Hylton and I met almost 15 years ago in college playing soccer. Four years later we were married on a sunny Pennsylvania morning and then moved to Tennessee to start our married life. In Tennessee we were blessed to have two boys, a bright eyed blondey, Hayden, now 7 and a floppy-haired, giggly Cohen, now 4. About two years ago, amidst big life changes we began to pray about a third child. We prayed that God would reveal to us whether or not we should have a third. It was during this time we began to feel an opening and nudge towards growing our family through adoption. As we voiced our interest in adoption to our community we found ourselves in many conversations that dealt with fear. Fear about how uncertain and difficult adoption can be. There were times that our fear almost drowned out God&'s voice. One particular day, however, as I was praying for clarity the Lord brought Romans 8:14-16 to mind. "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again, rather the Spirit you receive brought about your adoption into sonship. And by him we cry &'Abba, Father&'." As I thought on these verses I knew to obey Him we needed to pursue adopting a child. Living in the freedom of God and fearing Him above all else means we can open our home and lives up to the unknown. Not because we deserve more children or are such great parents but because we know what it is to be dearly loved. Loved by the greatest Daddy, a Daddy whose love drives out fear. With His help we too can love deeply.
