by Julia Pritchett, Sidewalk Counselor & SAFL Program Advisor
Verse(s): “For by strategy war is waged, and victory depends on many counselors.” — Proverbs 24:6
Reflection: A friend recently called me up to tell me about an interesting experience she had while driving past a courthouse. She described the way people were holding signs outside the courthouse promoting the candidate they wanted others to vote for. She said they were smiling, waving, and showing happiness. Then, she said, “What if people outside of abortion facilities were that happy?”
Wow! What a wake-up call this is for most of us. From personal experience, I can attest to how much more of an impact joy has than sorrow. Yes, it is easy to be overcome by sorrow for what is happening at abortion facilities. We can be somber out of respect for the gravity of the situation. However, radiating joy is what will attract abortion-vulnerable people to us. This is our strategy for winning the war!
Abortion is often a desperate act. It is usually surrounded by negative emotions and tears. That is why our strategy needs to be the direct opposite: joy, love, peace, and hope.
As the verse also denotes, it takes many counselors to claim victory. It will take all of us being joyful and loving to win this war.
Call to Action: Make an effort to smile at each person you see walking into an abortion facility the next time you sidewalk help. Say a kind word to abortion facility workers when they come into work. Wave at passing traffic. Muster energy to enthusiastically greet other helpers who show up to help with you or who show up to relieve you for the day; we need each other. Be a joyful, welcoming presence!