James 1:27
It is these words that often motivate me when I question our decision to adopt. When we started this process just a few weeks ago, it was full of excitement and anticipation as we imagined what it would be like to bring a little girl into our home.
However, the past few weeks have brought more than their fair share of reality. Adoption classes have been a constant reminder of the increased struggles that come with adopting a child that does not quite look like you and whose past is filled with painful scars, often unseen. Phone calls to insurance agencies and adoption clinics have opened our eyes to the high cost of raising a child with possible medical difficulties (or any child for that matter). Increased preoccupation with paperwork have put a strain on our time as a couple.
When the tension builds and the "are we really ready for this?" speaks louder than the call we were given, where do we turn?
We run back to the Word, to the only source of truth and cling tightly as the world around us reminds us that it was never a steady place in which to place our confidence.
The second portion of this verse from James really struck me this morning...."and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
The only way that we are capable of serving the orphan and widow "in their distress" (why did we think it was going to be easy?) is through Christ...in order for Christ to carry out His work in us, we must "work out our salvation" by keeping ourselves unstained by the world.
This week I am rejoicing in God's constant pursuit of our hearts through His Spirit and His Word. When we are faithless, He remains faithful.
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
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