You've probably heard the word "orphan" so many times that it's just a cliche church word. You've heard the command in Isaiah 1:17 to "take up the cause of the fatherless" so much that it doesn't feel like a command anymore, but just another passionate plea for your interest in something you're not interested in. I know exactly how this feels. because that's how I've always felt.
Until I realized what exactly this call is about. To care for the orphans (adoption, financial support, foster care, just taking time to love the kids, you name it...) is an invitation to share in the joy of living out the gospel! It's a gospel-motivated love. It's action motivated by a heart that breaks for what breaks God's heart. I'm not trying to sugar coat this. I really believe that because God has adopted messed up people like us as His sons, that should move us into action! That should give us exceeding joy in showing in a physical way that same kind of humble love for orphans.
God goes so far as to say that this command is one of the most basic things for us as Christians. If you love me, you love orphans. It's that explicit in James 1:27. "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
Amen! We are missing out. This is a simple opportunity to store up non-perishable treasures in heaven by giving up some temporary conveniences and some perishable earthly goods. thanks for the reminder, as always.
ReplyDeleteSo true, Lauren! This is something God's been laying on my heart for a few months now- it's awesome to find people that feel the same way. Thanks for sharing. :)
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