If there is one small glimmer of hope that has come from the state of New York’s late-term abortion bill, it’s that there is a conscience among people waking up to the evil of abortion.
But I am going to pivot from talking about that bill or even how other states are pushing forward the same type of legislation because my heart breaks for the post-abortive mothers and fathers.
What do you feel when you witness this news flooding media and social media? Are you reminded about that dreadful day? I want to know your heart, but I especially want to hear your voice.
I am not talking about those who stand by their “choice” of abortion and who have no remorse. My heart goes after those who have done the work of forgiveness before God about past abortions. Those who are walking in freedom but who share stories of regret.
I am sure it is difficult to watch both sides of the argument of abortion from your perspective. There is outrage on both sides and in the midst of it, there is your story. Perhaps, an experience that you have hidden for years and still can’t face for fear of the shame wrapped around it.
Or maybe, you have dealt with your abortion and found healing through the pain and trauma. You now walk in the freedom that can only come from the power of Jesus Christ that fills that deep sorrow with inexplicable joy.
Regardless of where you are in your healing process from abortion, today I want to encourage you.
There is a scripture that I have always read in the context of the unborn child. You often see images of this scripture in promoting the sanctity of life. But as you read it this time, let it speak to you and who you are in Christ as a post-abortive mother or father.
For you created my inmost being;
You knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
When I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
Your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
Were written in your book
Before one of them came to be.
Psalm 139:13-16
The character of God loves us in our most unworthy state. Nothing has been hidden from Him in our life story. He knew you before you were born and each day —even those painful, tragic days— were seen by Him. Yet, He loves us and wraps us in forgiveness when we seek it.
Just think of the contrast between abortion and that scripture. Abortion speaks the lie that there is no value in the life of the unborn, but God breathes into us worth and value by the very act of forming us in our mother’s womb. That scripture demonstrates the love of God shining through the darkness of our world.
I recently saw this post:
Your past abortion might have created a deep brokenness within you, but it does not define you. If you walk in freedom because you know the God of this universe has forgiven and healed you from your abortion, then live that testimony out. Speak about the lies of abortion that our world refuses to acknowledge.
Scripture has already made it clear where your identity comes from and who formed you. Be that pro-life voice that is there to love and heal those broken by abortion. Share your testimony of restoration to the post-abortive community. Only you, who have felt the physical and emotional wounds of abortion, can speak the truth to the outrage around us.
Know this, even with all the clamor and noise, your life, your story, and —your testimony— matters!
The next time you see Psalm 139: 13-14, remind yourself that it was YOU who was knit in your mother’s womb for a purpose. Share what God has done in your life—even in the regret of your past abortion. Bring healing to a world desperate to know the truth.
Your pro-life identity speaks the loudest among us because abortion is where your ministry began. Your testimony is now your pro-life identity. Be that voice!
Carol Kenzy