Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not – 1 John 3:1
“Have a wonderful week. And don’t forget your homework assignment of making a family tree to celebrate your roots,” the Sunday school teacher announced as she dismissed the class. “Miss Douglas, I can’t do the assignment. My mom and dad are my adopted parents,” Jerry explained solemnly. “Sweetie, as Christians, we’re all adoptees in God’s family of believers. Your family roots began when your parents opened their hearts and home to you. I say, you have a wonderful family tree to work on with your parents,” Miss Douglas said with a smile.
I’ve often pondered what it would be like to appear on the PBS show Finding Your Roots hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Though excited if presented the opportunity, I would nevertheless feel slightly uncomfortable being questioned about my immediate family, given my vague recollection. However, this is not the case as an adopted member of God’s family, where I have access to the lives of sisters and brothers whose sorrows and triumphs comfort and teach. Thus, I can celebrate my roots, then and now.
As Christians, even if our biological roots are unknown or unflattering, our relationship with Jesus Christ aligns us with new roots. And while there is no perfect family, it’s worth celebrating our adoptive status with lineages leading all the way into Heaven.