Book review: "Orphan Justice"

Every since I returned from Africa I have been struggling to find my place after all I saw and experienced.  "Orphan Justice: How to Care for Orphans Beyond Adopting" by Johnny Carr was a great book to read.  It chronicles so many of my thoughts.

The book was not afraid to ask the hard questions.  It covered topics from adoption ethics to HIV to human trafficking to abortion.  My favorite part of this was the section called "What you can do" at the end of the chapters.  After asking the hard questions, the chapter ends with practical ideas on how to get involved.  It gives feasible ideas in many different capacities from things anyone can do to things MANY can do, to things on a bit bigger scale that a FEW could do.  This was really great, because it leaves the reader an outlet to move into action.  Often times we are moved to compassion when we need to be moved to action.  I love that this book not only addresses the issues but introduces the reader to doorways of opportunity to be involved.

This book also uses scripture as an authority and a mandate to care for the orphan.  I love this quote from the book:

"Scripture doesn't spell out a detailed strategy for oprhan care, but God does speak directly to the role of His people.  In fact, God promises judgement on those who do not take care of the weak and needy: "Cursed is anyone who denies justice to foreigners, orphans, or widows" (Duet. 27:19 NLT) 

To our God, taking care of orphans isn't just a "great idea."  It's critical.  Why?  Because every man, woman boy, and girl-- including orphaned and vulnerable children--has been created in God's image and is precious to Him.  In Scripture, God describes Himself time and again as the helper of orphans."

This book stands well with the familiar quote in adoption circles:

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

If you are looking for feasible ways to care for orphans this book is for you.  If you are wanting to fight the injustice, this book gives you several ideas in several different areas on how to get started.  If you are curious about adoption and foster care, pick this book up and spend some time in prayer asking God where your role lies.  If your a church leader, pick this book up and let it help open your eyes to the mandate scripture outlines concerning being a voice for the voiceless.

This is not just a book just for those who have adopted or are interested in adopting.  This book is for everyone who believes in the gospel message.  This book makes it clear that all Christians are called to care for orphans.  It is so important for each of us to search our hearts and find out in what capacity God wants to use us.

Make sure you put this one on your summer reading list and I pray you emerge from its pages ready to fight the American noise.

"No matter who you are you’ve got a voice
Why don’t you use it?"