Today, two different couples I know have become parents. They both welcomed brand new sons to their families. One couple had their baby at a hospital earlier today, and the other couple will be bringing home their adopted son, today. Two different couples, two different little boys, and two different ways of creating a family.
It seems very different – giving birth to a baby versus adopting a baby. One mother has carried a baby inside of her for forty weeks, undergoing physical discomfort and hormonal mood swings. The other mother has been spared those things, but she has had paperwork, case worker visits, background checks, as well as thousands of dollars spent before she is even assured of being given a child.
There are some similarities, however. Both boys have been greatly anticipated. Both boys have been prayed for, before either parent saw them. Both boys will be going to homes where they will be loved, cared for, and nurtured. Both babies will be raised with the concept that there is One who is greater than all else. Both boys will probably not let their parents sleep very much, tonight. They will both go through several diaper changes and feedings.
These boys will probably never meet, since the couples don’t know each other. But, both boys were subject of prayers of thanksgiving within just a few hours. Both boys will be raised in Christian homes, being trained up in the way they should go. May they be a joy to their parents, and may their parents rest well during their few hours of sleep.
