Verses: “Jesus said to his disciples: ‘What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.'” — Matthew 18:12-14
Reflection: I think back to our time on the sidewalk in Tampa this past Saturday — and the victory of THREE precious babies saved!
As we sought to reach out to every client, we utilized something called a “Blessing Bag”: a bag of store-bought goodies that showed the client we cared and wanted to help. On the front of the bag was a note + coupon for a free pregnancy test and sonogram.
As we called out to each client, lovingly, across the parking lot or spoke to them through the fence, we got laser-focused on each person, letting them know that we loved them, we cared for them, and we had real help for them. The two women that we had the pleasure of walking over to the pregnancy center teared up when we told them they could do this — they were strong enough, and we’d help them figure out a plan where they could continue with their plans and be a hero for their child.
I often reflect on these verses, knowing God doesn’t want anyone to be lost. As we go to the sidewalk to be His hands and feet, we pour ourselves out in that spirit, praying and advocating for them and their children. And even if we are rejected, we have faith that He will use that love to plant seeds in their life, and these seeds may be used to save their souls later.
Let us pray: Dear Lord, Thank you for your abundant love, and for your grace and mercy!
We pray for all the clients who did choose life this past week …and we lift up to you those who didn’t. We pray that you would help them to be healed and come to know you and the abundant life you offer them. We pray they come to see the amazing gift of life you offer through your son, Jesus Christ.
Thank you for each person who has answered your call to be a Sidewalk Advocate, prayer partner or financial supporter of this ministry — indeed, the great army of light you are raising up to end abortion!
We have nothing without you, Lord, and as we count our blessings and all that you have done for us, through us, and with those around us, we give our heartfelt thanks and praise to you. Amen.
