I usually don’t write posts about politics and/or controversial topics. Roe v Wade has weighed so heavy on my heart and in my spirit this week. Maybe I should say the way the church has handled the topic has weighed heavy on my heart and in my spirit.

I’m sitting here staring at my curser trying to figure out how to put my feelings and thoughts into words. I have never been in a position to make a decision to end a pregnancy. I cannot imagine the emotions that accompany that path. Because I’ve not lived in those circumstances, I’ve tried to be very careful with how I react to RvW. I’ve carefully guarded my reactions and my words.

I do believe that life begins at conception. I also believe that abortion has more layers than just being “right” or “wrong.”

I don’t care what “side” you’re on. If we identify as Christ-followers, we are called to love our neighbor as ourself (Matthew 22:35-40). Jesus said this was one of the most important commandments. Scrolling thru social media, I’m not seeing very much love. I’m seeing memes of unborn fetuses and comments about women being “murderers.” I’m seeing a LOT of celebration with little to zero regard for those who may be sitting at home (or in a pew) in a puddle of tears because they chose to end their pregnancy. Or maybe they’re considering it now.

If you’re ecstatic about Roe v Wade being overturned, that’s okay. It’s okay to whisper a prayer of thanks and pray that abortion statistics drop. But put down your sign. Think twice before posting the meme. And for the love of God, STOP calling women murderers! You’re not “winning” souls or growing the Kingdom. Quite the opposite. People are running in the other direction. In the culture we live in, “pro-life” has adopted a bad reputation.

I’m calling myself pro-grace.

Watching how closely intertwined Christianity and politics has become is alarming to me. I was listening to a sermon online yesterday. The pastor was not able to preach because he has COVID. He wanted to address the congregation in light of the events this past week, so he wrote them a letter. One thing he said caused me to press pause and grab a pen.

He went on to quote Dr. Gerald Sittser, “Power at the expense of the Gospel is not a power the church should ever seek.”

Maybe Christians could be a little less obsessed with “winning” and a little more compassionate when it comes to the feelings and experiences of others.

That applies to much more than just abortion.