I was on my walk today and my mind was going crazy. I had my Klove app playing on my phone, which I loved listening and singing praise music at the same time. I think when we are out in God's creation we can't' help but drift to thoughts of Him.
My thoughts started a little shallow...I could help but think about the Dugger's and their latest announcement that number 20 is on the way. My mind drifted to several thoughts about their choices. I may not agree with their concept of 'birth control', or shall I saw lack of it, but then I would be doubting God's divine plan for them too. But I mean really, I only have 5 and I find it difficult sometimes to give each child the individual attention they crave/need. I watch the show because it is a family friendly show that we can all enjoy... especially when they do some cool trips. I have seen them talk about how the older kids 'help' care for the younger and I have seen it in the show as well. I do not think the older children have to wake up the younger ones, get them ready for the day and such, but I also realize that it has to be that way to make their family work. I have found myself relying too much on my 10yr old to help sometimes and I have to stop to remember that he is still a kid and not a parent. Having said all that, now having a large family like we do I know it requires everyone to help each other out, and I think a healthy amount of that can grow great character in children.
The word "over population" has come up in articles and media statements with the Duggers' announcement an my mind drifted to that happening world wide. So many kids across the globe live in poverty...they are hungry all the time. It is heart breaking. Then you think about all the orphans and my eyes tear up. So many kiddos...
God is in grace and mercy took my thought from the Duggers to what we are called to do biblically. Say what you want about being called to foster care or adoption the bottom line is there are countless children in need of love. You do not have to be called to do foster care or adoption, although I would say it is amazing and rewarding. You can help 'orphans' here locally or internationally. Kids that have been left without parents is the classic description of orphan, but what about the ones who's parents work so much just to make ends meet? Or the ones who's parents are stuck in addiction? We can ALL help to care for 'orphans'. There are so many programs out there...like Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Shoe Boxes filled with goodies at Christmas time. Or if you have a love of sports, why not coach a team for kids at the YMCA? And, if you are so daring, get to know the single mom on your street and offer to help with her kids, (simply having them over to your house can make a huge impact in their young life). All these things are easy to say and so much more difficult to take the leap and do. I realize we are busy people...I know about busy, but there is a God who wants to grow us and bring others to Him...there is time when we walk His path.
I realize I am sounding a bit preachy and that is not my intention, I am just passionate about kids in difficult situations. And if you are called...adoption can be that ultimate in recycling. Crude to say it that way...maybe, but why not give a child who is already been born a home filled with Christ, love, hugs...joy.
"I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you." John 14:18
