Last month our youth group was challenged to give "Change for Change" in our "Be The Change" series. Rich and I had talked beforehand about who God had placed on our heart and without hesitation we both came to the conclusion that we would love to bless a family in our church who's son needed yet another heart surgery at the tender age of 3. His name is Micah Ward and he not only rocks a sweet and courageous spirit, but also an extra chromosome. This beautiful little boy is one of the many in this great nation who was born with down syndrome.
I can't imagine the feelings an expectant mother would feel when being told that her child would be born with special needs or even the pressure she would face from well meaning doctors who think that they can "solve the problem" by terminating a life. I can't imagine the hardships not only financially but in so many other areas that raising this child would bring. But I can tell you that I am so thankful for families who rise to the occassion to show the world how incredibly beautiful life can be when you have a child with down syndrome. These families are my heroes.
This past month was such a blessing for my husband and I not only because we were able to "share the burden" (like I talked about in my last post) but also because we had the opportunity to see students go above and beyond to help someone in need. Whoever said that teenagers were selfish, never met the teenagers we have the opportunity of seeing on a weekly basis! One jr higher sold an iPod that she had won to help raise money while another student had spent the entire month collecting cans, raising almost half of the contest money herself. These teenagers are some of the best around. I am so thankful to be their youth pastor. These students are my heroes.
I don't know what causes you to rise up and speak out but abortion is one of those topics that makes me well up in tears and clench my fists at the same time. Whether your child would have a special need or not, it is a baby, a gift from the Lord Himself and there is nothing "wrong" with them. Whether you or a friend have dealt with this issue I pray that you fight against the cultural pressures of abortion and see the situation as God sees it. There are options my friends, and abortion isn't one of them. You can do it, I promise that you can do it! And if raising this child is out of the question, I know so many loving familes that would be more than thrilled to welcome them into their home. Please, I beg of you, give this precious little one a chance.
This morning my husband and I watched a touching story about a father who faced all of the pressures known to those who have children with down syndrome and I couldn't help but cry (to watch his heart wrenching interview, click on the link here...Pushing Paisley... A father's story). This amazing little girl was given a chance, despite her father's wishes, and an amazing story was birthed out of it. I know this post is different from most that I have written but I believe with all of my heart that God has called us to speak for those who can't. I challenge you to find a cause and fight for it! It has been said that "all it takes for evil to succeed is for good men (or women) to do nothing". So... Let's DO SOMETHING!!!!
Hebrews 13:16
And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need.
These are the sacrifices that please God.
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