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In The Drop Box, we see the physical toll exacted on Pastor Lee Jong-rak as he loves and serves the vulnerable children in his midst. Repeatedly, he is awoken in the middle of the night to answer the chime of his "baby box." Morning, noon and night, there are mouths to feed and medications to administer?but also hugs and kisses to give. That is why an Australian TV reporter once described Pastor Lees home as "a noisy and chaotic place ... filled with love."

You dont need to be in Pastor Lees shoes to know that parenting is hard. Even in the best of circumstances, kids wear us out! But for adoptive families, when you combine the daily routine of meals, school, activities and home life with the challenges of kids who havent previously known the love, stability and structure of a family, it can be a recipe for disaster.

Adoptive families often require a complete change of schedule, routine and parenting strategies in order to effectively meet the needs of their kids. Providing a "forever home" is incredibly important, but it doesnt mean that kids immediately adjust to their new environment or that life moves forward without a hitch. Many families struggle under the weight of their kids unique needs.

Respite care, or short-term childcare, is an opportunity to provide a break for adoptive families. It may be as short as an afternoon for errands, dinner or a massage, or as long as a weekend for a marriage getaway. As one pastor and adoptive father in Colorado puts it, "You cant do it without a community that comes alongside you and gives you breaks here and there." Providing these regular times of relief allows parents a chance to catch their breath and return refreshed, ready to meet the needs of their kids.

Are you in a position to offer short-term care to an adoptive family? Start slowly and get to know them?learn their routine and make time to invest in them.

And remember, you can be a blessing to families outside your circle of influence as well. A contribution to the Global Orphan Care Fund is a concrete way to join the cause of adoption and orphan care both internationally and domestically.