Extract
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he forewarned the disciples about some of the things that would happen to them. He said, “The hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God.” (John 16:2)
Thought
Today, people continue to give the same reason for executing Christians and Christian Leaders. They say they are making a “Worship offering to their god,” or they claim the person committed apostasy – they left another religion for Christianity!
How very, very sad! God does not condone the reckless taking of a life that He created.
Reflection
Lord Jesus, heal the broken-hearted,
comfort the families torn by conflict and war;
strengthen our brave Church Leaders.
Prayer: Unborn Child
Almighty God, our Father,
you who have given us life
and intended us to have it forever,
grant us your blessings.
Enlighten our minds to an awareness
and to a renewed conviction
that all human life is sacred
because it is created
in your image and likeness.
Help us to teach by word
and the example of our lives
that life occupies the first place,
that human life is precious
because it is the gift of God
whose love is infinite.
Give us the strength to defend human life
against every influence
or action that threatens or weakens it,
as well as the strength
to make every life more human
in all aspects.
Give us the grace…
When the sacredness of life
before birth is attacked,
to stand up and proclaim
that no one ever has the authority
to destroy unborn life.