Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast!

In this episode, I ask the question posed by many in the foster care system: should I adopt my foster kids? How will I know if that is what God is calling me to do? Or… what if He says no? I share statistics, information, but also share my personal experience where God told our family “no” to an adoption and I was not expecting it. As I like to say, in this calling you must “love fiercely and hold loosely.” In this calling, you have to be prepared for the unexpected, various outcomes, unknown possibilities and know God is with you every step of the way. Prayer is crucial, as well as unity in your marriage, and your support systems.

Hopefully, through this episode, you are better equipped to face those situations…

Here are a few takeaways:

• Statistics show that 400,000 children enter foster care annually.
• Adoption through foster care is often unpredictable.
• Foster parents must guard their hearts due to impermanence.
• Congruent planning can put pressure on foster parents.
• Unity in marriage is crucial for decision-making.
• Children in the home should be a top consideration.
• Not every foster child is meant to be adopted.
• Peace in decision-making is a sign of God's will.
• Listening to your body's stress signals is important.

You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast!

In this episode, I am joined by author and adoptive mama, Jessica Mathisen. In light of Foster Care Awareness Month, we discuss Jessica’s profound journey into foster care and adoption. We dive into unique family dynamics, the calling to foster care, the challenges faced by foster parents, and the importance of community support. It is crucial there is unity in marriage before stepping into this calling because the support and foundation is needed when facing the emotional, mental, and sometimes physical demands of this calling.

Our conversation also turns to emotional complexities that come with fostering or adopting such as facing infertility. Jessica shares her personal experiences and insights, providing encouragement and practical advice for those considering or currently navigating the foster care system. Jessica shares her journey through foster care and adoption, discussing the challenges and joys of welcoming children into her home. She emphasizes the importance of community support, the need for older children in care, and the reality of disruptions in foster placements. Jessica also highlights the significance of trusting God's plan and finding joy amidst the challenges. Additionally, she introduces her new children's book, 'No Matter Where I Go,' which aims to provide resources and support for families navigating foster care.

Here are a few takeaways:

• Every foster parent has a unique story and experience.
• Motherhood can be defined by love, not biology.
• Building a care team can ease the journey of fostering.
• Foster care and adoption are not solutions for infertility.
• It's important to involve children in the family mission of fostering.
• Older children in care, especially teenagers, need loving homes.
• Seeing a child in need can change perceptions and reduce fear.
• Disruption in foster care can be necessary for safety.
• Children in foster care still love their biological families.

Learn more about Jessica Mathisen: https://www.jessicanmathisen.com/

Connect with Jessica Mathisen: https://www.instagram.com/jessicanmathisen/

Her new book and excellent resource for families: click here

Christian Parenting’s Faith Centered Gift Guide: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/gifts/

You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast!

In this episode, I am joined by Scott Fuller, vice president of advancement at Murphy Harpst Children's Centers. We discuss the importance of community support in foster care, the various programs offered by Murphy Harpst, and share inspiring stories of transformation in the lives of children who have experienced trauma.

Scott emphasizes the need for churches and families to step up and support these vulnerable children, highlighting the role of mental health resources and the importance of seeking help without shame.

Here are a few takeaways:

• Community involvement is crucial for the success of foster care.
• Children who have experienced trauma can heal with the right support.
• Foster families need ongoing community support to thrive.
• There are many resources available for families in need of help.
• Churches have a responsibility to care for vulnerable children.
• Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Every individual can contribute to making a difference in a child's life.

Murphy Harpst website: https://murphyharpst.org/

“We don’t all do the same thing, but we can all do something.” -Scott Fuller.

Reach out to your church or local nonprofits to get involved. Share this podcast and spread awareness. Let’s rise up as the body of Christ and pour out the love of God to these kids!

Christian Parenting’s Faith Centered Gift Guide: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/gifts/

You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!