William Justice and Ezekiel Bravery. 

Naming our boys was a laboring experience, which even lasted during part of the labor! We wanted their names to show virtues of a Christ-centered life.  But now, years after their infancy, we find ourselves aching for justice, praying for bravery, and leaning on the strength of God to become warriors for His will.  

Liam loves that his name means “strong-willed warrior” and often uses his name as justification to carry a toy sword and shield to the grocery store to protect Mommy!  But the middle name doesn’t come as easily.  Liam often asks, “Daddy, what does Justice mean?”

We all connect with justice on some level, but it’s hard to define.  Is it fairness and equality?   Impartiality and objectivity?   Or maybe honesty and morality.  Justice is a cry of our hearts, much like my boys who are quick to point out “that’s not fair!”  We yearn for it because justice is in the heart of God. 

Everything He does is right and all his ways are just. Daniel 4:37

Zeke's first name translates as "strength of God."  We find he needs us to repeat his middle name Bravery not when he's swinging on the playset, or giggling with Liam.  It's in the dark.  When he's afraid.  Before he jumps in the deep end of the pool.  He needs bravery when he's not sure what is going to happen next.  And this is where God the father calls us to live.  His Word tells us to press on as though to win the prize, to give more generously than we think we can, and take a leap trusting we will soar on wings like eagles!

And so with a battle cry for justice, we move forward with bravery.  But where do we find our strength?  Injustices like poverty, hunger, orphans, and widows compel us to fight, but with what weapon?  Food can go stale.  Water can run dry.  But what is more sustainable than education?  Knowledge and ideas - these are resources that grow the more we share them.   

A wise man is strong; yes a man of knowledge increases strength. Prov 24:5

And so we must fly.  We must run and jump, even in our brokenness.  Maybe God's battle plan will come to pass through us.  Maybe in spite of us.  Certainly it's a task for which we are insufficient in our own capabilities.  We know enough to know that we don't know enough -- we can't do this on our own.  We also know we serve a God that loves to increase the power of the weak.  

So we are running, to Burundi, to teach and serve, to provide knowledge so that those who have felt injustice may grow in strength.  It is a privilege to be on this mission.  Journey with us.