by Chantel Poisel, Communications Coordinator, Sidewalk Advocates for Life
Verse(s): For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 13:47
Reflection: Throughout scripture we are reminded that Jesus has made us a light in this world of darkness. In Acts 13:47 he commands us to “bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” Can you think of a much darker place in need of the light of truth, then the very place where innocent children are being killed on a daily basis?
The abortion industry likes to keep the evil of what they do veiled in darkness, because once someone’s eyes are opened to the harsh truth of what they are doing, it is nearly impossible to accept. Women-in-crisis need to hear the truth. They need to know that they are loved by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. They need to know that they don’t have to believe the lie that they have no choice. In short, they need YOU.
They need YOU to be standing on the sidewalk in front of that abortion facility, bringing them a message of hope and love, offering them loving, safe, and life-affirming alternatives. Then need YOU praying for them as they walk into that facility, as you intercede on their behalf, asking the Holy Spirit to speak to their heart.
The abortion workers need you as well. As our program advisers at And Then There Were None have so eloquently displayed on their signs, “You didn’t grow up wanting to work in an abortion clinic.” Somewhere along the line, they believed the lie that they are helping women. They need you to shine a light into that darkness and show them the truth. They need you to be there, praying for them, and to be a safe place to turn when the truth hits them.
Faith Challenge: Can’t I just pray from home? Yes, the Lord hears our prayers wherever we are. But in this passage, He alludes to the fact that we should be present at the scene where possible, in order to show His light and bring His salvation to the ends of the earth.
I want to challenge you to take that next step and increase your commitment to be present on the sidewalk. If you’ve never gone before, I challenge you to find a friend and go out for the first time. Let us obey our Lord’s command and shine the light of his love for all to see — right on the sidewalk where His love is needed the most.