Late yesterday afternoon we got word that our adoption paperwork has been approved in our state and is headed back to Boo’s home state for approval. We are celebrating, as it means we should be an official family in another couple of months.
Coincidentally, or maybe not, I came across this video over at Raising Godly Children yesterday.
It really got me thinking. Sportsguy and I have always been open to the idea of adoption. It’s true that a culture of adoption in the church can have a profound influence on the congregants. The church we attend definitely espouses a culture of adoption. Foster and adoptive families abound, and adopting seems to be contagious.
Being around adoptive families and then adopting a child of our own has deepened my understanding of my adoption, as a Christian, into Christ’s family. I understand God’s unconditional love, His acceptance of me completely, His willingness to sacrifice everything, just to call me His own. His dedication to me, which is the same as His dedication to Jesus, His son.
As I have walked this adoption journey, my eyes have been opened to the needs of other orphans. My heart hurts for children in foster care, whose parents, for whatever reason, are unable to care for their children. How vulnerable these children must feel. As Christians, we must be willing to step up and provide parental love and guidance for these orphans, even if it’s just temporary.
In turn, our love for these children and obedience to Christ will deepen our faith and our understanding of God’s love for us. It’s amazing, really.
James 1:27 says this,
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
Are you willing to look after the orphans? If you can’t adopt, consider becoming a foster parent or respite provider. You could become a mentor or a CASA volunteer. There are many ways to support children in need. I encourage you to pray about it and follow God’s leading. You won’t regret stepping out of your comfort zone. I sure don’t!