by Debra Niesen
After all the inspiring January pro-life marches and events, I was able to catch up on one of my favorite podcasts, “Abiding Together,” with Sister Miriam James Heidland.
If you haven’t already, take a listen. The recent “Salt and Light” episode made me think about many of you and the pro-life movement in Kansas.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others . . . and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt 5: 14-16).
Our work to protect preborn children and expectant women from the harms and despair of abortion had a major setback last August. Abortions are now increasing, women are coming from out of state to end the life of their child, and existing laws that protect babies and women’s safety are being sued by the abortion industry and blocked by our courts. These are challenging times in Kansas.
What struck me in the podcast was the statement: “It is in the darkest times that our light shines the brightest.” How true that is! Instead of hiding our light after the amendment defeat, we came to Topeka in greater numbers than before, to publicly pray and march for the dignity of life. Thank you to all who were there.
At the IGNITE for Life rally, we celebrated “life heroes” — those who sacrifice to help or even save another who is vulnerable.
Life heroes are those, like our IGNITE keynote speaker Lila Rose, who worked tirelessly to defend the unborn over the past 50 years and finally saw Roe fall.
They are those, like Austin and Mary Kate Krause, who face overwhelming fear and challenges yet still cherish the gift of life. Their son Joseph’s life, though brief, has infinite value and is still making a profound impact today.
Life heroes are those who unselfishly give of themselves to save babies and assist women in need. Pregnancy support employees and volunteers are lights to so many who yearn to hear, “Your life matters. Your baby’s life matters. We will help.”
One of the reasons we invited Lila Rose to speak was to highlight the many LiveAction.org videos of life stories that are a light and inspiration to others.
We especially pray for those with life stories that include walking the path of abortion. We pray you find healing in Jesus’ love. If you haven’t already, join us in this noble movement. Your story matters and your light is needed.
Keep going, pro-life Kansas! Let your light shine for others.
