Because of our experience over the past 6 years now with foster care, and our naivety going into it, I often cringe when I hear new foster parents speak harshly against bio parents, or ask for prayers in hopes of adoption. But the Lord gently reminds me that I too, was there and I am so grateful that He has changed my perspective and aligned my heart with His. My good friend, who happens to be very frank, said to me so long ago, God’s first plan is never adoption. I remember during that season, I was praying and asking for prayers that we would be able to adopt our foster son, and I was offended. But more than an offense it was a conviction, an opportunity to check my heart, and when I did I realized it was true. God doesn’t create a child to be tore from his/her birth parents for whatever circumstances, just so another family can adopt them, that isn’t His original design. Will He use it? Of course. It doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pursue it through the right avenues, or celebrate it when it happens, but God’s heart is truly for restoration when and if possible.
All that to be said because just this week we are faced with reunification again. Our current foster son, whom we’ve had since November of 2018, will be reunified mid-April. There have been a range of emotions in our home since we’ve gotten the news.
Please keep us all in prayer during this transition. Although it is difficult for all, I do believe it is the next step that needs to take place. There are two options right now - to attempt reunification even if our personal standards of improvement haven't been met or to attempt TPR (termination of rights) where there is simply not enough evidence that rights should permanently be terminated. He cannot stay a foster child forever, so reunification does need to be tried in order to move forward.
It is difficult and bittersweet and we are all feeling all the emotions as the time draws near. But, I do feel peace in knowing it's the right time. And just as I entrust my own children, I entrust our foster son to the Lord as well, because he is ultimately His. And I trust that He will take care of him, protect him and provide for him and his mother. His time with us has not been in vain, there are deep spiritual truths that have been rooted and we believe and declare that He will be a mighty warrior for the Lord in his family and beyond.
By the grace of God we have cultivated a great relationship with his mother despite challenges and know that she will call on us in time of need. It will not be the end of our relationship, as she said yesterday, she considers us family. This story is not finished. We continually surrender to His plan, not ours. “And I’m sure of this, that he who began a good work in him
will bring it to completion at the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6
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