Book Review: Orphan Justice

Orphan Justice: 

How to care for orphans beyond adopting.

 by Johnny Carr

My husband and I have been praying about how adoption could play a part in our family for a long time. As of right now, we haven't felt like we are in a position to pursue the adoption of a child. This decision has not come lightly or easily. So in this season of waiting, we have been looking around for ways in which we can still play a part in the care of orphans. 

The desire to do something to aid in the plight of the orphan comes from the Bible.  James 1:27 says "Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you."  

God wants us to be concerned and to have compassion for the orphan. What do you think of when you think of orphans?
Well, often you think of children who are living in an orphanage or in the foster system because they don't have parents who are able to care for them. If you believe that all children deserve a family then you also think about adoption.
But here is another truth.  Even though God calls all of us to care for orphans, he doesn't call all of us to adopt.  
So if adoption isn't an option either for the orphan or for your family, what can you do to help?
That's where this book comes in.
Johnny Carr speaks as an adoptive father who is passionate about caring for orphans but see's that adoption isn't the only option, and sometimes not even the best option.
He sees the big picture of the plight orphans around the world are facing.  He gives Biblical and practical advice for ways that you can get involved and make a difference.

Some of the topics that Carr tackles are:

orphans and human trafficking, AIDS, orphanages,

poverty, foster care, racism,

abortion, the Church, and spiritual warfare.

He isn't afraid to talk truth about the hard things.  His writing is relevant and challenging.  

I appreciate that at the end of each chapter Johnny offers practical ideas about how you can get involved. 

Things as simple as raising awareness for adoption in your local church to starting a backpack food ministry in your local schools or  supporting a ministry that is working to end Human trafficking.  You may decide to become a foster parent, or simply support a family who is fostering or adopting.  You might begin by volunteering at a local clinic, by supporting refugee care or by praying. There are many important options that will help to change the future for at least one needy child.

Maybe you will decide that adoption is for your family. 

That is wonderful! 

But if you don't believe that you are able and called to adopt, there is still so much that can be done.

"Adoption is not for everyone, but caring for orphans is for everyone."

I plan on sharing my copy of this book with everyone I can.  Although you may want to get your own because mine is full of highlighted passages! 

I truly believe that it is a book that every Christian should read.  I also believe that orphan care is a cause that everyone should and can get behind. 

I am excited for our family as we pray about how we should move forward in orphan care.

What about you? 

What can you do?