This morning began with a lively early wake-up call, courtesy of Uncle Bill, Cousin Billy, and my brother, all eager for that first cup of coffee. Now, settled on the front porch with my own brew, and with the comforting sounds of Brother Robert preparing a breakfast of bacon and biscuits, a quiet moment of reflection settled in. Even amidst the gentle aches of a new day, the thought turned to the profound concept of family – not just the one we are born into, but the families we choose and the ultimate family we are welcomed into through faith. This led to a comforting scripture, Psalm 34:18, reminding us of God's nearness in times of hardship. But then, the heart yearned for a scripture that echoed the warmth and intentionality of a loving adopted family...
This morning, as the aroma of coffee filled the air and the promise of bacon and biscuits hung sweetly, a quiet moment of reflection settled in. Even amidst the gentle aches of a new day, the thought turned to the profound concept of family – not just the one we are born into, but the families we choose and the ultimate family we are welcomed into through faith. This led to a comforting scripture, Psalm 34:18, reminding us of God's nearness in times of hardship. But then, the heart yearned for a scripture that echoed the warmth and intentionality of a loving adopted family.
Ephesians 1:5 beautifully captures this sentiment: "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—" This verse, while speaking directly to our spiritual adoption into God's family, holds a powerful resonance for the earthly experience of adoption. It speaks of a deliberate choice, a loving intention to bring someone into a circle of belonging.
Think about the profound act of adoption. It is a conscious decision, driven by love and a desire to build a family. It transcends biological ties, forging bonds that are just as deep, just as real, and just as significant. Just as God, in His infinite love, chose to adopt us into His family through Jesus Christ, adoptive families on earth choose to open their hearts and homes, offering a sanctuary of love, belonging, and unwavering support.
The beauty lies in the intentionality. It’s not about shared DNA, but about shared hearts. It’s about choosing to love, to nurture, and to build a life together. In the context of faith, this mirrors God’s deliberate act of grace, choosing us to be His children, not because of anything we have done, but because of His boundless love.
This concept extends beyond the legal definition of adoption. It encompasses the many ways we build chosen families in our lives. It’s the close-knit group of friends who become our support system, our chosen brothers and sisters. It’s the community of faith that embraces us, offering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. It’s the love and acceptance we find in unexpected places, creating bonds that nourish our souls.
The scripture in Ephesians reminds us that this act of adoption, both divine and earthly, stems from love and a desire for connection. God, in His pleasure and will, desired us to be part of His family. Similarly, adoptive families are driven by a deep desire to love and provide a home. This shared foundation of love creates a powerful and unbreakable bond.
Consider the implications of this. If we are all adopted into God's family, then we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. This understanding should foster a spirit of unity, compassion, and unconditional love within the Christian community. Just as adoptive families intentionally choose to love and support one another, so too should we extend that same grace and acceptance to our fellow believers.
Furthermore, the concept of spiritual adoption can inform how we view and support earthly adoption. Recognizing the profound love and intentionality behind adoption can inspire us to advocate for adoptive families, to offer support and understanding, and to celebrate the beautiful families that are created through this selfless act.
In our own lives, we can strive to embody the spirit of adoption. We can intentionally choose to love those around us, to build strong and supportive relationships, and to create a sense of belonging for those who may feel like outsiders. We can open our hearts and homes, offering a glimpse of the unconditional love that God has so freely given us.
As we go about our day, let us remember the powerful image of adoption. Let it remind us of the intentional love that brought us into God's family and the beautiful love that creates families through adoption on earth. Let it inspire us to live lives marked by chosen connections, united souls, and the unwavering love that binds us all together. Just as a loving adopted family thrives on intentionality and heartfelt connection, so too does our spiritual family and the chosen families we build along life's journey. May we all embrace the beauty and blessing of being chosen and loved.
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