When most people reference the changing of the family structure, it’s usually a negative connotation—signifying the disintegration of the traditional family. But there’s another force at work changing the family make–up that is as positive as it is powerful, and Christians are among the most likely groups to address this cause.
It’s called the adoption movement, but then again, it’s nothing new. Christians have long understood loving the orphan to be part of the mandate of following Jesus.
1) Today, there are more than 150 million orphans worldwide.
An orphan is defined as a child with at least one deceased parent, and there are 150 million in the world today. There are also 18 million “double orphans,” those who’ve lost both parents, in need of a home. That’s enough to fill a Super Bowl stadium—not just once, but 180 times.
2) While one–quarter of all adults say they have seriously considered adoption, only 2% have actually done so.
Adoption serves one of the world’s greatest needs, but while it’s deeply meaningful, it’s not always easy, for many reasons. And the gap between those considering adoption and those who go actually adopt reflects the many challenges that crop up to prevent needy children from finding homes. Adoption expenses are certainly a factor, but there’s also the emotional toll of the adoption process, the risk factors of behavioral or health issues and more that may deter prospective parents from following through on their inclination to adopt…