I've heard tidbits here and there from vigil participants that their times on the sidewalk have been going very well and smoothly. It seems this year the reactions from drivers have been more positive and encouraging than anything else. I think with the addition of the other 2 signs that offer help to pregnant women, and counseling for those hurt by abortion, it better communicates our love for people and desire to help them. I think it makes it harder for people to be upset with us. :-)
I've heard of and witnessed several good interactions and conversations. And I haven't heard of any more counter protesters since the 3 that came out last week.
One interaction that was shared with me was especially encouraging. This conversation occurred last Saturday afternoon, when Dana and her daughter-in-law Katie were out there. I love both of these women, and their tender hearts for the women affected by abortion in Lewis County.
Dana writes, "We've had such an amazing time so far standing at PP on Saturdays! Katie and I talked for 45 minutes with a young gal; the Lord was so present and we were grateful. The gal said she was just driving by & couldn't keep driving and felt she had to stop. So she pulled into the parking lot at PP. She left her van running with an adult in the front seat and two children in the back waiting the whole 45 minutes.
The girl was extremely polite, knowledgeable and intelligent. She grew up in a conservative Christian family who she claims was very closed minded. She had done extensive research on the issue of abortion, even read the entire New York bill! Her main points were that women have the right to their own bodies, men shouldn't be involved (in making these decisions or laws about abortion), and that we need more healthcare and education to solve problems instead of making abortion illegal. Katie and I were able to bring up several points of truth."
I'll interject here that Katie is actually 9 months pregnant and about to pop any day, so during the conversation, Dana told me she kept lovingly referring to the baby as separate from her, even with tears streaming down her face.
Dana continued to write, "The gal finally opened up, with tears streaming down her face, saying she was raped and kept her daughter (who was there in the car, and looked to be about 9 years old). When she opened up about her rape we expressed our compassion, and at the end we got her email to keep in touch"
I'm so thankful God gave them this opportunity to lovingly converse with her, sharing truth and compassion. Later on they had an interesting discussion about the Bible. They were able to share they believe the Lord speaks truth through His Word the Bible. The gal repeatedly said God gave Cain free will to slay Able which proves that God doesn't force anyone. So since God gave free will to humans then no human laws should take their free will. Therefore abortion should remain legal. Her logic said Cain had to answer to God for the blood on his hands.
Dana and Katie continued to listen and love her. Dana later wrote, "We thought it would be good to express more empathy and compassion and keep it short at first. Katie and I were saying how it would be nice to email, with better time to think between exchanges."
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. So proud of them and their hearts of love and compassion. There is a quote that has been on my mind and heart in recent weeks, and these girls nailed it. It goes like this.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou
Thank you Dana and Katie for your example of listening and loving well. May this be the heart of every interaction we have out there! And I must say, I'm continually so touched by the love and compassion each of you have out there. It's so beautiful to see people in our community being loved on by you all with every little interaction. Keep up the great work!
In other news, I was blessed this week with several emails and phone calls out of the blue from a couple new participants and churches wanting to mobilize. I've been so swamped this year, unable to reach out as much as I have in the past, so many of the volunteers have taken up my slack and been reaching out to their circles of influence. SO thankful for how God is working in and through you all, and continuing to grow this effort. To Him be the glory, and may He do great things through our presence and our prayers!
As for coverage, if you have not signed up already, we can use help Tuesday mornings, Thursday afternoons at 4 and 5, Friday afternoons at 2,3 and 4, and Sunday afternoons at 3,4 and 5. Folks are signing up online so those slots may change weekly. So check the online calendar here when you're able! 40 Days for Life - Centralia
Thank you all! May God continue to work in and through your presence and prayers.
"And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." - Matt 21:22
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