This morning, at 10 AM EST, the US Supreme Court ruled to overturn Roe v. Wade by a 6-3 decision. The decision was handed down amid substantial controversy after the illegal leak of the opinion several weeks ago. Since 1973, abortion has been considered a constitutional right in the US, but the decision now moves that choice to the individual states to decide.
I must say that waking up to this news splashed across the internet was one of the most joyful and encouraging things that has happened politically in recent years. Abortion is a wicked wrong in our nation, and the fact that there will be less access to abortion in certain states is a great blessing.
The decision is also one of the most polarizing in recent years. The internet is filled with cries of joy and cries of lamentation, depending on who is speaking. Politicians, actors, pundits and the like are all expressing their opinions, and often in the most vehement ways.
But what should our response be as Christians?
First, I hope that your heart is rejoicing at this step in the right direction for protecting the lives of the unborn. I hope that you are filled with thanksgiving to God for this decision that will undoubtedly lessen the number of infants who are mercilessly killed in our nation.
But second, I hope that we, as Christians, will take this opportunity to pray for those around us who disagree. The polarization around this issue can cause an even more complex situation for the Gospel. Those who believe in abortion as a constitutional right will be even more hardened by the decision to turn from anything that even begins to sound anti-abortion.
But the biggest problem for these neighbors of ours is not their support of abortion, nor is it any other political position, regardless of how sinful it may be. Instead, the biggest problem for everyone on both sides of this debate is where they stand before God—whether they have truly trusted in Christ for their salvation, or not.
In the coming weeks as this decision unfolds, we’ll see more and more videos of angry protestors and rejoicing protestors. Regardless of who you see, I hope your heart will pray for them. Pray that they would not be confused about what is the primary need in their lives. Pray that they would understand that abortion isn’t the main issue, but that Jesus is.
And, I hope that as Christians, we will seek to limit the vitriol that will inevitably spill all over the internet. I pray that we’ll protect the Gospel, and show Christ to our neighbors by our attitudes.
