by Connor Jones
At first, I didn’t know who he was. It was the first time I had met my foster cousin, Thorin. When I first saw him, he was around five months old. I was six, so I did not understand why he had to leave his biological parents to live with my aunt and uncle. It was strange to me; I did not understand why our already large family needed another person. As I have grown up, I have realized how important this was for Thorin. The odds were against him; however, Jesus says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” This verse clearly states how God values life and loves His creation deeply. God’s love can be shown in foster care, and my aunt and uncle’s choice demonstrates it. Foster care shows God’s love by giving hope to vulnerable children so that their lives may reflect God’s will for them.
Firstly, our sinful nature can create broken families, which means some families are not able to take care of their children. This is where foster care comes into play. Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Everyone sins, and sin can lead to bad choices and instability in homes, which is where foster care steps in to help.
In addition, foster care is a way to live out the command to care for the fatherless so that they may have life. James 1:27 says, “Look after orphans and widows in their distress.” My aunt and uncle knew this calling, which is why Thorin is happily living with them, because they provided a safe and loving home. Foster care actively restores hope to children who need care. My aunt and uncle helped Thorin live that type of life, which reflects Jesus’ words in John 10:10.
In conclusion, foster care can be difficult, but for Thorin, an abundant life means stability, safety, and belonging. Foster care is a great opportunity for children to have life and have it abundantly. Moreover, people who choose to foster children are fulfilling God’s command to care for the fatherless. All of this shows the glory of God and gives abundant life to children who have the odds stacked against them.
Works Cited
“James 1:27 ESV – Religion that is pure and undefiled.” Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%201%3A27&version=ESV. Accessed 16 January 2026.
“John 10:10 ESV – The thief comes only to steal and kill.” Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2010%3A10&version=ESV. Accessed 16 January 2026.
“Romans 3:23 ESV – for all have sinned and fall short of.” Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%203%3A23&version=ESV. Accessed 16 January 2026.
Connor Jones, Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Collinsville, Illinois, is the national first place winner of the 2026 Lutherans For Life National Essay Contest in grades 6-8. Connor was a seventh grade student at Good Shepherd Lutheran School when he won this award.