...just asking...
Of course, you know my answer to that question. However, I ask it because I am struggling with the Church's (the global 'C'hurch) response to the orphan crisis. And not the Church, as 'a building'--but the Church, as in 'individuals'.
Let's just think about Africa for the moment--it is becoming a continent of orphans. A CONTINENT!!! FULL OF CHILDREN WITHOUT PARENTS! Not only do these children not have parents, in many places there are very, very few adults in general.
These children, and the remaining adults, have HUGE needs: food, clothing, shelter, education, health care...oh wait, and how could I forget: THE GOSPEL!
So often, the Church is unwilling to allow orphan care fall under the work of missions. For some Christians, these children might fall under the category of ministry -- but most often, they just fall off the radar all-together.
Orphans...not mission work. Are you kidding me? Are the fatherless not worthy to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ?? Do we not see that orphans are becoming a people group unto themselves. Yes, most are under the age of 18, and so they don't fit nicely into our church-planting programs.
But wait, Jesus was first recorded teaching in the temple at what age?? As a matter of fact, I think God's Word has ALOT to say about training-up children.
So, what's the plan?? Just curious. Do we wait until this current generation of the fatherless is 18-25, then extend the Kingdom to them? Ridiculous! Besides, without physical and emotional care most won't live to see '18-25'.
Now, I'm not saying that no one is doing anything, because that's not true. Families are adopting; churches are sponsoring orphanages; parachurch organizations are putting feet to our money....but, the demand of the fatherless continues to far out-weigh the supply of Believers. Did you lose sleep over that last night?? Apparently most people aren't...nor are they losing eating out, fall fashions, season tickets...you get my point.
Wow, how far could a little sacrifice go? How far could alot of sacrifice go?
Wait.
Maybe the appropriate word isn't sacrifice, but instead obedience.
How far could alot of obedience go...
Of course, you know my answer to that question. However, I ask it because I am struggling with the Church's (the global 'C'hurch) response to the orphan crisis. And not the Church, as 'a building'--but the Church, as in 'individuals'.
Let's just think about Africa for the moment--it is becoming a continent of orphans. A CONTINENT!!! FULL OF CHILDREN WITHOUT PARENTS! Not only do these children not have parents, in many places there are very, very few adults in general.
These children, and the remaining adults, have HUGE needs: food, clothing, shelter, education, health care...oh wait, and how could I forget: THE GOSPEL!
So often, the Church is unwilling to allow orphan care fall under the work of missions. For some Christians, these children might fall under the category of ministry -- but most often, they just fall off the radar all-together.
Orphans...not mission work. Are you kidding me? Are the fatherless not worthy to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ?? Do we not see that orphans are becoming a people group unto themselves. Yes, most are under the age of 18, and so they don't fit nicely into our church-planting programs.
But wait, Jesus was first recorded teaching in the temple at what age?? As a matter of fact, I think God's Word has ALOT to say about training-up children.
So, what's the plan?? Just curious. Do we wait until this current generation of the fatherless is 18-25, then extend the Kingdom to them? Ridiculous! Besides, without physical and emotional care most won't live to see '18-25'.
Now, I'm not saying that no one is doing anything, because that's not true. Families are adopting; churches are sponsoring orphanages; parachurch organizations are putting feet to our money....but, the demand of the fatherless continues to far out-weigh the supply of Believers. Did you lose sleep over that last night?? Apparently most people aren't...nor are they losing eating out, fall fashions, season tickets...you get my point.
Wow, how far could a little sacrifice go? How far could alot of sacrifice go?
Wait.
Maybe the appropriate word isn't sacrifice, but instead obedience.
How far could alot of obedience go...
As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance... 1Pet 1:14
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8
6 comments:
Wow. That's really something. Obedience rather than sacrifice. You make such a powerful point. I'm definitely going to have to stew with this one!
Erica
Wow, is all I can say and you go girl. I am convicted. How can I help?
Alisa, I wish more thought like you! It is a blessing to watch what God has taught and is teaching you through the process of adoption. Don't lose your passion for orphans. Keep advocating and most importantly, keep praying for God's little ones!
Blessings, Emily :)
I am a very long way behind you. But I am behind you.
Hi Alisa,
I just read your blog for the 1st time and instantly felt a connection with what you wrote!
I agree 100%. A word that God has stirred in me is "Ask of ME and I will give YOU the Nations!"- We want the nations Jesus! We want the orphans to be cared for and loved and taught in Your ways!
This morning I posted a blog about being comfortable- it fits with your heart, God' heart :) The main question I asked was "How many of us would be willing to be uncomfortable, so that our neighbor could be comfortable?"
God has broken my heart and my husband's heart for orphans and it is so encouraging to hear from those with the same brokenness.
For the One,
Jessica
Alisa,
I loved this post. I have been wrestling with where we are now that we are home with AJ and Selam. I know our season is adjustment right now but my heart is stiring - is this it... is this all God would have us do once we are through this adjustment period. When reading your post I was reminded of the 4-14 window. You know the one that says between the ages of 4 and 14 someone is MOST LIKELY to come to Christ. I immediately saw an Africa full of Christians. You are right! Why do we wait until what seems to be the wrong time (in my mind). Those places where children are the adults might just be a place of only followers in Christ is we got off our rears and did something huh! Love you so much friend. Thank you for challenging me in what God would have me to do!
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