Every Child Made in God’s Image: Why This Changes Everything in Adoption

Most conversations about transracial and transcultural adoption miss one vital piece: the heart of every child is made in God’s image—and that’s where the true starting point lies. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about whether to adopt across cultures or felt overwhelmed by the complexity of identity and ethnicity, this episode is for you.

Join host Rick Morton as he tackles the difficult, often polarizing issues surrounding international adoption, family support, family dynamics, blending personal stories, biblical truth, and expert insights. Chelsea Sobolik shares her journey growing up being adopted internationally, adopting from India herself, and her commitment to seeing every child’s worth through God’s eyes. Herbie Newell reflects on the importance of loving children well amid the brokenness of our world, emphasizing that love does not mean acceptance at the expense of truth, but rather a willingness to grow, learn, and serve with humility.

You’ll discover practical wisdom on preparing your heart and home for trans cultural adoption, the danger of elevating cultural differences above biblical unity, and how to foster a love that respects every child’s dignity. We break down the importance of understanding trauma-informed care, embracing diversity as a reflection of God’s creative intent, and creating a safe, loving environment where children can thrive—including those who will never be adopted but are deeply loved by the Father.

This episode matters because overlooking the complexity risks parenting out of fear or cultural distortion, rather than biblical truth. The opportunity is vast—families can reflect Christ’s love more fully when they approach adoption with humility, wisdom, and gospel-centered love. For Christian parents, mentors, or anyone caring for children, this conversation is an essential guide to navigating the tensions without losing sight of God’s sovereignty and grace.

Whether you’re considering adoption or simply want to better love children from every tribe and tongue, this episode offers encouragement, challenge, and hope. Pull up a seat at the table—you’ll leave with your heart and mind better equipped to love like Jesus.

[00:00:07] – Welcome & Introduction to Transcultural Adoption
[00:01:45] – Chelsea’s Story: Adopted from Romania, Now Adopting from India
[00:04:10] – International Adoption at an All-Time Low: What Changed
[00:06:30] – Every Child Made in God’s Image: The Biblical Starting Point
[00:09:15] – Have Christians Elevated Race & Culture Too Much?
[00:12:00] – The Pendulum Has Swung Too Far: Finding the Truth in the Middle
[00:14:30] – Trauma-Informed Care: What Parents Didn’t Have 30 Years Ago
[00:17:45] – Raising Transcultural Kids: Be Approachable, Not Just Available
[00:21:00] – Love Does Not Equal Acceptance: Parenting Through Hard Conversations
[00:25:30] – Chelsea: Being a Christian Supersedes Every Other Part of My Story
[00:30:15] – Rick’s Daughter & the Moon Landing: A Transcultural Moment
[00:33:45] – Parenting With the Holy Spirit: Praying for Wisdom Daily
[00:36:00] – Herby’s Challenge: Prepare, Stay Humble, Keep Learning