Lisa Anderson | Director of Young Adults

Five years ago today, my mom went to be with Jesus. My dad (no thanks to cancer) preceded her by 17 years. One of the hardest things for me to accept in reconciling myself to their earthly deaths has been my sense of being “orphaned.” I no longer have a parent around to make memories with. Or to reminisce with. Or to pray for me, root for me, or remind me of my place in my family, past and present. These are sadnesses I’ve had to grieve.

I’m grateful for my siblings, but since many of them live far away, I’m also grateful for the body of Christ — a family that is eternal and God-ordained. When I read Jesus’ words in Matthew 12:46-50, I sometimes feel they were written just for me: “... Who is my mother, and who are my brothers? ... Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

Like me, you may be an earthly orphan. Or maybe your biological parents are still around but they are distant, or your relationship with them is strained. Take heart; God knows, and has provided a family in His Church for you to lean into, love, and be loved by in return. Start praying about the relationships you should invest in. Then look around. There just may be a brother or sister in your midst.