If I’m totally honest, I often feel like the Christian culture in America can be a bit shallow.  Sure, people care about what God wants, but I think most of our days get caught up in all the things we have to manage, and the things we wish we had.

Deciding to pay for the coffee of the person behind you in the drive-thru lane is nice, and I’m not discouraging it, but don’t you think God also has bigger plans for those of us who want to share His love with the world?  And what would happen if we not only asked Him, but took the time to listen to His voice and began to diligently follow His will for our lives?  I admit, when I watch those in whom God seems to be working very visibly, I’m not always sure I want the burden.  Yet it’s incredibly beautiful!

The Carson family is a perfect example.  Their daughter, Karis, is in my daughter’s 2^nd grade class, and they have seven children in all.  SEVEN!  I often marvel when I sit behind their humongous conversion van in the pickup lane at school and wonder how that mom does it.  I mean, how do you cart around seven children and stay on top of everything?  High school, middle school, grade school, preschool, and (I think) one still at home with mom.  Talk about a crazy and full life! 

Yet when Shelley Carson heard that her best friend’s adoption of a pre-schooler from China was falling through due to the discovery of fatal heart defect in the little girl, she and her husband, Kevin, knew they couldn’t stand by and do nothing.  Especially when they felt God tugging at their hearts to pray and seek His will.  And you know what?  They’re going to adopt that little girl!  They’re going to teach her about Jesus, love her, seek the best medical care, and give her a home for as long as God grants her life.  Even though it would be super-easy to make the excuse that they’re already too busy and have enough responsibilities, they’re listening to God and taking a leap of faith.  THIS is the sort of example I’m drawn to.  THIS is the sort of faith Americans should aspire to.  Wow.

Click here to check out the Carson’s story.  It’s a quick read that’s really inspiring, and I hope it’ll give you the same ‘faith-boost’ it has given me… it may even inspire you to click the ‘donate’ button and be a part of this neat story!