As a post-abortive person, Christmas can sometimes become a struggle. There are so many messages out there celebrating the coming of our Savior into the world. Other messages herald our Lady's courage in saying "yes" under extreme circumstances - a very Pro Life message, indeed. The ultimate one, in fact. However, when we fail to forgive ourselves and permit God's love to shine upon us, then these messages can be daggers to the heart instead of the hope-filled ones intended. To some, it can become devastating, causing further retreat into oneself. So, what do we do?
We pray.
We remember that Christ came for ALL OF US and He came most especially for the sinners. He came because there was much work to be done and much that needed redemption. He did not come for the righteous, but for the opposite. He came to be the hand that reached out to us when we fell.
It can be particularly easy to further punish ourselves during these times of year. Especially when families are gathered and we look around a room that should be filled with one or more additional voices. Voices that we ended before they spoke a single word. The pain of acknowledging that is difficult on any normal day...it is excruciating on days like these. I speak to each of you as someone who knows the pain and suffering, personally. I ask you to turn toward God's light rather than away. I humbly beg that you listen not to the self-hating or denying voice of Satan who only wants you to continue running from God's loving embrace.
Remember, especially today, He came for us! All He is waiting for is you to turn to Him and give Him the pain you carry.
His love is capable of overcoming all fear, doubt, anger, sorrow, despair, hurt, fury, denial, and self-loathing.
Nothing is too powerful for Him. All you need to do is ask it of Him and it shall be done.
Let this Christmas be one of hope and release from captivity. Allow Christ to fulfill His promise to you and let go of the shadowy darkness that has followed you for so long. God is with us, always. Especially in our pain. He is awaiting us at every turn. He loves us so much, He gave His only begotten son. Is there really anything we could do to be unworthy of Him now?
The answer to that is simple...no.
Peace and blessings to you all. I pray you have a Merry Christmas and receive God's mercy and love every day of your lives.
Beautiful, Christine. This is all so true. When we admit our sin, we make contact again with God.
ReplyDeleteOur errors in judgment have much in common with many sins. We think we can hide them, but they still remain, unless we confront ourselves and change our thinking, and realize our mistakes. Then we can move on, be healed and begin to heal others. Praise God!
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful words. Healing is something that eludes many who are post-abortive. Some lose hope and others feel unworthy. It is a terrible state in which to exist. That is why Rachel's Vineyard is so important. It is the link between them and their lost hope. It helps people let go of much more than the abortion, but also whatever factors played into making the choice of abortion. The weekend retreat changed my life and for that, I am ever grateful. Peace.
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