“I could never foster, I would get too attached,” is a common response I hear when someone hears my husband and I are foster parents. While fostering is not for everyone, I believe as Christians we are all called to play some part in the foster care crisis.

Before understanding the role you could play, it is important to understand God’s heart for the vulnerable.

Early on in Scripture, we learn about the Father’s heart for the widows and fatherless.

"Learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphans, plead for the widow." – Isaiah 1:17

Once we understand the heart of God and the commands he has given to care for the fatherless and vulnerable, we are able to fully step in and respond.

"A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families ..." – Psalm 68:5-6a

May we pray without ceasing for whole, healed and restored families in whatever way that might look. May we rally around vulnerable people with resources, time and efforts as we walk alongside them. May we say yes to having the Lord break our hearts for what breaks his, and truly mean it!
 
As foster care awareness month takes place, my hope is for every believer to respond to the call to support foster care in some capacity, because it is the Father’s heart. Whether it's providing transportation for weekly family visits, bringing a warm meal or offering to babysit, there are hundreds of ways to play a part when it comes to foster care.

Now that we understand what God has commanded us to do, how will you choose to respond?

Written by Caitlyn Baten, church engagement officer for Buckner International.

Learn more about National Foster Care Month.