THE GIFT OF ADOPTING CHILDREN

Before marrying my wife, I initiated an unconventional conversation with her (then my fiancee).

What if we marry and children never come?

She stared at me, shocked. A thousand thoughts must have raced through her mind. As an African; religious  or not marriage is often followed by the expectation of children’s laughter.  

My worldview is unconventional, even rebellious. I see life through the lens of someone who’d rather live in harmony with nature protecting wildlife, planting forests, and embracing simplicity. Yet, as we anchored our relationship in faith, we acknowledged a truth from Scripture. Some are born blind(John 9:1).  

Yes, we trust God’s promises for fruitfulness. But what if His plan involves waiting 33 years, like the blind man healed by Jesus? What if the miracle tarries or never arrives in the form we expect? I know few couples that are married for over 15 years, still waiting for children.  

If you’ve waited years for a child, consider adoption. Countless children yearn for loving homes. Go through proper legal channels government or faith based orphanages and open your heart. I’ve seen women deteriorate mentally and physically from the agony of waiting. Yet childlessness doesn’t diminish God’s power in your life.  

Catholic priests and nuns, for instance, live childless lives yet perform miracles through service. Adoption itself is a sacred act. It may even unlock unexpected blessings including, for some, the eventual gift of biological parenthood.  

If finances allow, explore ethical medical options if pregnancy is feasible. But don’t let despair or predatory “prophets” exploit your pain. Instead, channel your faith into action. A child somewhere needs your love, and that love is its own miracle.  

To those waiting. Your faith isn’t measured by passive hope but by courageous steps forward. Whether through adoption, fostering, or redefining purpose, your life can overflow with meaning.  

And to those who’ve found peace in this journey whether through a child’s laughter or a life poured into others. Kindly remember those waiting for the gift of children in your prayers. 

Until the moment when will shall dance in white Greater Grace.

Oyugbo Osagie Jonah