we hadn't gone through that loss, we might not be where we are today and wouldn't have the little blessings in our home that we do now.

God’s hand is in everything we do whether it seems to us to be good or bad. When we see the big picture, we know nothing He does will harm us. It is all to better His kingdom. We lost our twins but have since gained three angels that needed us just as much as we needed them!

No one knows the joy it brings to us to have these children in our home. This has brought us closer to God in ways we didn’t even think were possible.

I pray every day for all Buckner staff and foster parents. Without Buckner, we wouldn’t be doing this and it’s a blessing to know our foundation is strong and that the support is always there.

Know that God has a plan. If we obey and follow His will and keep our faith and hope strong, at the end of the day we will be alright!

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28)

Holly Garcia and her husband are foster parents with Buckner Children and Family Services in Midland.