Laughter burst out among the group of onlookers as the cherub faced two-year-old pulled Ryan from his spot on the loveseat. Thinking he was leading him to play, Ryan stood in disbelief when the child then crawled up and snuggled in close to me — forever cementing his place in my heart.

For years, I watched my sister-in-law skillfully instruct a classroom of students. Her dedication to the children and families she educated was truly inspiring. It seemed only natural when she expressed a desire to love and nurture children in her home through foster care. 

Dozens of little ones passed through her home, each with a heart-wrenching story. Friends and family joined in prayer asking God to guide and direct the path forward in every situation.

We were delighted when God saw fit to keep the young toddler in her home for the duration.  As he grew, we marveled at the Lord’s ability to perfectly select this match as his forever family. His determined countenance and physical appearance closely resembled that of his new mother and Uncle RyRy.

More children came into her home throughout the years - each one received the same love and attention regardless of the amount of time spent there. 

Nearly two years later, God placed another toddler, a girl, who captured our affections. Her hazel eyes, brown ringlets, and round cheeks captivated our hearts immediately. There was something special about this child and we knew that she too belonged.  

During a Holy Land Tour in 2014, my mind was consumed with the two young children back in the states. The possibility for adoption seemed likely for our nephew, however, navigating the foster system proved trying and questions remained about our sweet girl. I cried out daily to the Lord asking Him to give us an opportunity to make an impact in their lives.

On one particular stop, we visited the Wailing Wall and were encouraged to place our prayers within the ancient crevices. As tears soaked my cheeks, I wrote the little girl’s name on my paper, folded it, and tucked it between the cracks of the wall. 

Standing in this holy place, pleading with the Lord on behalf of these children, I was overwhelmed by God’s desire for a relationship with you and me. He sent His only son to this earth to bridge the gap from sin, death, and destruction, to new abundant life. He desperately wants us to become part of His forever family. He willingly let go of His child, watched Him die on a cross, so that you and I might be saved through Him. 

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. (John 3:16-17, NASB)

But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 

(John 1:12, NLT)

The following year, family and friends rejoiced as God answered prayers allowing both children to experience their “Name Change Day.” In April and December of 2015, these precious children, that God carefully selected to be placed into this loving family, became legally united with two amazing parents. They were welcomed by extended family and friends who committed to walking the journey of life with them - training them in the ways of the Lord. 

As my calendar sent a reminder on the 2nd of December, I was instantly drawn back to the celebration of my niece’s special day. The halls filled with the excited chatter of those in attendance. Through cupped hands, our then three-year-old niece, declared her adoration to her Uncle RyRy from across the crowded courtroom. A culmination of years of prayer and hopeful anticipation finally answered. 

However, that day with its fanfare and celebration pales in comparison to the second “Name Change Day” our girl experienced last year. On this day, she decided to accept the free gift of salvation and follow Christ as her Lord and Savior. Family and friends gathered once again to witness her baptism, the symbol of her commitment to the Lord.

At the moment of her decision, she was adopted for a second time into her eternal family.

God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.
(Ephesians 1:5, NLT)

The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

(Romans 8:16-17, NASB)

For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26, NLT)

Where are you dear reader? Have you experienced the free gift of salvation and had your name change day by becoming a son or daughter of the Almighty God?

If you have, I am so excited to be part of this family with you! If not, I would love to talk with you about taking the next steps in your journey toward freedom in Christ.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for placing these children in our path. We pray you would move in a mighty way in their lives as their parents continue to train them up in your Word.
Lord, if anyone reading this hasn’t taken their next step toward you, I pray you would speak to them now and let them feel your presence in this moment. May they know your love and how desperately you want them to be part of your forever family!

In Jesus Name,

Amen