by Pastor Paul Clark, President of Lutherans For Life of Michigan
Ernest Hemingway, in his novel The Sun Also Rises, has this exchange between two characters, Bill Gorton and Mike Campbell:
“How did you go bankrupt?” Bill asked.
“Two ways,” Mike said. “Gradually and then suddenly.”
Many people wonder how our culture has sunk to such low levels as it has, with the attack on the sanctity of human life, the way many look at unborn babies as disposable, the acceptance by some of physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia, and of course, the ever-increasing attacks on traditional marriage and gender identity as male and female, as God created them.
How did this all happen? Of course, the answer is: Gradually, and then suddenly.
For years and years, those who oppose God and His Word have chipped away at such values as the right to life and traditional marriage and family structure. Then, in swift blows, things came tumbling down suddenly. And many are dazed and wonder how it could all happen so quickly.
But in the same way, we can rebuild a culture of life. We have been doing that—gradually—over many years, with our pro-life efforts at changing minds, combatting the lies, electing pro-life officials, and supporting women and their babies in their time of need.
Now, with the coming release of the Supreme Court Dobbs decision in June, we may have things going much more “suddenly.” If the court would overturn, or even weaken, Roe v. Wade, that would be wonderful news for our dear unborn children! But even then, there will continue to be a state-by-state battle for life. So, we must not weaken. We must not falter. The Lord of Life is with us in this battle!
For all who have been damaged by the sin of abortion—and for all who have been complicit by not speaking up in defense of innocent babies—repent, and then hear the sweet and comforting words of Jesus:
“Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
God give us courage to engage in the battle For Life!