An Unplanned Pregnancy

What could he do? His girlfriend was now carrying someone else's child. They both knew that was the truth, and he was confused. It was her choice. Abortion wasn't an option for her. She was certain the baby deserved to live. But how could she walk this out?

People were talking, making the entire matter much harder than it had to be. But you know how people are! They love to gossip and slander and make themselves look better than others. Soon the news was everywhere, and people were looking at her growing belly. Even her relatives felt the need to comment on the situation. One woman even told her she knew this would happen. Can you picture yourself saying that to someone? Wow! What is it with people? God had been so gracious to this older woman in her own shame, taking it away, but she had to open her mouth and say something. The young woman's response to her was very gracious. She believed  even unplanned and unexpected events had a purpose. In an odd turn, the younger woman agreed to move in and help the older one who needed some special assistance. For three months, she stayed to help her. Imagine that!

Eventually, the couple both felt compelled to travel to his hometown. She was close to having the baby now. Flying wasn't an option, so they packed up their bags and took to the road. It was a long, hard trip. The countryside was beautiful, but then she went into labor. No one could help.  She delivered the baby, and they did the best they could to keep him warm and safe.

There were folks living in the fields nearby who worked in animal sciences. They'd heard about what had happened from someone they didn't expect. Even under the circumstances, the news hit that this was something to be glad about. 

"But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praying God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

(From the accounts in the books of Matthew and Luke. Copyright Mark Taft.)

Social Justice: Taking a Stand for Others

Have you ever read a book by a favorite author and you find everytime you read it, the same sentence can have a whole new impact on you? This has been happening to me recently. Listen to this: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Anyone who reads this blog knows that I am all for helping those around you and those less fortunate. I have been trying to live like this for years now, sometimes with more success than others. Hate seeing others abused and taken advantage of, especially children, who are the most defenseless and powerless in our world. 

Social justice is very important to the heart of God. Caring for the needs of others has always been a hallmark of a true Christ-follower. Serve, love, and support. Do what is right. The foundational core of social justice begins by defending the right of the unborn, the most defenseless humans of all. They have no voice, but we do. So do something; whatever you're lead to do. Use your voice to comfort, use your time to serve, use your prayers, use your vote- make a difference- but leave the violence and ugly words behind.