The journey of fostering is not just about opening your home; it’s about opening your heart to God’s mission, to love as He loves, in the messy, challenging, and joyous call of caring for His little ones. “Foster the Family” by Jamie Finn is a treasure trove of Gospel hope, a guide written with a heart deeply anchored in Christ, for those of us walking the path of foster care.

About The Book

Jamie artfully shares the raw, unvarnished truths of fostering—its hills and valleys, its trials, and its profound blessings. Through her narrative, she casts a Gospel light on every hurdle and joy, reminding us that this journey is far from a call to comfort, but rather an invitation to live missionally, with Jesus by our side, promising never to leave us nor forsake us.

This book is a heartfelt reminder of the sanctity of life, the importance of family and the powerful, radical love of Christ—a love we are called to emulate, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard. Jamie doesn’t shy away from the gritty realities of foster care, including dealing with the systems that seem so daunting at times, and the very real emotions of loving children in the midst of their own storms. Yet, she encourages us to see beyond our fears and frustrations, to the sovereignty of God, entrusting our families and our foster children into His capable hands, not the imperfect hands of earthly systems.

Through personal stories and hard-earned lessons, Jamie offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging the sin and brokenness in the world, yet steering us towards loving deeply and fiercely— even those who may seem unlovable by worldly standards. This means loving birth parents who are struggling, and systems that seem unfair, with the love of Christ. It’s a call to guard our hearts, yet remain open to the deep, sacrificial love that fosters true healing and hope.

“Foster the Family” doesn’t just educate; it equips and inspires. It’s rich with biblical wisdom and encouragement for those in the trenches of foster care, or those considering stepping into these waters. Jamie Finn extends a hand, guiding us to see the beauty and hope in this calling, even amidst the struggles.

So, to my dear sisters considering this journey, to those who wish to offer support, and to you who are in the midst of fostering, this book is a source of deep encouragement. It’s a reminder that in foster care, as in all things, we are called to reflect Jesus’ love, to serve as His hands and feet to the families He loves so dearly. Let “Foster the Family” be a tool in your journey, encouraging you to grow in your faith and live out the missional call with grace, love, and hope.

A QUOTE AND A QUESTION

“Yes, kids are worth it. Families are worth it. But do you want to know why foster care is worth it? Because it’s gospel work. And living for Jesus is always worth it.”

(Page 39)

• ‘Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.’ In what ways do you desire to live out James 1:27? How is foster care an example of “pure religion” or “gospel work”?