“Our once great western Christian civilization is dying. If this matters to followers of Jesus Christ, then we must set aside our denominational differences and work together to strengthen the things that remain and reclaim what has been lost. Evangelicals and Catholics must stand together to re-establish that former Christian culture and moral consensus. We have the numbers and the organization but the question is this: Do we have the will to win this present spiritual battle for Jesus Christ against secularism? Will we prayerfully and cooperatively work toward a new Christian spiritual revival ― or will we choose to hunker down in our churches and denominationalisms and watch everything sink into the spiritual and moral abyss of a New Dark Age?” - Mark Davis Pickup

Friday, August 3, 2018

CHRISTIANITY IS PRO-LIFE

This past February, The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' pro-Life blog "Life Issues Forum: How To Build A Culture of Life" had a revealing quote for devout Christians (not just Catholics):

"When someone is facing great trials, we need to meet them where they are, walk with them on their journey, intercede for them, and be open to sharing Christ's love however he directs."

"When a woman becomes pregnant, and her boyfriend threatens to leave if she continues the pregnancy, we need to lovingly walk with her. When parents of young children need a break, we need to consider how we can help and act on it. When family members or friends become seriously ill, we need to assure them that God still offers them something in this life, and they still have purpose. We need to consistently be with them every step of the way."

"Our lives are often changed by the witness of others; so too, others' lives may be changed by our witness and authentic friendship with them. Sometimes our actions speak for themselves; other times, words are needed. Whatever the situation, Jesus knows how to speak to each person's heart; we simply need to follow where He leads."


"Let us go, therefore, and not be afraid. God is always with us."[1]

Christianity is pro-Life. Jesus said: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."[2]  Christ did not say he came to give death. That is what the thief of life does: He steals and crushes human potential; he kills and destroys. It is the abortionist, the doctor who euthanizes the sick and disabled who do Satan's bidding. 

Followers of Christ are called to be witnesses for the sanctity of all human life. Life is so sacred that Christ willingly came and died precisely because God loves us so much. He wants us to be with Him forever.[3]  It is through Christians' prayerful and faithful actions and responses to human circumstances that they give their most effective and powerful witness for that love. Yes, we are called to reflect Christ's love and salvation to a lost and hurting world. Every human life has meaning regardless of age or stage. Every human being is worthy of love, care, protection and nurture.

MDP
_____________

[1] Life Issues Form: How To Build A Culture Of Life, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 23 February 2018. http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/life-issues-forum/life-issues-forum-how-to-build-a-culture-of-life.cfm
[2] John 10.10.
[3] John 3.16.

No comments: