“God destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will.” Ephesians1:5
Twenty-two years ago, I got a phone call that changed our lives. The office of a judge over in the next county called to let us know there was a cancellation in his schedule. Would we be interested in taking that slot, to finalize our daughter’s adoption weeks before it had been scheduled? Tears welled up, remembering the year-long wait for this precious, blonde-haired, green-eyed seven-year-old child to officially and always be forever home with us.
Much had happened that year. She came to live with us not long before 9/11. Shortly thereafter her birth mother had died. We worked hard to bond as a family that year with the help of our assigned social worker, and much prayer.
On that day, I jumped in the car and drove to her school. Waiting outside her classroom, I remember sitting down next to her on a bench and telling her about the call from the judge. “Are you ready for us to be forever family? Your adoption can be finalized in court this week!” We hugged each other, and yes, jumped up and down and cried, all at the same time.
After the legal documents were signed and the ceremony ended, the compassionate judge embraced us in court. He knew that it was among the happiest days of our lives, and he celebrated with us. Not all his work marked such happy beginnings.
I imagine as much rejoicing in the heavenly realm, when one of us human creatures comes to know that they are God’s beloved child. We’re all adopted into the kin-dom of God, welcomed into a cosmic family as cherished and chosen children.
To Kimberly Anne Copeland, Happy Adoption Day
To All God’s beloved children, Welcome to the Family
Prayer: Thank you God for choosing us, adopting us and loving us as our forever home. Amen
God’s grace, mercy, and peace be with you,
Rev. Dr. Anna V. Copeland
Senior Minister, The Community Church of Vero Beach
Comments