In His image, we’re called to make room in our lives for being 'family'. But family doesn’t have to be blood-related; just ask Jesus’ father Joseph! Offering a home to children in the care system, be that fostering or adoption, can change a child's life for good.
Have you ever stopped to think what a blessing it is to have a family? Have you ever taken that for granted? Growing up in an orphanage, Marina* no doubt dreamed of what it might feel like to belong to a family. The love of parents, the security of a home – these were concepts she only knew from watching others.
As a teenager, Marina found hope and purpose when a visiting missionary introduced her to the love of Jesus. Through her local church, she found friends and families who welcomed her. Her faith became a foundation for her life, shaping how she viewed herself and others.
Marina’s life changed unexpectedly in her 30s when a close friend passed away, leaving behind her 12-year-old daughter, Anna*. Anna was faced with the possibility of entering the foster system or an orphanage. Marina knew firsthand the pain and challenges that would bring. Without hesitation, Marina made the life-changing decision to open her heart and home to Anna, determined to give her what she herself had once longed for – a family.
Today, Anna is 21 and thriving. She has a profession, a stable job, and a bright future. And better yet – she has a mother who loves and supports her.
We don’t choose the family or circumstances we’re born into, but we can choose to create a family where one is missing. For Marina and Anna, that choice changed everything. Their bond is a powerful reminder that family isn’t defined by blood – it’s defined by love. Adoption reflects the heart of the Gospel: a Heavenly Father who calls us His sons and daughters, no matter where we come from.
In the UK and countries across Europe, thousands of children are growing up without the security and love of a family. How could you reflect God’s love and make a difference in the life of a vulnerable child?
*Names changed for privacy reasons
Amy Hutchinson, World Without Orphans Europe
Reflect
"A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land." Psalm 68:5–6 (NIV)
Pray
Pray for children around the world who long for the love and security of a family, that they may experience God’s care through the kindness of others. Give thanks for those who choose to open their hearts and homes to vulnerable children, reflecting God’s love in action. Ask for wisdom and courage to consider how you might support children in need, whether through prayer, practical help, or fostering. Finally, praise God for welcoming us into His family and teaching us what it means to belong.
Act
Acts for you to consider today:
| Write a note or card of encouragement to a foster or adoptive family you know. | ||
| Buy or cook a meal and give to an adoptive/fostering family. | ||
| Sign up for a Home for Good Fostering information evening. |
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About World Without Orphans Europe
World Without Orphans Europe is a Christian-led movement that works across Europe. It empowers local leaders to solve the crisis of vulnerable children and families in their own country. Through its partners, it strengthens families so that they can stay together. World Without Orphans enables children to return to birth families when this is safe, and for others it finds a new family through fostering or adoption.
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