God's Hope for Orphans: Every Child Deserves a FamilySample

“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David…” (Luke 1:30-33)

The passage above is just part of an incredible scene that takes place in Luke 1:26-38—a scripture we often reflect on during Christmas time. These verses describe truly earth-shattering moments, revealing to us the instant that the God of the universe broke the barrier between eternity and time to put His redemptive plan into motion. The prophecy and promise of a child entering the world was about to become a reality! Peace with God was coming to Earth in flesh and blood.

As amazing as that is, there is more happening here that is often overlooked. When God set this plan into motion, He went to great lengths to ensure his Son would be raised in a family. He sent His top angel to Mary to help get her on board. Jesus needed a mother, and Mary was the perfect choice. When Joseph wasn’t buying into Mary’s incredible explanation—understandably so—God went the extra mile and sent an angel of the Lord to him in a dream. That must have been some dream, because Joseph wasted no time taking Mary home as his wife so they could prepare for their new family.

The God of all creation knew it was important for His one and only Son to be in a family. That makes it clear how important it is for us to move heaven and earth to ensure every child has that chance! However, millions of orphaned and vulnerable children worldwide are growing up in orphanages, still waiting for the opportunity to experience the warmth and security of a family.

In the days ahead, we’ll explore God’s heart for the orphan and take a deeper look at His plan for the family. Every child deserves a family to experience all that God wants for them.

Prayer:

Father, thank you for your incredible plan of redemption through Jesus. Just as you ensured that your Son would be raised in a family, we pray today for all the children across the globe who are still waiting to experience the warm embrace of a family. Move our hearts to be part of your solution, and help us reflect your love for orphaned and vulnerable children. May every child know the blessing of a family, just as you intended. In Jesus' name, Amen.