I Want a Spotlight, Not a Lamp

Psalm 119 is a long poem about God's Word. The 105th verse of this Psalm says that God's Word is a "lamp unto my feet." Having a lamp to light our way in the dark is helpful. However, oil burning lamps of the psalmist's day gave off just enough ambient light to show you the next step. They did not give enough light to show you the next mile of path and all its opportunities, obstacles or barriers.

If it were up to me, I would have wanted God to make His word a 30 million candle power spotlight, mounted ten feet over my head and pointed down the path He wants me to take. Oh, and maybe a few floodlights pointed to the left and right so that I can see what is along each side of the trail as well. I would also add radar with a heads-up display warning me of problems ahead and opportunities to not miss. I put these ideas into the suggestion box of heaven, but have not seen any changes yet. I'll let you know if I do.

In the meantime, our family is facing decisions that would sure be a lot easier if we could see further down the path right now. We know God is calling us to return to New Orleans for seminary. We also know God is calling us to adopt a child. However, the timing is interesting and seems to conflict. If we start the adoption process here, at least through DSS, then we will have to most likely postpone going back to New Orleans until next year. Of course, if our house does not sell this year, then we will be waiting to go back anyway. I am o.k. with putting seminary off for another year for the sake of a child, but I want to be sure we are being faithful to our calling. It feels like we are trying to walk two separate paths and hoping they will soon merge into one. This is where a spotlight instead of a lamp would be helpful.

But the point is for us to take the next step. Maybe we will be adopting and then moving. Maybe we will be moving and then adopting in Louisiana. Maybe God will orchestrate both to happen this year. But we have to take the next step. So we are prayerfully doing so. Adoption is an amazing opportunity and gift. I submit that if you are a believer in Christ, then adoption is something we cannot ignore. It does not mean you have to adopt a child yourself, but it means we are to take care of those who cannot care for themselves. We get to reflect the Gospel in this way as we could not save ourselves, but Christ had to save us. We know that these children are made in the image of God and therefore are valuable. For more on why we must do this, check out the book Adopted for Life by Russell D. Moore and the website reflections of the Father. They offer perspective and resources. Let us all pray for wisdom and courage to do what God has called us to do and be faithful in whatever capacity He determines.

By the way, Jacob is beside himself with anticipation of having another brother(s) or sister(s). He is praying hard!