J.M.J. Those who
have long worked for the protection of innocent human life—particularly that of
preborn children—will testify to the many and varied vicissitudes that the
pro-life movement has endured for over four decades.
A
significant gain (e.g., the revelation of fresh, hard medical data confirming
the unique individuality of a tiny fetus) by the right-to-life forces is always
the cause of great hope, while a setback (e.g., the election of a pro-abortion
president or other pro-abortion officeholders) gives rise to feelings of
discouragement. In 2016, we observe how the pro-death forces,
represented by Planned Parenthood and Emily’s List among others, tout as future
stars new, young candidates for public office who unabashedly
trumpet their support for abortion-on-demand.
The
essential, critical spiritual component of this notable and sacred pro-life
work, however, urges all those involved in what is inarguably a Herculean
struggle of unquestionable import to remember that while successes and failures
will inevitably occur, the Creator of all life wants above all else that
defenders of life continue to do the best they possibly can. The often-quoted
statement of Blessed Mary Teresa of Calcutta (+1997) rings true and is applicable
here: “God doesn’t necessarily desire that we be successful; He always desires
that we be faithful.”
Our Lady, the Queen of Life, is the Mother of all those who seek justice for those who are left out. No wonder that her powerful intercession is our strength.
The history
of the Church is full of one example after another of heroic men and women,
boys and girls who outwardly seemed to fail; yet, inwardly these same stalwarts
enjoyed the height of sanctity, thanks to their persistent, grace-inspired
efforts to effect change in almost impossible situations.
It is only
the strength of the Lord that keeps all those fighting to defend human life on
the proverbial “even-keel”: avoiding the giddiness of certain victories, while
simultaneously refusing to submit to despondency because of defeat.
To remain
convinced of God’s assistance in the midst of this “spiritual warfare”—that
ferocious conflict between the forces of good and evil—is absolutely paramount.
Otherwise, the darkness of believing that one has been abandoned is sure to set
in.
Our ceaseless
efforts—regardless of the goal—are only as good as our prayer. Work without
spiritual backing is bound to miss the mark that it would reach if nourished by
communion with the Redeemer.
When fed by
intimate, humble contact with the Savior, our works become enlivened by divine
grace. Then, they are not just good “human” acts but also “supernatural” acts
that please God and have beneficial effects in the spiritual realm as well as
the earthly, material sphere.
Consistent,
prayerful labors are required to assure the protection of preborn babies. God
will surely not forget to bless and multiply the good deeds of all those who
seek to be faithful to the noble aim of helping those who cannot help
themselves.
The forty-third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s disastrous Roe v. Wade decision
legalizing abortion serves as a clarion call to all those connected to the holy
mission of defending life: remember your origin and source! God alone through Our Lady will
secure the victory so ardently sought. Immersed in prayer, sacrifice and
unrelenting work, the faithful will be rewarded by the Almighty—Who still is in
charge.
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