As God has blessed our family with compassion for orphans, He has called us to take action.
So how can we as the body of Christ make a difference in the lives of orphans?
Here are a few ideas:
1. PRAY. First and foremost, pray to our Father in Heaven to raise up an army of concerned believers who will unite together each in their way to care for the 143 million orphans throughout the world.
2. EXPLORE. Sites like Cry of the Orphan , 5 for 50 to learn what is already being done and how you and your family can participate.
3. SUPPORT. Challenge your church, family and friends to Re-Think the way they purchase products for everyday use, as well as birthday gifts and Christmas presents. Look for organizations whose profits help support widows, orphans and the "poorest of the poor" in their need. Here are a few to help get you started:
Samaritan's Purse (Christmas Catalog)
Zao Water (Water for the Thirsty)
Saints Coffee (Buy A Pound of Coffee, Feed an Orphan for a Month)
Trade As One (Change lives with everything you buy)
AHOPE (100% proceeds to Ethiopian Orphans)
From HIV to Home (Offers many ways to support HIV Orphans)
The 410 Bridge (Building Communities of Hope)
Gift of the Gospel (Give the Ultimate Gift of Eternity)
4. START. Consider starting an Orphan Ministry at your church. Here's a helpful site with examples of what other churches have done, and a list of organizations that can help you get started.
Help for Starting a Church Orphan Ministry
5. ADOPT. If you or someone you know is feeling led to explore the possibility of adoption (either domestically or internationally), pray with them, come along side them and introduce them to the community of Christian organizations who are practicing the call made to us all in James 1:27. Our family would be glad to help answer questions or assist in any way we can. Here's an great site that can also help get you started.
How to Adopt
May the Lord richly bless your service as you prayerfully consider how you and your family CAN make a difference!
(ABOVE PICTURE OF A TYPICAL HOME IN ETHIOPIA WHERE OUR SOON TO BE CHILDREN MAY HAVE LIVED BEFORE BECOMING ORPHANS)
