by Kathy Forck, SAFL Program Advisor & SAFL-Columbia, MO Program Director
Verse(s): “For we do not preach ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for the sake of Jesus. For God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of Jesus Christ. But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us.” — 2 Corinthians 4: 5-7
Reflection: As I read these verses, my heart is filled with what really happens on the sidewalk.
We know not these women who are put into our lives by the Lord, but we have such a compassionate yearning to serve them — to serve them even as a slave as we look upon them with love as the light shines upon them. Not our light, but the light of Jesus Christ. For it is His light, His words, His actions, His love which draws them close to us and ultimately close to Him. This light is a treasure and this treasure we hold in our hearts.
Our Lord is the one who does all things, and as we do this gentle work, we realize every day a little more deeply that He is humbling us so that our first thoughts are always to give the honor and glory to Him — He who is within us, He who shines the light on the darkness and brings out women who feel they have no choice.
With amazement I watch the power of the Lord draw them out to sidewalk advocates and ultimately to those who would also pour out themselves as slaves–the pregnancy resource center workers.
Call to Action: I pray that those reading this and who have been vacillating with getting involved even more deeply, will do so.
I pray that Sidewalk Advocates will duplicate themselves many fold and bring others to the work that is so fulfilling. Sometimes just the words, “You would make a good Sidewalk Advocate!” will be all that it takes.
Let us share this gift with those who are waiting to be invited. Let us include others in this ministry which shines the light on the darkness. Let us not be afraid to ASK.