Someone, somewhere in our world today aborted a child...our hearts break; the heart of God breaks more. For this was not a piece of tissue; this was a child. We grieve at the high abortion rate in our land; God grieves at the high cost of abortion to a hurting girl. For there will be hurt, both now and later. The trauma and pain has devastated many a young woman.
But while we grieve the loss of a precious child, we rest in the comfort that he is with the Lord. The devotional this week is dedicated to the memory of those aborted children, who will never see the light of day, never know the touch of a mother's hand. There will be no preschool, no Little League, no parties--no scraped knees, no untied shoes, no messy rooms. For they are at peace--with Jesus. Let's join Him at the Well and talk about it!
A Helping Word...or Two!
Safe in His Arms!
From the moment of conception to the moment of death, this child's developing life is one of danger. A decision must be made--life or death. The pregnant girl may waver back and forth until the abortion is finally performed. And then the surgical instruments of evil men perform the dastardly deed. The actual moment of death is brutal, we are told. But the very moment a child's beating heart stops, that child is safe in the arms of Jesus. No more to encounter danger, pain or harm. Peace at last where nothing or no one can harm.
Accepted in His Fold!
From the moment of conception to the moment of death, this child's developing life has faced rejection. His very existence has caused trauma in a family, trauma in a young girl, and NO trauma in the eyes of the abortionist, who boldly declares, "This isn't a baby; this is merely unwanted TISSUE." The final rejection comes at the moment of death. But the very moment a child's beating heart stops, that child is accepted in the fold of the Great Shepherd. Jesus enfolds that little lamb in His arms. No more to face rejection and pain. Peace at last where he will never be rejected again.
Loved in His Care!
From the moment of conception to the moment of death, this child has not been loved. Oh, perhaps a passing sentimental love, but not a love strong and courageous enough to carry and bear a child, and at whatever cost, to bring a life into the world. The maternal instinct is somehow denied, and the child is nameless, faceless, soundless--no emotional connection, just an unfortunate mistake. The final act of non-love is death, violent death. But the very moment a child's beating heart stops, that child is welcomed by a heavenly host of angels, witnesses, and the Son of God Himself. Jesus died for little children, and His loving heart must break as one by one, these little unborn ones enter His Kingdom. Oh the love of a Savior, who cradles these children in His tender care. Peace at last where they will never be unloved again.
Hearts are broken today, for various reasons. Perhaps you have a family member or friend who has had an abortion; perhaps you, in an immature, hasty, unknowledgeable decision, aborted a child yourself. Who knows the reasoning involved in this heartbreaking decision. But, whatever the reason, there is forgiveness with the Lord. You can be a messenger of forgiveness to that one you know; or you can be the recipient of forgiveness if you are that one yourself! Jesus forgives, and He wants you to forgive yourself. Place that child afresh in the arms of the Lord, and then return from the altar to counsel another, to save a baby and a life from the destruction you have experienced. There is healing at the feet of Jesus. Bow there today and accept His forgiveness.
Child of sorrow...child of peace...we leave you in the arms of Jesus. You are safe, you are accepted, and you are loved.
--by Peggie C. Bohanon. Copyright 2003, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.
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