So today, I bring you my little blog post as a reminder that today in churches all around the nation, there are families hearing about other families involved in adoption and foster care, the orphan crisis around the world and children who need families. As I sit here writing, I'm watching God's glorious sunrise and it seems so very fitting. You see, God is the only one who can awaken our hearts just like the sun brings light to overcome the darkness of the night. First, there's just a little glow and the darkness turns from pitch black to gray. Are you listening? Could God be talking to you right now?
Our answer is usually something like this...."Oh God, I'm happy to help others, but caring for orphans is just not for me. I do not have the gifts or talents for this. I'll let someone else do that work".
Then the darkness gives way to more light as God calls even more to the heart. There's a red sky of love beaming up over the horizon and it's a holy beauty that draws us speechless. God says "yes, you my child". "You were put here to care for the least of these. You." Us. What if He is calling to you right now? Will you say "Yes"?
I know it's scary. I know there is fear. When we first thought God was asking us to do more and to adopt, we thought it was crazy! We already had been given six children biologically to care for and raise. But we gave it to God. Give it all to God and He will see this through! It's as simple as that! And there will be beauty and joy like the sunrise peeking over the horizon. His promises renewing each and every morning.
We said yes - and here she is today home seven months! She is no longer a child without a family - an orphan. But a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter and friend. Her reality and beginning could have been lost to statistics if God hadn't called to our hearts, changed us, and made her ours. She was always His, but now she can flourish and thrive with a family by her side.
The very first picture we saw of Stella Claire when she arrived at New Day.
Home 7 months - she's so loved.
Please don't wait. Don't wait for "the time to be right". There are so many children waiting. They need you. Now.
So today, on Orphan Sunday, while it may be all around you or it may not be mentioned at all, take a moment to ask God what he wants from you. Does he want you to support a family in the adoption process, take a meal to the ones who just became first time foster parents, pray for those children who are waiting, or adopt one into your family? It's not something that most people think about on a daily basis, so that's why there is today. My prayer today is that God will ask "why aren't you doing something?". Let's all answer Him with a "Yes!". And - then GO do it!
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5
Go be the light. Bring the light to those who are waiting for it. And - experience the LOVE and JOY that is waiting for you!
