Orphans and Adoption — I.N.F.O. For Families

There has been a recent resurgence in the North American church's recognition of the plight of orphans in our world. While disasters like the one in Haiti make for big headlines and calls for action, there has always been a tremendous need for Christ-followers to come to the aid of the "least of these."

Numerous times in scripture, we see that God's heart is broken for the fatherless. (See Deuteronomy 10:18; 24:20; 27:19; Psalm 82:3; 146:9; Isaiah 1:17; James 1:27.)  And it's a no-brainer that the things that break God's heart should break our heart, as well. Though it's sad that we're just waking up to this reality, it is encouraging to see the church finally being willing to risk much and sacrifice greatly to share Christ's love and life with the orphans of our world.

At Johnson Ferry, we're in the process of pulling together some people who share this burden. Our desire is to begin to inspire and mobilize the body to dive head-first into ministries that are making a difference for the fatherless. This may include going on mission trips that target orphans, ministering to foster children and resourcing foster parents, and encouraging people to consider adoption as a means of being salt and light in our world.

One of our team members has created a blog to post ideas and resources on this subject. He is pulling together some examples of what God is doing through other churches and ministries. Check it out at www.jfadoption.blogspot.com.

If this is a burden on your heart, as well, please get in contact with me. We'd love to have you help us join in the fight!