Mary Beth Chapman never imagined that adoption would become such a central part of her family's life. Married to musician Steven Curtis Chapman, she was content raising their three biological children. But everything changed when their daughter Emily went on a mission trip to Haiti. Moved by the plight of orphans, Emily's experience planted a seed in the Chapman family.
God's Calling Through Adoption
With prayer and reflection, Mary Beth and Steven felt a calling to adopt. In 2000, they welcomed Shaohannah Hope into their family from China. Mary Beth recalled, "The minute Shaoey was placed in my arms, I finally understood what God did for me. He adopted me too." This profound realization transformed her understanding of her own relationship with God.
In 2003, the Chapmans founded Show Hope, an organization dedicated to helping other families overcome financial barriers to adoption. Their family continued to grow with the adoptions of daughters Stevey Joy and Maria Sue. "On the plane ride home with Shaoey, God imprinted on my heart that through Steven's platform and my loud mouth, He could move the hearts of His people," Mary Beth reflected.
Faith Through Unimaginable Tragedy
Tragedy struck in 2008 when their youngest daughter, Maria Sue, was accidentally killed. In the face of unimaginable grief, Mary Beth leaned heavily on her faith. She wrote in "Choosing to See," "I'm moving slowly but surely with my eyes on Jesus." This period tested her faith, yet Mary Beth found comfort in knowing she was seen by God, even when she felt completely broken.
God's Presence During Grief
Through this journey, Mary Beth learned that trusting God doesn't mean understanding everything, but believing in His goodness. The Chapmans established Maria's Big House of Hope in China to honor Maria's memory, providing care for orphans with medical needs.
Mary Beth's faith journey continues to inspire many as she shares her story of adoption, loss, and hope through writing and speaking. "Being SEEn, I believe, gives us the courage to do that. Because when you know the God of the universe sees you—really sees you—you don't have to pretend anymore," she shares. Her story is a testament to God's grace and the power of taking one more step in faith.
