The Good Samaritan

The first time we traveled to Ukraine back in 2008 we had the opportunity to meet a wonderful couple, John and Charissa, who were also in Kiev finishing up the adoption of their first sweet daughter with Down syndrome. Right now they are again in Ukraine, this time adopting TWO beautiful children. This story, written by John, is such a beautiful story of adopting children with special needs that I just had to share--a modern day parable of the Good Samaritan.

Luke 10:30-35
Jesus answered by telling a story. “There was once a child living in an orphanage near Kiev. On her way into this world she was infected with a deadly disease from her mother. She left her, not caring whether her daughter lived or died. Care takers took her to the orphanage where they watched her for 5 years.

Luckily, the pastor was on his way down the same road, but when he saw the little girl, he angled across to the other side, and avoided her, reasoning one must use their God-given wisdom in these situations.

Then a local Christian man, showed up at the orphanage; he also avoided the hurting little girl saying to himself, someone will eventually care for her. I have 3 children now and they are all I can handle. I just can't take on another responsibility. I cannot afford to send 4 kids to college.

Then, a man who saw God's heart traveled down the road, on purpose, and came to her orphanage to visit the beautiful young girl. When he saw the little girl's condition, his heart went out to her with overwhelming compassion and love.

He gave her medical attention, and special medicine to help her get better. Then he lifted her into his arms and led her through the court system of her country, all along helping her feel loved, wanted, special and valued.

Then one morning he took out money and a large stack of papers and gave them to a judge, saying, ‘Take good care of her for 10 days. I will be back and take her to my home to live with me and my family for the rest of her life. Please allow her to become my beautiful daughter. We will love her. We will care for her. We will be her forever family.