Adoption

Since Russ isn't using this blog, I'm going to hijack it!

Two weeks ago, Russ and I met with an international adoption counselor at Bethany Christian Services. Since before we were married, we have both felt called to adopt, but God has been talking to me about it for about 6 months now pretty consistently. After doing some research online, I felt like Bethany was a great choice for us since they have a strong local presence here in Chattanooga as well as other cities. And, they have a great mission that is strongly Christ-centered.

The meeting couldn't have gone any better. We learned so much information and were able to ask questions about the process- including costs, timelines, etc. Russ even said in the meeting that it's not "if we adopt but when"!

So, why would we want to adopt when we have been obviously blessed with fertility?
This is one question that we know people will ask, and the answer is so simple, GOD COMMANDS US TO! There are so many orphans in this world- even in the United States, and God tells us to take care of them. Maybe this doesn't mean that everyone is called to take them in and raise them as their own, but it does mean we, as Christians, are responsible for these precious children who do not have a home. We feel like God has given us the passion and ability to raise children and if we can save one life (or maybe two!), then we will obey God. We are passionate about not just giving a child a better life, but giving them LIFE. What better example of God the Father's love for us than for us to adopt a child.

Also, if God is real, then we know Satan to be real, as well. In my experience in being obedient to God, that is when Satan wants to attack the most. Russ and I are prepared to wage a spiritual war with Satan. Please pray that our marriage will be guarded along with our own two children from Satan's attacks.

We know there will be challenges - money - being one, but we are confident God will provide every penny and the answer to every challenge. We are excited to start this journey and pray that it will be all in God's timing.

Amy