During the Christmas season we like to remember our martyrs, like St. Stephen, who was stoned to death defending Christ. But the first martyrs were children -- the Holy Innocents -- boys under two in Bethlehem who were massacred by Herod because he feared that a future King would supplant him.
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Children are especially vulnerable in our society. We fear that they will upset our lives. We are selfish. We want to have sex without consequences. And so a womb becomes a tomb. Let us pray to end abortion.
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I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life. Deuteronomy 30:19
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9 comments:
We just read this story to our kids the other night. I've been so emotional lately anyway, but it made me sob thinking of these mothers losing their little children. I hadn't thought about it from the perspective of abortion, but I think it is very applicable.
Of course, you know how kids are. After my husband read the story, they were eager to apply it to our family. "Mom, nobody would die in our family because Sophie's over two and she's a girl and our new baby will be a girl, too. And Gabe's a boy, but he's too old." This seemed to give them great relief!
On a lighter note, I was reading Highlights magazine this morning and saw a story written by Vijaya Bodach. Is that you? (I wasn't sure how many Vijayas there were writing for children!) :)
Take care - and happy new year!
Amy
Oh, it is you! I just found the link to your website. Fun! I can't wait to tell my kids I "know" you. :)
Amy
Aw, Amy, this story must've been hard for you given you're so close to giving birth. I always thought that Mary grieved for those other mothers as well, for their empty arms.
Yes, children love to apply these stories to their own circumstances and your kiddos are so young and sweet. All safe! Mine are a bit older and know about death by abortion (not the details), so they made the connection right away because that is the greatest threat to life.
And yes, I do write about light topics like the Teeter Totter ... thanks for noticing.
Rest easy, Amy. The New Year is almost here, and with it, your new baby.
Great post! Very well put and the picture is chilling, as it should be. Something like that shouldn't be candy coated.
(((hugs))) from some of the other replies it looks like you've gone through something recently traumatic yourself. many ((((hugs)))) to you and may 2011 bring you much health, happiness and joy.
What a riveting picture. Great art disturbs, as it should. I pray it prevents us from becoming inured to the history just because it's ancient.
What a great post. I pray that these reflections you post have an impact on women who are contemplating abortion and decide to choose LIFE. Children are our greatest gift from God.
God Bless you always.
Thanks Christy. I try to choose beautiful and provocating art. I'm glad it spoke to you. Yes, it's been a tough year healthwise, but I am on the mend with love and prayers from far and wide. Thank you for your good wishes.
Marcia, as always, we can learn so much from history. But never before are babies dying as they are dying now ...
Suman, I hope. Bless you for the work you do with young mothers.
Merry Christmas and a Happy new Year to you Vijaya!
Best,
Suma.
Suma, thank you for stopping by. Wishing you a wonderful New Year too.
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