โThen God said, โLet Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness โฆโโ (Genesis 1:26a)
From the very first man that God created, we recognize the sanctity of life. When we understand how God views human life, we recognize that abortion is not simply a political issue; it concerns children created in the image of God. With that in mind, we should pay attention to what is happening in our nation, specifically within the state of Massachusetts.
On Monday, August 10th, Massachusetts took a dramatic step in expanding abortion access when Governor Maura Healey signed House Bill 5595 into law, eliminating the stateโs previous 24-week limit. The law removes the specific restrictions that previously governed abortions later in pregnancy. Under the new law, there is no longer a cutoff for how late in pregnancy an abortion may be performed. Because of this, Massachusetts now permits abortion throughout pregnancy, potentially up to the moment of birth.
โItโs spiritual darkness in a world that is becoming comfortable in celebrating darkness,โ exclaimed Victoria Dean, the executive director of the Womenโs Center at Calvary Chapel Old Bridge (CCOB), NJ, pastored by Lloyd Pulley.
CCOB offers free confidential pregnancy services, such as ultrasounds through their Womenโs Center ministry. Since 2019, over 2,500 babies have been saved from abortions in this ministry. They extend an alternative to women contemplating abortions and give them a glimpse of the value and sanctity of their babies’ lives.
The law was celebrated by supporters at the signing ceremony, where women applauded and gathered around Governor Healey as she signed the measure. As Christians, we should pray for the salvation of those who supported the law, as Isaiah 5:20 states, โWoe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!โ
This reaction also grieved Victoria, who said, โI think I was most taken back by the women that were joyful over the ability to commit murder.โ
Pray for the unborn children whose lives are now especially vulnerable. Pray for mothers and fathers that they would receive support from the Church and choose life. Pray that other states would take a stand against abortion. Pray for Christians and churches in Massachusetts to stand against this evil. As Proverbs 31:8 says, โOpen your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die.โ
The battle over abortion is also spiritual. Scripture warns that there is an enemy who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. Yet Scripture also reminds us of the hope found in Jesus Christ, who came to give life.
โThe thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.โ (John 10:10)
