After every ultrasound we offer the expectant mom a handmade gift for their baby which is usually a pair of baby booties but sometimes we receive handmade hats to offer as well. Most moms excitedly choose their gift, carefully picking up each pair and examining them perhaps thinking, “Do I pick pink or purple because I’m hoping for a girl?” “But what if it’s a boy?” “What about gender neutral?” “Maybe gray would be better.” Once a decision has been made, they usually turn over and gingerly admire the tiny pair of baby booties in the palm of their hand. Some smile with joy, and others cry, overwhelmed with the emotion that comes from expecting a new baby.
But there are also the mothers that may not even look at this gift offered and refuse it altogether. Perhaps it is because this mom is struggling with a decision of choosing abortion and the booties may never be used or they will end up being a constant reminder of a baby they never even met.
Sometimes, I wonder about the booties not chosen to be placed on the tiny feet of a sweet newborn and especially the mothers now mourning the loss of their child through abortion. I think about those who regret their decision made because they found themselves in a dark place in life where it seemed to be no hope for their future with a baby and they thought the only answer was to end the pregnancy. It truly breaks my heart to know there are women who bought the lie that abortion was the only answer and gave into the pressures of their circumstances.
Abortion isn’t just a choice that ends a baby’s life, it also alters the course of the mother’s life forever. This is why our ministry at Radiance is so important. We present mothers with hope and love, and ultimately point them to the One who first loved us. We are a ministry for those who are contemplating a pregnancy decision and also for those who have experienced an abortion in their past.
…and the baby booties…whether chosen or not are a reminder to me the importance of praying for each and every woman we serve knowing they are loved by our Creator God.
Yours in Christ,
Lindsay