Ps. 10 – Adopted
Alone.
Abandoned.
Orphaned.
UNICEF estimates there are over 150 million orphans worldwide. To put that huge number in perspective, there are about 300 million people living in the USA. What can be done about such an overwhelming problem?
Thou, Lord Jehovah, hast heard what the meek desire;
Thou wilt establish their heart, and bow down Thine ear;
Justice for orphans and broken Thou wilt require;
Never again shall earth-mortals put them in fear!Psalm 10:17-18 from God’s Song: Psalms in Rhyming Meter
Eventually God will bring justice for orphans. But there is something we can do now that will help alleviate their suffering. Many ministries, among them World Vision and Compassion International, provide for children’s basic needs. We can “adopt” a child by monthly sponsorship for less than the cost of two weekly gourmet coffee drinks.
My mother-in-law had 6 children. After they grew up, she sponsored 6 children until they were each 18 years old, writing to them frequently and praying for them daily.
Our daughter went a step further. She literally adopted a child from China. He was five years old when he came to live with us. At that time we had a multi-generational home with grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, and three children. Bringing a kindergardener into the home who spoke no English was both a challenge and a huge blessing. He is now 12 and no one can imagine life without him.
Father-God, I can’t relieve suffering for every orphan. But I can help someone. Give me compassion to help the helpless and passion to inspire others to join the effort. And thank you again for our little orphan who is so special to us.
What about you? Do you know a child who can’t live with his parents? Can you encourage him today? Do you support an organization that helps orphans? Please share your experience.
Image courtesy Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalDownloads.net
God's Song 