I just did a devotion on Jehosheba, the aunt who hid the young Joash who was next in line for the throne so he would not be killed by the wicked Athaliah (2 Kings 11: 2-3). The devotion pointed out that not only did Jehosheba have an incredible act of courage when she help Joash escape the initial killing spree by Athaliah, she went on to hide this small child for 6 more years until he was able to be crowned king. Those 6 years had to be filled with much stress and difficulty trying to keep the boy secret and safe. After those 6 years though, she was able to see God’s plan when young Joash was crowned king.
This made me think about the fact that just because something is a lot of hard work doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do it. I think sometimes I like to make my walk of faith be about the things that come easy to me like playing piano in church or teaching the young kiddos. Those are good things to do, but they can’t be the only things I should do in the name of the Lord. God also calls us sometimes to do things for Him that require much sacrifice and hardship.
Adopting a second child with Down syndrome is not going to make our lives easier or more relaxed. I know that. But God really showed us that shouldn’t be our reason (or excuse) to not adopt Ryan.
However, what many people do not realize about individuals with Down syndrome is that there are so many blessings in the midst of the hard work. When our son Jonah smiles at me, it does something to my heart that I can’t explain. His love and gusto for life (although sometimes out of control, hee,hee) motivates me to remember to live my life to the fullest and not let inhibitions or worries about what others will think of me stop me. For this 2nd adoption, I can’t wait to experience the joy God has in store for us with the blessing of little Ryan to our family.
We are not taking the easy path by adopting a 2nd child with Down syndrome. But we are taking the right path. Easy doesn’t mean right. Hard doesn’t mean wrong.
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