If you have been following us this summer, you know that Todd Agnew has been leading devotions through the book of Romans. This week, he talks about the amazing way that God adopted us. I know so many people who have chosen to adopt children from the US and around the world, and it is so obvious that it is a picture of the way that God adopts us.
When we repent, God could refuse us. He could say, “Well, you can be on my side, but you are the lowest rank.” He could declare us lower class or servants. But He chooses a more beautiful path. He not only changes what side we’re fighting on; He changes our identity. He doesn’t just allow us to immigrate; He makes us His sons and daughters. He adopts us.
“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)
Aaron and Jamie Ivey, our worship pastor and friends, have adopted two children from Haiti, Amos and Story. Fortunately, Haiti is not at war with the United States, but that still doesn’t mean a child can just change which country he is from. A child of Haiti must grow up and then apply to immigrate. After being a permanent resident of the US for 5 years, being a continuous resident for 5 years, having 30 months of physical presence in the US, 3 months in a specific district or state, being of good moral character, having knowledge of English and Civics, and being attached to the Constitution, they may apply to become a citizen of the United States. They are not guaranteed acceptance; that is the minimum to apply. Someone else must still approve them. But when Aaron and Jamie adopted Amos and Story, at that moment they became citizens. Not because of anything they did, but because of the love of another, they became US citizens.
“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons,” (8:19) We have not been given a new set of rules. We have been given a new heart. We have been redefined. Not a spirit of bondage unto fear, but recreated as a son in whom fulfillment and joy is found in pleasing his Father.
It’s amazing that God adopted us–no strings attached. Do you have an adoption story? Or do you know someone else with an amazing adoption story? Tell us about it for a chance to win a Todd Agnew CD Collection.
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