Friday, January 8, 2010

Fear and Foster Care

I just spoke with the founder of the adoption agency with which I am licensed. I explained to her that due to the nature of our *lives*, we are only able to provide foster care to children aged 3-5. We are actually licensed for care up to age 17. I have this enormous measure of guilt because I feel like I am letting everyone down. I realize that my age constraints limit my "sphere" drastically, as there are many more older children in foster care than younger and I ?imagine? that I can hear the disappointment in her voice as I explain our situation. Not only do I really respect this lady and wish for her approval (revealing how shallow I am!) but more importantly I feel horrible for the older children that don't have homes. But really-- can I handle an older child *practically* on my own? Honestly, my fear is that I can't even handle a preschooler! Hope beckons me to step out, while fear arrests my foot in mid-air. Is there any other choice but to jump and pray I land on both feet?

3 comments:

Katheryn said...

Pray first, then follow the Lord's leading to jump and He will land you on your two feet. It is a huge responsibility, if you have any apprehensions of the care that you would be able to provide for foster children, then don't do it. I have too many families in my circle that are foster care families and adoptive families. It is a lot of work with much baggage and joy attached. I don't mean to sound negative, but it is life changing. God will lead and with His leading there will be no apprehension, no fear, just blessing.

On another note, it was awesome to see you guys last night. As far as the "baby bump", the only bump I saw was where it needed to be. Don't be so hard on yourself, enjoy the two sweet blessings the Lord has given you, they are growing up so fast. Have a great night. See you soon.

Davene said...

What you wrote echoes what I've been thinking recently--not that we are in the situation you are--but the idea of there being such great needs, but am I ready/able to fill them? It's always a leap of faith, but am I supposed to take this particular leap?

Tonight I'm praying for clear direction for you as you follow God's plan...

Josiah and Anna said...

Hi there! I have been thinking about you this week and wondering how you are doing? Have you made any decisions as far as the foster care is concerning? I am praying for you! God bless you! ~Anna