Julie and I finished our foster/adoption classes this week. It was no small task. 36 hours of information. We finished by receiving our CPR certification. So, if I see you passed out on the street, theoretically, I should be able to revive you.
What all of this means is that we could have a new child(ren) in our home in as little as two weeks. Of course it could also be as long as six months. The wait begins.
I’ve been asked time and time again why we’re doing this? We already feel very complete as a family. Julie and I have adjusted our work schedules to give great care to our daughter Tabitha. We love to travel.
In a nutshell the reason is this . . . Some people bring a new child into their family to complete their family. With foster care/adoption we bring our family into a child’s life that needs the love of a family.
Right now, in the state of Ohio alone, there are 17,000 children in the foster care system. Children that really have no place to call home. Children that would love to be part of a forever family.
Did you know that of those being held in our penal systems throughout this country, 80% grew up in what we call “substitute” homes? The vast majority of that 80% are children who were bounced around in the foster care system. What would happen if Jesus followers would start loving these children and bring them into their families? Could it be that prisons would begin to close? Captives would be set free? Ummm, sounds like something Jesus came to do.
Wouldn’t it be amazing to discover that this whole Jesus thing really works? As my favorite Tootsie Pop owl used to say, “The world may never know.” But then again . . . maybe it will.
Okay this is interesting: I just finished post on my blog about a book I read called “Finding Fish”…..about a kid who grew up in the foster care system……in the state of Ohio…..and then I click on your blog and read about….
-rick
Whoo Hooo!
Congratulations!
Way to get in the game.
I know you are going to make a great impact on a life, and I will guess that little life will make a pretty big imprint on yours too.
My husband and I are 23 and 25 right now, but we are looking ahead and hoping to be able to adopt children in a few years. I am praying that God will trust us with a child that needs a family.
Even though we don’t attend River Tree (we live in Columbus) I feel very blessed to hear about the adoption ministry that you guys have going on.. it’s awesome.
James 1:27.
What you are doing is so amazing! Caring for children in need is what God truely encourages.
My friends sister is in the foster care system and she has been tossed from home to home since she was taken away from her drug addicted parents. I know that there for awhile she was going through alot and her life just got worse. Now, fortunately, she has found herself a steady home. It means so much to a child that is coming from a disrupted family to be welcomed into a warm and loving family. I personally thank you for making a difference in a childs life. God wants this for you Greg, even if your family is steady now, he knows that you can change a childs life forever just by reaching out your hand and giving your heart.
Pastor Greg and Julie, Congratulations on completing your home study!! We can’t wait to meet the newest member of your family!