Ridgell's Originals

As a Christian I do not endorse abortion.

I believe God values life and I must too.  Christians have always been the ones to stand for those unable to stand for themselves.  We are a voice for the voiceless.  We protect the helpless.  

And I understand why some choose death over life.  

An unexpected child is life changing.  So many plans now unworkable.  Dreams shattered.    

For poor people, the financial implications are enormous.  The emotional burden is heavy.

For Christians, it can be spiritually devasting.  The guilt and shame.

Pregnancy is the consequence of sex.  It may be seen as an unwanted intrusion into the life you choose to lead.  It may be the result of one-time "we got carried away."  

I know the consequences are often borne primarily by the mother, not the father.  In fact, very little attention is ever given to the father.  Physical and financial involvement, but little concern for the emotional and spiritual impact on the man.

But I do not believe hard consequences justify sin.

But I do not want this to turn into a political discussion.

I do want Christians to think about our response -- responsibility -- in these situations.  Because if we are going to oppose abortion, we better be willing to put our lives where our sermons are.

We need to teach more about what the Bible says about marriage.  About sex.  About lust.  And about holiness.  Those are awkward conversations.  These will be against what our culture teaches.

We must provide real community for the single Moms and the poor among us.  Take a look at most of our churches.  We talk about this.  We do not do this.

We must be there for the sinner.  Forgiveness is real.  It must be modeled and taught.  

We have to be there to help deal with the consequences.  Emotional support.  Financial support.  Spiritual care.  Physical care.

I do not think voting the "right" way is the highest call of the Christian.  It might be the least important thing we do.  

I think financial support for organizations that are on the front lines is impotant.  Marsha and I give to at least three organizations that do this.  Our Jamie works in one of these.  

But the real need is to get involved.  Get in people's lives.  That is what church really is.

So talk all you want.  Post on facebook or write a blog.  Vote.  Give.  

But be there.  Adopt.  Foster.  Do life with the hurting.  Forgive, pray, counsel, support.  

It is not enough to denounce the sin.  

We need to live grace with the sinners.  

They are us.    

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM