Life Changers

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My husbands aunt and uncle recently took some foster care classes to become foster parents. They spent time and energy in what I'm sure were rather boring classes, of how to be a good caregiver - they have two children of their own whom they are raising just fine.

They recently received their first foster child - a 5 day old baby girl. They welcomed her into their home, into their lives, and want to share their love with her. They want to provide for her, care for her and give her the things she needs now. No matter how long they get this opportunity, they have chosen to share their life, love and all they have with her.

Another aunt asked why were they doing this, knowing that there is a good possibility she might not stay with them, that they may not get to keep her, but might have to give her back - knowing all this, why put themselves through such torturer? I too was thinking the same thing. Why invest and pour into, love, cherish and share God with a little one whom might not stay in their home? It breaks my heart to think of it - becoming attached and having to give it all up.

Marks Aunt's reply was simply 'We want to provide for her what she needs right now - a safe, loving, and caring home.'

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I heard her say that and I was like - thats it! It's not really about them, its about caring for one that isn't being cared for. It's about showing love to her. It's about investing and nurturing a little baby who other wise wouldn't be getting those things.

Parallel - Isn't this what Christ did for us? Didn't He come to this world to love and pour His very life into us, knowing that not all would welcome Him, that not all would respond to Him? Aren't we as Christians called to be and do the same thing - love and care for, pour into the lives of those who are hurting, or maybe even hurting others?

My thoughts and view on what my husbands aunt and uncle are doing really changed when I heard her say why it was they were taking the risk of doing this - the risk of loving and possibly not being able to keep the little one(s) they welcome into their home. It was as if I saw this whole foster thing in a new light, from a new angle - It's about giving little ones what they need, and building them up and supporting them through hard times they are going through.

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Personally - I'm convicted. I can think of times right now, where I could have poured more into a relationship, I could have showed more grace, and compassion toward someone. I missed a chance to love on and encourage a 'prickly' personality. Next time, I'll be more aware of an opportunity to share His love with those around me - How about You?


Rebecca -