It’s a funny thing: those of us with moms or dads who are able to love, care, and provide for us are usually the ones who take our families for granted. We tend to get annoyed with our parents for everything from their corny jokes to their rules that seem “so unfair.” But kids who know what it’s like when one or both parents could not fully care for them know that a good family is a blessing to be thankful for and hold on to.
Last month was National Adoption Month. For many families, this is a time to celebrate and tell others their story. Adoption is usually good news for parents who want children to care for, and good news for kids who need a loving home. Adopt Us Kids is an organization that promotes National Adoption Month and recruits and connects adoptive families year-round.
- How do you think kids’ lives change as a result of being adopted into their new families? (Better grades; parents who understand and care; good conversation, trust, and relationships with parents; a long-term loving family; a family who won’t give up on them; etc.)
- Some people who have adopted or who have been adopted refer to their family as a “forever family.” What do you think that means for them? (A forever family is one who has chosen you and is committed to caring for you. They’ve proven their love by formally adopting you into their family and their hearts. Like the boy at the end of the video said, it is a “second chance” in life.)
When we think about it, we all know that family matters. Whether it is our parents, our extended family, special friends, or church family, we can all understand the importance of a community who cares for us and treats us with love and respect.
The truth is, none of us can truly care for ourselves on our own—not in the ways that matter eternally. We all need a truly “forever” family: an everlasting Father, a lifelong Brother, and brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s talk more about what God did to meet that need.
