“When we adopt—and when we encourage a culture of adoption in our
churches and communities—we’re picturing something that’s true about our
God. We, like Jesus, see what our Father is doing and do likewise (John
5:19). And what our Father is doing, it turns out, is fighting for
orphans, making them sons and daughters.”
- Russell D. Moore, Adopted for Life
Matt and I have prayed for a long time regarding adoption. We believe it to be such a beautiful picture of what Christ has done for us. We, ourselves, have been adopted into God's family because of the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf. We have been grafted in when we didn't deserve to live. The Lord has been moving our hearts towards adoption over these last few months. I wouldn't say "we fought the idea". It's more of the feeling that I'm being asked to give up my deep longing of being pregnant, of experiencing life growing within me, of preparing for that life, of being excited to hear the crazy things Matt might say or do while trying to rush me to the hospital to give birth (wink). It was the feeling of being asked to give up the experience of bringing that precious life into this world, and seeing mine and Matt's reflection in it's little face. I don't know about every woman, but I would surmise most women long to know what it feels like to be pregnant and to experience that joy. But some longings are not to be fulfilled. Some longings are given to be sacrificed at our Lord's feet. Whatever you want, Jesus, we will do. Change the desires of our hearts to reflect Yours.
With that said, I sincerely don't believe adoption is "less than". It's precious and beautiful. It's life giving. It's taking care of the orphans in this world. It's a picture of sacrifice and love that we have experienced in Jesus. We feel honored that we may get to be a reflection of that picture and long to love a little baby (or babies!) with all the love that we can possibly squeeze out of these two hearts.
Our first effort at adoption was cray-cray (you know this if you read my last post!). We had an opportunity placed before us, and we were going to move forward until the Lord said "no". And He did! So, now we're here! We are still in a state of "not preventing", but seeking the Lord and His will regarding growing our family by adoption.
We have decided for now that we would like to pursue private adoption (rather than working with an agency). We are working with a local independent social worker and adoption attorney. Our home study process is just weeks from being completed...and we are ready in our hearts and minds to bring home a baby.
Here is where you come in! We need help in getting the word out. It doesn't have to be a baby in the state of Alabama. It doesn't have to even be someone you know. It can be your coworker's daughter's best friend's cousin's cousin who can't take care of her baby and is looking for a new home :)
We just want our names to come to mind when you hear a story of someone who is courageously desiring to give their baby a better home, a better life, one filled with love and protection, one who loves Jesus.
We also want you to help us by telling all of your friends and family that you know of a couple seeking to adopt if they hear of someone, as well. Just casual conversation, friends :)
Please pray with us that God's will be done.
Romans 8:14-16
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these
are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to
fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out,
"Abba, Father."
