The Struggle Against Abortion Isn't One Big Institutional Battle

Mike Cosper:

The struggle against abortion isn’t one big institutional or governmental battle; it’s 1.2 million small battles annually. It’s a battle for the hearts and consciences of mothers who feel like abortion is their only option. Often, they are overwhelmed by the prospect of a child, the pressures of poverty, and an ignorance of the resources available to help with the medical costs and the needs of a newborn. They face pressure from family members and the gaping absence of fathers. At its core, abortion is a selfish and sinful decision, but it’s one made all the easier by desperation (“I have no options”) and propaganda (“it’s a woman’s right to choose” or “it’s your body”). 

In the face of such pressure, women don’t need an ad campaign or a political movement. They need a friend. They need someone to make themselves available, providing avenues to resources and hope.

Two Beautiful Examples

In my own city, this battle is being led groups like A Woman’s Choice, Necole’s Place, and Scarlet Hope. These organizations aren’t led by politicians or lobbyists. They aren’t political action groups. You don’t really need any special training to help them in their cause. They show up in the lives of women who are in trouble and they offer love, grace, help and the hope of the gospel. 

Over the years, A Woman’s Choice has seen countless women choose life. They’ve shuddered abortion clinics. They’ve provided medical care, facilitated adoptions, and educated mothers in need of help through Necole’s Place. I would daresay they’ve done far more to end abortion in Louisville than any politician.

In a somewhat different vein, Scarlet Hope has been serving our city by helping women who work in the sex industry. They show up in clubs, serve meals, share the gospel, and offer help. Women are leaving that predatory world and finding hope in Christ.

The soldiers in this battle are mostly women. Some of them look a lot like my mother. Their weapons are casseroles and sweet tea. The workers of Scarlet Hope sit in the green rooms of strip clubs, fixing the worker’s hair, praying for their children, and quietly opening the exit door to club life. At A Woman’s Choice, they provide ultrasounds and medical care. More than that, they provide a listening ear and a caring presence. It’s a classic example of the subversive power of the gospel; the battle against Satan, sin and death being waged by church ladies bearing cupcakes and Mary Kay.

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