“I don’t believe the theology of our adoption requires us all to adopt, but it does expect us all to at least consider the possibility of it.” (Jason Johnson)
I agree so strongly with this - but I would go a step further and add that the theology of our adoption in Christ DOES require us all to care about and be involved in adoption here on this earth in SOME way. Stephen and I are among those who do feel called to adopt, and through this past year as we’ve explored that and been in a situation where we almost fostered a little boy, it brought me to tears many times seeing how friends and members of my community - who don’t necessarily have that same calling - stepped up to support Steve and me in so many ways. Everyone is called to care for the fatherless, for vulnerable, hurting children in some way. Everyone. If we don't feel called to adopt ourselves (and not everyone is), we ARE still called to support and promote this issue that is close to God’s heart. Whether through mentoring a child in the foster care system, supporting a family who has just adopted by cooking them dinners, providing resources for birth parents, advocating for policies that support vulnerable children and families....whatever it is, our theology of adoption requires us ALL to be involved in adoption on this earth in some way.
It makes me angry – and I think it should – that adoption is not a COMMON aspect of our church cultures, our communities. We are charged with bringing more of Christ into our world, with furthering His kingdom on this earth – and adoption is a crucial aspect of this. It is actually an injustice, unbiblical, that more churches aren't talking about this, and that more families aren't asking if this is a call God has given them – and if it’s not, that we then aren’t asking in what ways God IS calling us to show his heart for adoption. We must be talking about adoption, how it is an integral part of our faith, and how it should be a normal, integral part of our communities....or else we’re wrong.
I am thankful to be a part of a church and community where this calling to care for the fatherless is common knowledge. To learn more about this call and what part God might be calling you to play, check out DC127.org for some resources.
