For You From The Word
Who are you to judge your neighbor? (James 4:12, NIV)
For You To Think About
Anna and her baby just after birth on Independence Day
When Anna Mather became pregnant with her first child out of wedlock, she was asked to apologize to her congregation and leave the choir.
“Being judged was hard,” says Anna. Those wounds opened up again when Anna became pregnant with her second child. She is not married to her baby’s father. Anna’s friends turned their backs on her when they discovered she was pregnant. Her daughter was mocked at school.
When Anna opted for a home birth the second time around, supportive midwives provided encouragement she needed.
Her son was born early in the morning of July 4, 2011.
“I’ve lost many friends and my family is still uncomfortable, but I’m looking at this birth as a healing,” said Anna, of her son’s arrival on Independence Day. “Part of my progress through life is to listen to myself and give myself value.”
For You To Pray
Loving Father,
Forgive us for passing judgement on women who face an unplanned pregnancy. Move our hearts to show compassion and support.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.