For Jonathan and Melissa, adoption was never a “second best.” They knew it was always part of God’s plan for their family. “Ever since I can remember, I have longed to share my heart and home with a child that might not otherwise have either,” Melissa reflected. Jonathan’s younger brother was adopted, so from a very young age, he personally felt the glorious impact of adoption.
When Jonathan and Melissa began researching adoption agencies, they were so impressed with how Covenant Care invests in birthparents and places great importance on finding a home for children in need, and not simply finding babies for adopting families. They also greatly appreciated the fee structure, as adoption was a leap of faith financially. “Before we dove into the adoption process, we took several months to pray to make sure we were following God’s leading, and once we felt confirmation, we were thrilled to take the plunge!” Melissa shared.
Throughout their adoption journey, Melissa and Jonathan took many deliberate, uncomfortable steps, answered tough, personal questions, and made their lives transparent. “Adoption is such an intentional act! We couldn’t just wish a baby into our home,” they said. “It was exhilarating and overwhelming to completely trust God to bring the child He had for us in His own timing.”
“We were incredibly ecstatic and humbled when Timothy’s birthmom chose us,” said Melissa. “The enormity of this tremendous gift truly overwhelmed us! We began to understand the amazing sacrifice she was making, and our hearts filled with an amazing love for her.”
Jonathan, Melissa, and their Covenant Care caseworker had the opportunity to meet Timothy’s birthmom for lunch. During that visit, she shared her dreams for her son. She wants Timothy to travel, play sports, and learn music, but more than anything, she wants him to grow up to know Jesus and serve Him. “It was such a blessing to meet this woman who shares a part of my heart,” Melissa reflected.
“To anyone who feels like God is calling them to adopt or to support adoption, we would whole-heartedly say go for it!” Melissa said. “It may not be a process with a lot of certainties, but we serve a God big enough to handle the ups and downs, and He is there every step of the journey.”