23 January 2023
Day of Prayer for Legal Protection of Unborn Children
“If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” –Mark 3:24-25
Fifty years ago, the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in the case of Roe versus Wade effectively legalizing abortion across the country. The 2022 decision of the Court to overturn the 1973 decision and 1992 ruling brought needed protections to the unborn that have been ceaselessly sought by pro-life advocates since 1973. Yet, much remains to be done. The question is, how to work together to meet the needs of our society today? Although the 2022 decision changed much, there still remain several parts of the United States which try to ensure the continuation of abortion in their states. Furthermore, over 70 countries have welcomed and promoted abortion access. Prayers for the legal protection of the unborn still need to be raised in the US and around the world.
In order to make space for the graces which God pours out, we must conform our lives to the unity He desires. What might be some steps towards unity and conversion in discussions with those who still demand that abortion be permitted by law? Pro-life advocates are not unconcerned about the life and well-being of the mothers of children whose lives are put at risk of being taken. To someone demanding that the health and well-being of the mother are be addressed, we may extend an invitation to join in a visit to a crisis pregnancy center to see what services are offered and what referrals are made. Such a visit could allow for both a chance to see the true care offered from a number of fields to expectant mothers, and to discuss what a good life looks like for such young women, what kinds of institutions are aiding women in seeking such life, and how we all might support those young parents who we know personally that are in need of assistance. The invitation may or may not be accepted, but at least we can have offered a chance at unity in supporting those on whose lives new life depends.