A Shame Free Sanctity of Life Day

Monday is National Sanctity of Human Life Day.  Celebrated on the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, this day brings out strong emotions on both sides of the issue.  This article isn’t about either side, but rather about women out there who, on this day, experience an intense reminder of the shame, regret and grief from an abortion. 
​
There are marches taking place this weekend across the country.  Tomorrow, many churches will have special programs or events to mark Sanctity of Life Sunday.  For many years, I’d refuse to go to church on this Sunday.  I was carrying the secret that I was sure no one else in that church shared.  To see the disgust on the faces of the congregation at the mention of the number of lost lives, was more guilt than I was willing to endure.   Undoubtedly, if you pay attention to many of the marches and demonstrations throughout the weekend you will see signs telling you that you will burn in hell, you are not worthy to be mothers, that you are a murderer.  I know that these comments make most of us more committed than ever to keep this part of our past a secret.  Please don’t mistake an imperfect human capacity for forgiveness and grace for the immeasurable, unconditional mercy and forgiveness of Christ.  He does not intend for you to shame and punish yourself for the rest of your life.

I know that this is not a quick fix.  For most of us, we’ve carried this burden of secrecy for years.  It is not as simple as just deciding to put it down and walk away.  It will follow you and find you until you let God work his healing.

There are so many resources out there to help you.  If you are in the Fredericksburg, VA area, you can message me for information on local Bible studies where groups of women work through their journey of being set free together.  There are organizations across the country where you can be connected to resources in your own home town.  Visit surrenderingthesecret.com or abortionhurtsgodheals.com.  There are books and resources out there that you can purchase on your own, but I urge you, please find a group.  I have led Bible studies for years and the comfort that women find from sharing their stories with other women who are experiencing the same things makes it worth taking that step to sign up for a group.