I’ve been speaking to a few people lately about adoption. I’m not in the process of it or even considering it seriously but adoption is something that I would never rule out. I think I’ve been blessed with the ability to not need having my own child but to be able to raise one and share my values with him or her.

A friend today reminded me that believers in Christ are adopted sons and daughters of God.

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. —Romans 8:14-18

God is not an exclusive God; He is an inclusive God—He wants everyone to come to Him, to get to know Him, and to enjoy Him. As such, when we come to God through Jesus Christ, we are accepted as His children and joint-heirs with Christ. God the Father accepts us and loves us just as He loves His own begotten son.

I’m very thankful to talk to others about adoption and see parents treat their adopted children as their own. It’s such a sweet picture of the way God cares for us.