Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy. (Ps. 82:3-4)
Jamie and Kevin adopted four kids—a sibling group of energetic children, all five years and below. I loved watching their family come into church each Sunday. I’d give each kid a high five as the new parents grabbed their check-in stickers.
Jamie and Kevin lived out this calling to defend the fatherless by helping kids who needed a loving, stable home—but it was not an easy task. Some kids have learning disabilities; others have behavioral challenges. It takes a lot of patience, tenacity, and outside support to take the huge responsibility of adopting multiple kids. But, Jamie and Kevin were committed to raising them in a loving, Christian home.
I have watched their extended family and their church family step up to help in many ways. I believe very few dry eyes were in church on the Sunday that all four kids were dedicated to the Lord! A couple years ago, the oldest two were old enough to attend kids’ camp. Our team of leaders went the extra mile to make sure they were loved, encouraged, and cared for throughout camp.
This couple has stepped out obediently in faith to be a father and mother to kids who needed loving parents. We may not all be called to adopt, but we must consider: Where is God calling us to stand up for others?
Choose a foster or adoptive family to bless in some way.
Belinda Selfridge is a Wesleyan pastor, Tri-State district administrator, OKWU adjunct professor, motorcyclist, creative frugalist, singer, and bass player.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
