Adopted as God’s Children
“When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children.”
Galatians 4:4-5. Lutheran Study Bible
“God destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.”
Ephesians 1:5-6, Lutheran Study Bible
To many, as we come to the end of November and head into December there’s a sense of ending. Leaves have fallen, trees are bare, the grass is dormant, the days are short, and it’s hard to get enthusiastic about starting anything new. However, for many families, November is the perfect time to start something new. It’s been National Adoption Month, and building or reconfiguring your family in a new and wonderful way brings warmth and brightness that will overcome any cold, gray day.
My own family has been enriched through adoption, as I was thrilled to be a big sister when my parents and I brought my baby brother home with us; and later being in the county courthouse, where a judge finalized the adoption. Ten years ago, as joy-filled, nearly overwhelmed grandparents, we again witnessed the official act, took pictures, could hardly stop smiling, and celebrated a truly heartfelt Thanksgiving with our beloved granddaughter.
It’s hard to believe that not all that long ago there were those who considered adoption somewhat shameful, something to be kept secret, or that an adopted child was somehow less a member of a family than biological descendants. This unkind, insensitive attitude is in direct conflict with numerous stories and lessons throughout the Bible.
The Old Testament tells us the story of Moses, his adoption by Pharaoh’s daughter, and the life experiences that formed him into the great leader of the people of Israel. The story of Ruth, who was accepted as a daughter by her mother-in-law, Naomi, is a beautiful illustration of how love and commitment are what create a family and bind its members together. Ancient laws required Hebrew families to care for children who lost their parents, adopting them as full members, which of course made for a stable community.
Throughout the short, four-week season of Advent we’ll hear the familiar stories of the angel appearing to Mary, her faith that God was calling her to serve him in a unique way, and Joseph’s acceptance of the most unusual of circumstances. If we’re looking for a model of adoption, we don’t have to go any farther than the Holy Family itself.
And so the old year has ended. The new year begins, the words of hope and promise are shared, and we can look ahead, once again turning our faces toward Bethlehem and the miracle that awaits us.
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers