Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

James 1:27

On Saturday night Patrina and I had dinner with another couple. We knew part of their story over the past decade or so included adopting some children, but we wanted to hear more.

Over the last decade or so, this couple who had three children of their own initially adopted two more from an eastern European country – a boy and a girl. Sometime after that, they returned to the country and adopted four more children, all from the same mother. It’s not hard to do the math, but that’s a total of nine children in one household, all between the ages of 7 -15 or so.

While they gained a little fanfare from some in the church for their decision, they told us they felt moved by the Lord to do so, otherwise, they would not have taken on such a challenge. And a challenge it was as six children who were somewhat older orphans presented with different obstacles.

Today, all are grown and the two youngest are in college and doing well. It was a sometimes rocky road, but this family lived out the idea James mentions in the verse above. Most of us will not adopt, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t care for those around us who are in need. Just take a look and you’ll find plenty of needs in your own neighborhood.