Hi from Sherry Kyle, writing from my laptop in central California. I wanted to share something today that is near and dear to my heart—and no, it isn’t specifically about writing, but I think this post pertains to all of us as Christian writers.  

Jesus said, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit . . .” John 15:16a

I love the Youtube video clip about a little fourth-grade girl about to go down a ski jump for the very first time. You can watch it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebtGRvP3ILg

I can relate to some of the things she says to herself when I try something scary:

“I’ll be fine.”

“Here goes something, I guess.”

“You can do this.”

“I got it.”

“Here I . . . go!”

Thirteen years ago, my husband and I decided to pursue adoption. Some of our friends and family members didn’t understand our decision and weren’t shy to question us. Why would we adopt when we already had three children, ages 2, 4, and 6?

What can I say? Since the age of ten, God impressed upon my heart the need to provide a home for a child who doesn’t have one. James 1:27 says, “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.”

Doug and I didn’t take this decision lightly. In fact, our conversations sounded like we were about to go down a ski jump for the very fist time. We prayed together every night for the baby girl who would enter our home, asking God if we were making the right decision. The bottom line was that we felt it was important to obey the call God had for our family. I’m so thankful we listened. It hasn’t always been an easy journey, but so worth it.

Following Jesus is like that too. When we take the leap of faith and jump in with both feet, God will bless us beyond measure. Life is an adventure when we follow Him. After all, He loves us and accepts us for who we are.

And like the little girl in the video clip, we’ll say, “Just the suspense at the top freaks you out. Whoo HOOO!”

What leap of faith have you taken or are you taking in your life now?