Adoption is a wonderful thing. It enables those who aren’t able to have children, to share in a special relationship with a child, enabling both parents and child to flourish. For those who already have children and still adopt, it again enables that child to flourish and be part of a loving, sustaining,
family unit. Many wonderful relationships and families are created through the process of adoption.
The Bible also talks about adoption, us being adopted into God’s family.
Romans 8:14-16 says; ‘All who follow the leading of God’s Spirit are God’s own [children]. Nor are you meant to relapse into the old slavish attitude of fear—you have been adopted into the very family circle of God and you can say with a full heart, “Father, my Father”. The Spirit himself endorses our inward conviction that we really are the children of God. Think what that means. If we are his children we share his treasures, and all that Christ claims as his will belong to all of us as well!’’ [J.B. Phillips
Translation, in brackets mine]
At the time this part of scripture was written, this had real significance. The pervading Roman culture was very hedonistic; devoted to the pursuit of pleasure. The most important thing in life was to enjoy yourself. Consequently, marriages were often not monogamous, and fathers did not know if they were the father of their children. Therefore, a Roman father would adopt a son to be his heir. So being
adopted became more important than being an actual son! Therefore, when the Bible tells us we have been adopted into God’s family, it actually gives us a very high status, as we too become heirs, and inherit all the riches of heaven.
So, no matter your upbringing or family set up, you have been adopted and are loved by God. As 1 John 3:1 says; ‘See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!’ [NIVUK]
So, no matter what life throws at us, no matter our personal circumstances, we are children of God, and are dearly loved.
As number 72 in our Singing the Faith hymnbook says;
Father God, I wonder
how I managed to exist
without the knowledge
of your parenthood
and you loving care.
But now I am your child,
I am adopted in your family,
and I can never be alone
‘cause, Father, God,
you’re there beside me.
[Ian Smale]
[CCL No. 15506]
May God richly bless you.
Pastor Steve